Old Bailey trivia

Old Bailey Mini Quiz

Test your knowledge with these top questions!

Question 1

The bronze Lady Justice statue atop London's Old Bailey famously lacks what common feature?

Unlike most depictions of Lady Justice, this 1906 statue remains unblindfolded because the sculptor felt her maidenly form already guaranteed impartiality.

Question 2

London's premier criminal court, the Old Bailey, takes its name from what historic city feature?

The court sits on the street of the same name, which traces the original path of London's ancient Roman defensive wall, known as a bailey.

Question 3

Court officials at the Old Bailey historically scattered sweet herbs near the dock to stop what?

Judges relied on strong-smelling herbs like rue to ward off "gaol fever," a deadly form of typhus that frequently spread from adjacent prisons.

Question 4

British legal authorities reserve the modern Old Bailey to try what specific type of cases?

Officially named the Central Criminal Court, this high-security venue handles Britain's most severe trials, such as murder and terrorism.