Kids go free at the National Justice Museum and City of Caves

Families planning a Nottingham staycation this summer can enjoy a great-value day out with under-15s visiting free at both the National Justice Museum and the City of Caves when accompanied by a paying adult or over-60 ticket holder.

From immersive courtroom trials and hands-on family activities to exploring the hidden world beneath Nottingham's streets, both attractions offer unforgettable experiences that bring the city's history to life.

The National Justice Museum, located in the former Shire Hall and County Gaol in Nottingham’s Lace Market, has recently been nationally recognised as one of the country’s leading visitor attractions, bringing home a Bronze Award in this year’s VisitEngland Awards for Excellence.

This summer's interactive courtroom performance transports visitors back to 1893, where Henry Marples and John Pinder stand trial following the death of a gamekeeper during a poaching incident on the Clifton estate. Visitors can take on the role of juror, witness or even defendant as they decide whether justice has been served. Will you end up in the dock?

Visitors can also witness one of Victorian England’s darker forms of justice – a public execution. On the stand is Sarah Barber, accused of poisoning her husband for his money. Did she really slip poison into his porridge, or was it just a terrible accident? More importantly, will her pardon arrive in time?

Further into the prison, meet the Victorian prison warden and discover the curious collection of Governor Brierley, whose mysterious objects reveal the fascinating stories of the gaol's former inmates.

Families can also get hands-on throughout the day, from handling genuine historical artefacts and sewing miniature Victorian mailbags to solving a forensic investigation using fingerprints and bloodstains. New for this summer, visitors can also explore the museum's Narrow Marsh exhibition, usually reserved for schools, and uncover what life was like in one of Victorian Nottingham's poorest neighbourhoods. 

Families can also continue their adventure beneath Nottingham's streets at the City of Caves, where they can explore the stories hidden underneath the city in Nottingham’s ancient sandstone caves.

Carved into the sandstone over hundreds of years, the caves have served many purposes throughout Nottingham's history, from medieval tanneries and wartime air raid shelters to homes and workplaces. Guided by expert storytellers, visitors will uncover the fascinating stories hidden beneath the city and discover a side of Nottingham many never knew existed.

With the caves staying a cool 14°C all year round, they're also the perfect place to escape the summer heat!

Victoria Reeves, CEO of the National Justice Museum said "Summer is all about creating memories together, and we wanted to make it easier for families to enjoy everything the museum has to offer. From interactive courtroom trials and Victorian prison life to hands-on activities and underground adventures, there's something to capture every imagination. We hope the free children's ticket offer helps even more families discover Nottingham's fascinating history together."

Whether stepping into a Victorian courtroom, solving a forensic mystery or venturing beneath Nottingham's streets to explore centuries of hidden history, families can enjoy a full day of adventure for less with this special summer offer.

The National Justice Museum is located on High Pavement in Nottingham’s Lace Market, and the City of Caves can be found at the bottom of Garner’s Hill Steps, next to Nottingham Contemporary. For opening times, tickets and event details, visit nationaljusticemuseum.org.uk.

T&C's: Offer valid between 11 July and 6 September 2026 only. Offer applies to tickets for children aged 5–15 when purchased with an equal number of paid Adult and/or Over 60s tickets.  The offer is not valid on tickets already purchased and has no cash value. Free child tickets issued under this offer are not eligible for an annual pass; accompanying paid Adult and Over 60s tickets remain eligible.