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Sunday 13 September 2026 | 10:30am, 11:30am, 2pm and 3pm
National Justice Museum
Tickets: Free (Pre-booking recommended)
Our trial re-enactments in our Victorian Courtroom are one of the highlights of our paid museum ticket. For Heritage Open Day, we’re delighted to open one of our rarely seen spaces to the public – our beautiful Civil Courtroom – for a family-friendly mock trial.
In 1812, at the Nottingham Assizes, William Carnell and Joseph Maples were charged with burglary and entering a dwelling house, as well as for breaking stocking frames. At just 16 years old, Joseph Maples was one of the youngest people arrested for this offence.
Frame breaking occurred after the introduction of machinery known as stocking frames to the knitting industry left many skilled workers facing unemployment. The lack of support from industry and government resulted in many workers taking direct action and smashing stocking frames in protest.
This Heritage Open Day, take part in an interactive re-enactment of Maple’s trial, and find out for yourself how skilled labourers took the threat to their livelihood into their own hands – and how the justice system treated them.
This interactive trial lasts 30 minutes. Please note this is a free event as part of the Heritage Open Day. Tickets do not allow access to the paid experience of the National Justice Museum.
| Heritage Open Days - Courtroom Trial (13 Sep 2026) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Day | Times | |
| Sunday | 10:00 | - 15:30 |
* 10:30am, 11:30am, 2pm and 3pm
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National Justice Museum, NottinghamMeet amazing, costumed characters from Nottingham's history in our Grade II* listed, Shire Hall. Explore the Victorian Courtroom, Georgian gaol, and ancient cells - all spread over five fascinating floors.
Heritage Open Days 2026Heritage Open Days is England's largest festival of history and culture. Every year in September, places across the country throw open their doors to celebrate their heritage, community and history. It’s your chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences – and it’s all FREE.
Family Day at Bromley House Library (Heritage Open Days)For this year's Heritage Open Day, Bromley House Library are opening their doors to children to explore the building and get hands on with heritage activities. Reserve free places now.
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