An antique oak waiting bench from Tower Bridge Magistrates Court

Originally from Tower Bridge magistrates court in London. This fantastic antique solid oak bench sat between court rooms 2 & 3 until the court closed in 2013. 

The bench dates to when the court was originally built in the 1900s. This particular bench is unique and an absolute one off. The reason for this is explained below. 

Over many years while many a worried defendant sat waiting for their case to come up it was defaced with their names and the odd cheeky rude word. 

The extensive scratch graffiti runs the entire length of both the curved backrest and seat. 

The inscriptions have worn back from many a back and bottom rubbing over the timber creating a wonderful patina. 

Measuring just over 2.7m long this amazing piece of social history would be perfect for a London bar, or even for the centre piece in a barn conversation dining area. 

We have tried to illustrate the extend of the graffiti in the listing images but due to the number of individuals who created messages and names, we haven’t been able to show every single one. 

Dimensions:-

Length 275.8cm

Total height 98.5cm

Seat back height 53.5cm

Seat depth 30.7cm

Seat height 46cm

Depth 44cm

This is a real stand out seating option for any interior which holds a great history and connection to the city of London. Not another out there so don’t miss out!!

Apart from the obvious graffiti the bench has survived very well and is rock solid and ready to use. 

The use of the bench has created warm patina and colour to the timber. 

No worm or repairs. 

Three small areas in the backrest where the oak slats have travelled very slightly over the 120 odd years creating a small gap. This is illustrated but causes no problems and does not detract from the bench. 

*buyers from a Scotland and Wales please make contact prior to committing to purchase for a delivery quote*