Discover Lincoln's Inn Fields
If you’re wandering around Holborn, you might stumble upon Lincoln’s Inn Fields, named after the nearby Lincoln’s Inn. This Inn is one of London’s four historic Inns of Court, with exclusive rights to call students to the Bar of England and Wales. Covering about five hectares, the park itself is the largest public square in London.
In the 18th century, Lincoln’s Inn Fields was a hotspot for cricket and other outdoor activities. Today, while corporate events have since been phased out, the park still contains tennis courts, netball facilities, and a bandstand fostering recreation and social engagement. Visitors come to share a picnic, play some sport, or watch the grazing cattle.
But what makes Lincoln’s Inn Fields truly special is its fascinating history which stretches back over 600 years, meaning that this parkland has witnessed London’s evolution firsthand.
The Early History of Lincoln's Inn Fields
In the 13th century, the Lincoln’s Inn Fields land, part of Holborn’s Pursefield, belonged to St. Giles Hospital and was used as grazing pasture. Turnstiles were installed to keep cattle in and let pedestrians wander through. By the 16th century, the land passed through several hands, including Katherine Smyth, a local innkeeper, before reverting to the Crown.
In 1638, William Newton, a speculative builder and contractor, began developing the fields, erecting 32 houses on the condition that the central space remained open to the public. Newton’s plan was guided by the renowned architect Inigo Jones, who had already proven himself with a rebuild of The Maughan Library’s Rolls Chapel in 1617.
Interesting Fact: Jones’ original plans for the square were reportedly preserved at Wilton House, but their whereabouts today remain a mystery.
At first the Fields were private property. However, they weren’t destined to stay exclusive forever. By 1895, the grounds were acquired by the London County Council and officially opened to the public, much to the delight of Londoners craving a little open space.
The Dark History of Lincoln’s Inn Fields
Interestingly, the area wasn’t immune to grim spectacles. Public executions occasionally took place on these fields. In 1683, the nearby Lincoln’s Inn became the site of Lord William Russell’s grisly execution for his role in the Rye House Plot.
Legend has it that his executioner, Jack Ketch, botched the job so badly that Russell quipped mid-execution, “You dog, did I pay you 10 guineas to use me so inhumanely?”
In the 18th century, the Fields were enclosed with iron railings, spurred by an incident involving Sir Joseph Jekyll, who was either trampled by a horse or attacked for supporting an unpopular gin tax—take your pick!
What is there to see at Lincoln’s Inn Fields?
The Parkland: Lincoln’s Inn Fields
Lincoln’s Inn Fields has seven entrances, located at various corners and sides, welcoming visitors through cast-iron gates. Look out for the Victorian-era Philip Twells Memorial Fountain, a grade II listed drinking fountain built around 1880.
The park’s layout has remained largely unchanged since the early 19th century, but an interesting quirk is its slight slope which extends across the Fields.
The Surrounding Historical Buildings
Encircling the park are several historical buildings. The oldest surviving structure, Lindsey House, dating back to 1640, is often attributed to Inigo Jones. Nearby, 66 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, originally built for Lord Powis, played a significant role in history as the site where the Bank of England’s charter was sealed in 1694.
The area evolved from a residential space into a professional enclave during the 18th century, attracting lawyers due to its proximity to the Inns of Court. Newcastle House, now home to Farrer & Co. (solicitors to the royal family), is an example of this transition.
Lincoln's Inn
Other structures make up Lincoln's Inn itself. These include the Great Hall, where legal and royal gatherings have been held since 1490, and the Library, both opened by Queen Victoria in 1845. Historical figures like Sir Thomas More and Charles II often frequented the Old Hall, which ended up making a cameo in Charles Dickens’ Bleak House.
Another significant feature is the Chapel, beneath which lies the Undercroft—once a resting place for the dead and a sanctuary for abandoned babies, later named “Lincolns.” The nearby Gatehouse is an impressive time capsule built with bricks crafted on-site. And the adjoining Old Buildings might look simple now, but back in the day, they housed some impressive kitchens—complete with thirteen hearths!
Constructed between 1682 and 1693, New Square has had its share of disputes, from boundaries to renovations. Today, its plaques and inscriptions are like breadcrumbs, leading visitors through history. The square also hosted a theatre from 1661 to 1848, where John Gay’s The Beggar’s Opera and Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas were first performed.
The Gardens of Lincoln’s Inn
The gardens of Lincoln’s Inn date back to 1445. They initially served practical purposes, with the Long Garden supplying food for the Inn’s kitchens and the Coneygarth functioning as a rabbit hunting ground.
By the late 16th century, under the stewardship of James Dalton, the gardens evolved into a more decorative landscape with terraces and tree-lined paths. The northern section later became the Great Garden, characterised by its geometric design of intersecting paths and squares.
Today, the flowers within the Benchers’ Border, revamped in 2019, echoes the Great Hall’s brickwork, while the MCR Terrace contains Mediterranean palms and succulents. Wander a little deeper, and you’ll find the Kitchen Garden, woodland beds wrapping around the Library, new pathways, and Cherry Tree Bank, which are a seasonal highlight.
Visiting Lincoln's Inn Fields
Lincoln’s Inn Fields is centrally located, just a short stroll from Holborn (0.2km) or Chancery Lane (0.4km) tube stations. If you need to get your steps in, Blackfriars (1.2km) and Temple (1.5km) are also within walking distance. If visiting by car, the main vehicle entrance is on the south-east corner of Lincoln's Inn Fields (postcode: WC2A 3QA).
Exploring Lincoln’s Inn
The main entrance to Lincoln’s Inn is staffed 24/7, and helpful reception staff are on hand from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on weekdays. Pedestrian entrances on Chancery Lane and Carey Street are open Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 7:00 pm.
Once inside, you’ll find step-free access to much of the estate, including the gardens, Chapel, and Library. However, be aware that some chambers can only be reached via stairs.
If you’re interested in a guided tour, Lincoln’s Inn offers 90-minute tours for £15 per person. Led by knowledgeable staff, these tours run weekly at 11:00 am, and private group tours are also available.
Prefer to explore at your own pace? Self-guided tours are available for just £7.50, giving you access to the Library, Chapel, Gardens, and the Great Hall complex. Tickets include a £2.50 discount on the Lincoln’s Inn guidebook. Just remember, self-guided access is limited to weekdays between 10:00 am and 12:00 pm.
Visiting Tips
- Parking is limited and pricey during weekdays, so public transport is your best bet.
- Guided tours are a must if you want to explore spaces usually off-limits to the public.
- Time your visit outside the closure periods (Easter, the August Long Vacation, and Christmas) for the best experience.
- And let’s not forget the garden rules—dogs are for residents only, and loud games are frowned upon. It’s a space for peace and quiet, not shenanigans, after all!
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