What's it like to stand inside the oldest magistrates' court in the country? In this episode, Melissa visits Derby Justice Centre, joined by senior legal advisor Glyn to explore the history of the Shire Hall, built in 1665.
Hear about its origins as a medieval court and public entertainment space, to its links with the Pentrich Martyrs and a hidden underground dungeon.
They also discuss the building's royal connections, its award-winning restoration, and how centuries of history sit alongside modern courtrooms still in use today.
https://insidehmcts.blog.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/171/2026/09/Derby-Historic-court-building-25-September-edit.mp3Listen to the latest episode now, available wherever you get your podcasts from!
A transcript of the podcast is also available.
seen at 10:39, 28 September in Inside HMCTS.