The 10 Best Government Buildings in United Kingdom, United Kingdom

Most of this iconic building was built in the mid-19th century following a devastating fire in 1834. Westminster Hall survived the fire and dates from 1097. All visits are currently suspended. For the latest updates and online content, please go to the website and sign-up to the e-newsletter.

At the centre of Donegall Square proudly stands City Hall; the civic headquarters of Belfast City Council. City Hall is open to the public 7 days a week. It is a multi-purpose venue hosting a large number of events in its large functions rooms or outdoors on the beautiful lawns. Daily tours of the building allow visitors to admire the superb art collection, formal rooms such as the Council Chamber and Great Hall while its opulent interiors are lit by a stunning collection of stained glass windows. Guests can relax and refresh in the Bobbin Coffee Shop or pick up souvenirs in the Gift Shop. A 16 room visitor exhibition explores the history of the city through themed and interactive displays. City Hall grounds are the primary green space in Belfast City Centre and host continental markets and open air concerts. The grounds feature a number of statues and memorials relating to Belfast’s leading figures and historic past, including the Titanic Memorial Garden.

York Mansion House is the official residence of the Lord Mayor of York, positioned at the heart of city society and civic life for almost 300 years. A masterpiece of 18th century architecture and a celebration of the city it inhabits, York Mansion House and its infamous residents have a colourful history, filled with scandal, decadence and outlandish feasting. Following extensive restoration, in 2018 the house opened to the public for the first time, allowing all to experience this extravagant mayoral life, and take an interactive walk through York’s Georgian past. From July 22nd 2020, we’re delighted to be reopening with a series of brand new, bookable guided tours. With visitor safety our priority, we have put a number of steps in place to ensure you feel welcome, safe and comfortable during your visit with us. Head to our website to find out how we’ve been getting ready for this new chapter.

Birmingham's Grade I listed concert hall, managed along sister venue Symphony Hall, is home to a diverse programme of events including jazz, world, folk, rock, pop and classical concerts, organ recitals, spoken word, dance, family, educational and community performances, as well as annual general meetings, product launches, conferences, dinners, fashion shows, graduation ceremonies and broadcasts.

Inaugurated by Queen Victoria in 1888, Glasgow City Chambers dominates George Square and is currently home to Glasgow City Council. The grand marble staircase and banqueting hall are among the building's many highlights. Free guided tours are conducted at 10:30am and 2:30pm on weekdays except public holidays and special events.

The Royal Courts of Justice are an attraction well worth a visit. Close enough to Parliament, the Temple and The City. With stunning Victorian architecture, a small costume exhibition. The courts were designed by George Edmund Street and took more than eight years to complete throughout the 1870s. The courts were opened in an official ceremony by Queen Victoria on December 4th, 1882.

This place is temporarily closed. This neo-Gothic masterpiece was designed by Alfred Waterhouse and completed in 1887. At the front main entrance sits a statue of the Roman Governor, Agricola, founder of the original fort of Mamuciam, from which the city began. The building dominates Albert Square.