London: Legal Walking Tour of Inns of Court and Royal Courts

London: Legal Walking Tour of Inns of Court and Royal Courts

Imagine wandering through the quiet, historic streets of London’s legal district, where centuries of history unfold around every corner. For $34 per person, you can join a guided walk that takes you through Inns of Court, Temple Church, and the Royal Courts of Justice, offering insights into the development of English Common Law and its influence worldwide. The tour typically lasts a few hours, and with a knowledgeable guide, you’ll see some of the most iconic and evocative sites in London’s legal landscape.

What we love about this experience is how it combines history, architecture, and stories that bring the legal world to life—like discovering why lawyers wear wigs or how the Inns of Court became the breeding ground for influential figures like Mahatma Gandhi and even U.S. founding fathers. We also appreciate the outside visits to stunning medieval halls and the inside look at the grand Royal Courts of Justice, where justice is still served today.

A potential consideration is the amount of walking involved, which can be a lot on a hot day or if you have mobility issues—this tour is outdoors and not designed for those with mobility impairments. Otherwise, it’s ideal for history buffs, legal enthusiasts, or anyone curious about London’s hidden corners of influence. If you enjoy learning through stories and architecture, this tour offers a very engaging way to spend a few hours.

This experience is perfect for travelers who seek more than just sightseeing—those interested in the law, history, and architecture—and who want an authentic, off-the-beaten-path perspective on London. It’s also great for those who appreciate stories of real people who shaped the world, from Shakespeare to Gandhi.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Deep historical context: Learn how the Inns of Court helped develop the English Common Law and influenced legal systems across the globe.
• Iconic sites: See the Temple Church, Middle Temple Hall, and Lincoln’s Inn—each with its own unique story.
• Architectural beauty: Admire beautiful medieval and Elizabethan buildings, including the most perfect example of an Elizabethan hall in London.
• Fascinating traditions: Discover why lawyers still eat dinners in the halls and why they wear wigs.
• Not just history: Hear stories about influential figures like Mahatma Gandhi, seven signatories to the American Declaration of Independence, and Queen Elizabeth II commissioning the Royal Courts.
• Inside access: Visit the Royal Courts of Justice, where you can see the courts in action, and enjoy the outside views of historic Inns.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour begins outside Temple Underground Station, a quiet hub nestled amid some of London’s most historic legal buildings. The guide, often someone with a legal background like Keith, a retired lawyer, immediately makes the experience personable and rich with stories. We found that having a guide who’s knowledgeable and personable adds a lot to the experience—he was praised for his friendly attitude and ability to tailor the info to the group’s interests.

Once gathered, the walk kicks off through the medieval streets, where the atmosphere feels like stepping back in time. We loved the way each building and street corner told stories of centuries of legal tradition, from the days of King John and the Magna Carta to modern times.

Exploring the Inns of Court

The Inns of Court are the core of the tour. You get outside views of Middle Temple, Inner Temple, Lincoln’s Inn, and Gray’s Inn, each with its own unique architecture and history.

• Middle Temple Hall, built in 1573, is often highlighted as “the most perfect” Elizabethan building remaining in London. We loved the way its timber framing and interior details evoke the grandeur of the period. It’s got a special place in English history; Dickens even set scenes there in Bleak House.

• Inner Temple Gardens provide a peaceful green space, and if open, add a touch of serenity amid the stone facades. The guide explained how these gardens are linked to Shakespeare’s plays, with references to Henry VI, where the origins of the War of the Roses are thought to have started with a simple game involving roses.

• The significance of the Inns isn’t just architecture. They’re historically where influential figures studied and worked. Among those who studied here are seven signers of the American Declaration of Independence, Mahatma Gandhi, and Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

• We also learned about the tradition of dinners in the halls, a ritual that has persisted for hundreds of years—something visitors don’t often see but which still plays a role in the Inns’ camaraderie and mentorship.

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Notable Historic Sites

The tour also includes Temple Church, built in 1162, famous for its round design and links to the Magna Carta negotiations. You can visit this church for a small fee afterward, which many in the group chose to do. The story of how the church served as a base for King John and the Magna Carta’s signing adds a compelling layer to the visit.

Next, we see the Royal Courts of Justice, inaugurated in 1882. Its Gothic Revival style is breathtaking, and the guide explained how it was designed to house 19 courts at first, now handling around 100. Seeing it from the outside, you get a sense of its importance—not just as a courthouse but as an architectural symbol of justice.

Additional Highlights

• The Gray’s Inn, where Dickens worked as an office boy, offers a glimpse into the legal profession’s evolution. The restored hall after bomb damage is a testament to resilience.
• Lincoln’s Inn, home to 15 British Prime Ministers, including Tony Blair and Margaret Thatcher, provides a window into political history as well as law.
• The pub at El Vino’s, once described as “no ordinary wine bar,” is a fun stop that many say adds character and local flavor to the experience.

What We Gained from the Tour

Throughout, the guide shared fascinating stories—like why lawyers wear wigs (a tradition dating back to the 17th century for status and anonymity), and how women like Helena Normanton broke barriers after having to eat 70 dinners just to qualify as a lawyer. The stories made the buildings and traditions more meaningful, not just distant relics.

We appreciated that the tour didn’t just focus on architecture but also on social and legal history, making it relevant and engaging. The comments from other travelers highlight what makes this tour special: knowledgeable guides who blend facts with stories, and sites not often visited by regular travelers.

Practicalities and Value

At $34, this tour offers excellent value considering the depth of stories, the expert guidance, and the insider access to renowned sites. It covers a lot of ground—from medieval halls to the modern courts—in just a few hours. While it involves a good amount of walking and outdoor exposure, the pace is manageable, and the guide is attentive to the group’s needs.

Note that entry to some sites, like Temple Church, is optional and at an extra cost. The tour does not include food or drinks, but the stops at historic pubs like El Vino’s add a local touch if you choose to linger.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Tour?

This tour suits history lovers, legal enthusiasts, architecture fans, and those wanting a taste of London’s quieter, more academic side. If you’re curious about how laws are made and enforced or want to see where influential figures studied and worked, you’ll find this tour enriching. It’s also excellent for travelers who appreciate stories behind the buildings and enjoy off-the-beaten-path experiences rather than typical sightseeing.

However, if mobility is a concern, keep in mind the amount of walking outdoors involved. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or those with limited stamina, it might be best to consider your pace or alternate options.

The Sum Up

This Legal Walking Tour of Inns of Court and Royal Courts provides an authentic, engaging way to explore London’s legal heritage. It combines architecture, history, and colorful stories into a manageable and rewarding experience. The knowledgeable guides make it lively and informative, offering insights you won’t find in guidebooks.

For anyone interested in law, history, or architecture, or simply curious about London’s lesser-known neighborhoods filled with stories of power and justice, this tour offers excellent value. It’s a perfect mix of education and entertainment, revealing a side of London that’s often hidden behind its famous landmarks.

If you want to understand how the legal traditions rooted here have shaped the world, or if you enjoy walking through history with a friendly expert, this is a tour you’ll remember.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not suitable for children under 10 years old due to the outdoor walking involved and the depth of history.

How long does the tour last?
It generally takes a few hours, covering multiple sites with plenty of stories and stops along the way.

Are inside visits included?
Most visits are outside, with a chance to visit Temple Church for a fee afterward. The Royal Courts of Justice can be viewed inside during the tour, and you may see courts in session.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must, as there’s a significant amount of walking. Dress weather-appropriate because the tour is outdoors.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Not really; the tour involves outdoor walking and some uneven surfaces, so it’s not suitable for mobility impairments.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended, especially because spots can fill up. You can reserve your place and pay later.

Where does the tour end?
It concludes back at Chancery Lane Underground Station, making it easy to continue your day in London.

You can check availability for your dates here: