Left Arrow
Right Arrow
Rating Star

5 (7)

Location Icon London

Inns of Court & Royal Courts: London Legal History Walk

Clock

165

Overview

Highlights

Sentiment Analysis

Overview

Quotes Logo The Inns of Court and Royal Courts of Justice Walking Tour dives into London's legal heart. This walk explores how this area fostered English Common Law, influencing legal systems worldwide, from the United States to Australia.

Expect to see where world-changers like signatories of the American Declaration of Independence, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Mahatma Gandhi, and Sir William Blackstone worked and lived. The tour includes key stops like the Elizabethan Building, Inner Temple Hall & Temple Gardens, Temple Church, Royal Courts of Justice, Old Hall at an Inn (Likely Lincoln's Inn or Gray's Inn), Inn of Chancery (Former), Hall at an Inn of Court (Likely Lincoln's Inn or Gray's Inn). It offers a peek into where pivotal figures shaped history.

This small-group walking tour, led by an expert English-speaking guide, unveils the secrets of these historic sites. Please note that coffee and tea are not included. Discover the legacy of law in London. Quotes Logo

Highlights

Highlight Icon

Explore Historic Legal Hubs: Walk through the Inns of Court and Royal Courts of Justice.

Highlight Icon

Learn About Legal History: Discover how English Common Law shaped the world.

Highlight Icon

See Famous Landmarks: Visit Temple Church and Inner Temple Hall.

Highlight Icon

Expert English-Speaking Guide: Get insights from a knowledgeable local guide.

Sentiment Analysis

Quotes Logo

Customers generally have a great time, loving the guide's knowledge and the historical insights, though some wish for a slower pace and more time indoors. Quotes Logo

  • Positive Highlight Icon Visitors loved learning about the history of law and famous figures.

    Positive Highlight Icon The guide was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic.

    Positive Highlight Icon The small group size made the tour feel personal.

    Positive Highlight Icon Many enjoyed seeing the beautiful buildings and gardens.

  • Negative Highlight Icon Some found the pace of the walking tour a bit fast.

    Negative Highlight Icon A few wished for more time inside the buildings.

The Journey

1

Elizabethan Building

Step back in time to witness a remarkably preserved Elizabethan building, hailed as a 'perfect' example of its era in Central London. Immerse yourself in the echoes of English history that resonate within its walls, a testament to the architectural and historical significance of the period. Though unnamed directly, its historical relevance makes it a can't miss location.

2

Inner Temple Hall & Temple Gardens

Venture into Temple Gardens, a place steeped in literary history where, according to Shakespeare's 'Henry VI, Part 1', the War of the Roses began with the symbolic picking of red and white roses. While Inner Temple Hall itself is noteworthy, the gardens, usually open on weekday afternoons, offer a tranquil escape and a tangible link to England's dramatic past, allowing you to literally walk in the footsteps of historical legend.

3

Temple Church

Discover Temple Church, consecrated in 1185, a historic site built by the Knights Templar. This magnificent church has played roles in seminal events such as the Magna Carta negotiations, with King John using the Temple as his London base. Fictionalized in Dan Brown's 'The Da Vinci Code,' its round nave and effigies of medieval knights offer a captivating glimpse into both history and legend. Admission is £5.00 and typically available after the morning tour.

4

Royal Courts of Justice

Marvel at the grandeur of the Royal Courts of Justice, opened by Queen Victoria in 1882. Originally designed to house 19 courts, it now accommodates around a hundred, reflecting the ever-growing complexity of the British legal system. Delve into the heart of justice as you explore the building's intricate architecture and witness the workings of the modern legal system.

5

Old Hall at an Inn (Likely Lincoln's Inn or Gray's Inn)

Visit one of London's esteemed Inns of Court, home to the Old Hall, constructed around 1490. This specific Inn has produced eleven prime ministers. This hall, which once served as a Court of Chancery, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditions and history of the English legal profession. Note: More precise Inn will require visiting the site.

6

Inn of Chancery (Former)

Witness the beauty of a former Inn of Chancery, featuring a remarkable Tudor timber-framed facade erected in 1586. Considered one of the finest examples of Tudor architecture in Central London, this building offers a captivating glimpse into the craftsmanship and design of a bygone era, showcasing the enduring appeal of Tudor style.

7

Hall at an Inn of Court (Likely Lincoln's Inn or Gray's Inn)

Explore a hall dating back to 1560, lovingly reconstructed with support from the American Bar Association following bomb damage. Reflect in the square by considering the legacy of the Inn's most prominent former member, immortalized in a statue, and decide for yourself if the honor is deserved. Note: More precise Inn will require visiting the site.

Know Before You Go

This walking tour includes an expert, English-speaking tour guide to lead the way. Please note that coffee and tea are not included in the tour. The meeting point will be communicated after booking and there is no hotel pick-up and drop-off, so make your own travel arrangements to the site.

Hot Tip

Wear comfortable shoes as this is a walking tour. Also, bring an umbrella or raincoat in case of unpredictable weather.

From £24 Price

Book Now

As a Viator affiliate partner, we may earn a commission on purchases made through our platform.

Book Now

As a Viator affiliate partner, we may earn a commission on purchases made through our platform.