The Combined Law Courts
Lewes Combined Court, 182 High Street, Lewes, East Sussex, BN7 1YB
The building, which was designed by John Johnson in the classical style, and was built in Portland stone between 1808 and 1812. The design for the building involved a symmetrical main frontage of five bays facing the High Street; the central section of three bays featured a recess with six Doric order columns supporting the upper floors; there were casement windows on the first floor and flanking wings which slightly projected forwards. Above the first floor windows were reliefs carved in coade stone which depict Wisdom, Justice and Mercy. The building was extended by two bays to the east in a similar style later in the 19th century. The interior reflects both Georgian and Victorian architectural styles. The Victorian court rooms have natural daylight, via pavement lights above the stained glass clerestories, and many other original features have been retained.
The building was known as 'County Hall' from an early stage. The county council moved to Pelham House in 1938, from when the building in Lewes High Street was used solely for accommodating the assize courts. Following the implementation of the Courts Act 1971, the former assizes court was re-designated Lewes Crown Court and forms part of the Lewes Combined Court Centre. It is a Grade II* listed building.
Timings & Tours
- Saturday 14 September:
- 10.00 to 14.30
Location & directions
Lewes Combined Court, 182 High Street, Lewes, East Sussex, BN7 1YB
- Directions:
- The combined courts are situated in the High Street approximately 100m to the east of the castle.
- Contact on day:
- Melanie Kill
- Telephone number:
- +447976766395
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
Please note that entry to the building will be subject to security checks and photography is restricted inside. Steps up to entrance of the building make access difficult for those with mobility issues.
