History

The Old Courtroom was designed by Charles Sorby in 1868. It was opened as a Court House on 3 July 1869, and remained as a County Court House until 1967 when East Sussex County Council Library Service took over the running of the building.

In 1997 the ownership was transferred to Brighton & Hove Council. The Old Courtroom was then used as a store room for Brighton Museum & Art Gallery. Following the Museum’s refurbishment in 2002, the items in store were re-located and the work began on the restoration.

The restoration of the building has involved extensive repairs to the stonework, the replacement of many broken leaded windows and the complete refurbishment of the interior space.

Events

Lunchtime Lectures

The Old Courtroom offers a regular programme of Lunchtime Lectures presented by Brighton & Hove Museums.

All lectures take place from 1-2pm and tickets cost £4.50 per person.
Tickets available on the door or telephone 01273 292797 to book in advance.

Thursday 10 April
Loving the Modern World
Art historian Gavin Byman traces a history of Modernism in Brighton from Embassy Court to Lambrettas and beyond.

Thursday 17 April
Coco Chanel and the Little Black Dress
In 1926 Gabrielle 'Coco' Chanel launched the 'Little Black Dress', simple, elegant, affordable and versatile. Find out about this pioneering French fashion designer and her impact on 20th century haute couture.
Adrien Joly Interpretation Officer

Functions

The Old Courtroom can also be hired for Functions.  Please contact the Functions Team for information on 01273 292813/5 or email the Functions team here