The
High Court of Justiciary is situated on the eastern most section of the Lawnmarket, part of Edinburgh's Royal Mile, on the corner of Bank Street.
This is Scotland’s supreme criminal court, serving both criminal trials and appeals. Appeals are heard from the High Court, together with Sheriff Courts and Justice of the Peace Courts.
Built originally as Edinburgh's Sheriff Courthouse in 1934-37, the interior of this Neo-Georgian building was remodelled and converted in 2000 to house the High Court.
Use the
journey planner for public transportation information.
By bus:
Several bus routes pass near to the High Street including LRT buses 3, 7, 14, 23, 27, 30, 33, 35, 41, 42, 45 and 49. For up to date timetables or to plan your journey visit www.lothianbuses.com or use the journeyplanner www.travelinescotland.co.uk.By rail:
The nearest train station is Waverley Station, approximately a ten minute walk. Visit scotrail or national rail enquiries national rail enquiries for train times.By car:
There are no parking facilities at the High Court of Justiciary. The surrounding streets are “yellow lined” or have only restricted parking. If you come by car, leave sufficient time to find an all-day parking place or use the car park finder.By air:
The nearest airport is Edinburgh Airport (approximately 7 miles). There is a direct airport bus which arrives at Waverley Bridge. From there, the court building is a ten minute walk. For up to date
bus timetables or visit
journey planner.
On arrival, please report to reception. You will be directed from there to where you need to go in the building. To enter the building you will be asked to pass through airport type screening and your bags or briefcases will be searched.
If you are attending for jury duty please come to the main reception where you will be directed to where you need to go in the building
Wheelchair users can access the building through the main reception.
If you have any specific access arrangements please contact 0131 240 6751.
There is a restaurant located in the Supreme Courts, Parliament House (behind St. Giles Cathedral) on Level -1 which provides meals and light refreshments. This is open from 09:00-15:15 Monday, Tuesday and Thursday and 09:00-14:00 Wednesday and Friday. There are a number of local cafes and restaurants near to the court building.
If you are chosen to sit on a jury, lunch and refreshments will be provided for you if the court sits into the afternoon.
A loop induction service is available in all courtrooms for people who have hearing difficulties. Please contact the Administration Unit on 0131 240 6751 if you require to use this facility.
Opening Times
Mon - Thu 09:00-17:00 (switchboard from 08:45)
Fri 08:45-16.45
Please note the main office which serves the court is Justiciary Office which is based based in Parliament House (behind St. Giles Cathedral) on Level -2
Office opening times:
Mon 10:30-17:00
Tue - Thu 09:00-17:00
Fri 09:00-16:45
Public Holidays
2012
December 3, 24*, 25, 26
2013
January 1, 2
March 29
April 1, 15
May 6, 20
September 16
December 2, 24*, 25, 26
* half day
You do not pay a fine at this court.