Free event to celebrate 300 years of The Old Courthouse in Antrim

To mark the tercentenary, the council has partnered with C21 Theatre Company and the PEACEPLUS Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), to bring the building’s history to life through a series of live courtroom re-enactments based on real cases from its past.

First built in 1726 for £150, The Old Courthouse is one of Antrim’s most famous historic landmarks. Over the centuries, it heard cases ranging from highway robbery and sheep stealing to public order offences, and harsh laws meant minor crimes could lead to prison, transportation, or even death.

The building served as an active courthouse until 1994. It was later bought by the council, who carefully restored it to its former glory and reopened the building to the public in 2010 as a popular community and arts venue.

During the Courtroom Rewind events, visitors can act as the jury while professional actors bring real local trials back to life. They will hear the evidence before it’s their turn to decide the verdict! Is the defendant guilty or not guilty?

The sessions take place at 10.30am, 11.40am, 1.10pm, 2.20pm and 3.30pm. Admission is free.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Henry Cushinan, said: "The Old Courthouse has been at the heart of Antrim’s history for 300 years. This event is a fantastic opportunity for families and history lovers to experience our local heritage in a fun, interactive way. We encourage everyone to come along and take their seat on the jury for what guarantees to be an entertaining day out."

The Old Courthouse’s Courtroom Rewind events are supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).