I have been trying in vain to organise a trip to these old city-centre courts for some time. So, when a fellow explorer asked for suggestions for a last-minute expedition around that part of the country I wasted no time suggesting we finally give it a go.

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Agreeing to meet the others at the site, I faced a through-the-night cycle, coach ride and very long walk but, when you want a place as much as I wanted this one it seems like a fair trade-off. On top of this, those familiar with this building will know that, getting inside requires nerves of steel as it is about the least discrete route in as can be imagined. I bruised and scraped myself rotten and was less than graceful but it was certainly worth all the trouble, I hope you’ll agree.

Courts

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The large waiting hall for Court One.

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…and Court One’s grand enterance

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More of a cupboard than a room, really

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Back Offices

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Clock Tower

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Cells & Basement

As I ventured down into the depths of the basement sounds of the early morning city street made it’s way through grates and vents. This was a stark contrast to the usual eerie silence experienced in the more out-of-the way asylums and factories.

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Lockdown

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The Cells

I hope you enjoyed the tour.

MrD