St George's Hall Heritage Centre
St. George's Hall Visitor Centre in Liverpool's William Brown Street conservation area, provides visitors with an exciting introduction to St George’s Hall and its place in Liverpool’s history.
The foundation stone of the building was laid in 1838 to commemorate the coronation of Queen Victoria. It first opened its doors to the public in 1854. The architect responsible for the bulk of the design was Harvey Lonsdale Elmes. The Crown Court is situated at the southern end of the building and was Liverpool's only criminal court until 1984 when criminal proceedings moved to Queen Elizabeth II law courts.
During the first decade of the twenty first century a major restoration of the hall took place which cost £23 million.
Throughout the hall's Heritage Centre, imaginative exhibitions, reconstructions and hands-on activities bring the story of St George’s Hall alive. Visitors can follow in the steps of the prisoners, from prison cell to the dock. Interactive hand-held units provide a range of themed tours.
Key features of the Heritage Centre include:-
*The original south entrance hall on St John's Lane, designed by Harvey Lonsdale Elmes, but never before used by the public.
*Opportunities to visit the cells used by prisoners awaiting trial.
*The newly refurbished Criminal Court and Judge’s Robing Room.
*Glimpses of the unique ventilation system designed by Dr David Boswell Reid.
*A learning suite for school parties.
*A Community Room entitled ‘World Heritage-Your Heritage’ where local groups can exhibit work.
*A new accessible viewing gallery for the Great Hall.
Entrance to St. George's Hall is free.
Directions
From the South:- Follow the M6 north to junction 21A, turning left onto the M62 in the direction of Liverpool. At the end of the M62 (the Rocket) follow signs for the city centre until you pick up signs for the Walker Art Gallery.
From the North:- Take the M6 to junction 26 and then follow signs for the M58 motorway to Liverpool. Continue to the end of the motorway, then follow signs for the A59 to Liverpool. Follow A59 City Centre until you pick up signs for the St. George's Hall.