Lincoln's Inn Fields, London's Largest Historic Square
London’s largest historic square, blending centuries of legal heritage, serene gardens, and remarkable architecture in the heart of the city.
Lincoln's Inn Fields is London's largest public square, steeped in over 650 years of history. Originally pasture land in the 13th century, it evolved through aristocratic residences, legal institutions, and sites of historic events into a tranquil urban park surrounded by remarkable 17th- and 18th-century architecture. Today, it offers a peaceful green oasis in central London, blending rich heritage with serene gardens and notable landmarks.
A brief summary to Lincoln's Inn Fields
- London, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit Lindsey House, one of London’s oldest surviving houses, to appreciate 17th-century architecture.
- Explore the gardens, which date back to the 15th century and offer peaceful geometric designs.
- Look for plaques marking historical events, such as the Rye House Plot executions.
- Enjoy the central shelter, which has served as a bandstand and community gathering spot.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Central Line to Holborn station, approximately a 10-15 minute walk to Lincoln's Inn Fields. The station is well-serviced and accessible, with frequent trains running throughout the day. No additional fare beyond standard zone 1 fares applies.
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Bus
Bus routes 8, 25, and 242 stop near Lincoln's Inn Fields along High Holborn and Kingsway. Travel times vary from 15 to 25 minutes from central London locations. Buses run regularly but can be affected by traffic during peak hours. Standard London bus fares apply.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
A taxi or ride-hailing service from central London typically takes 10-20 minutes depending on traffic. Fares generally range from £8 to £15. Be aware that traffic congestion can increase travel time during rush hours.
Lincoln's Inn Fields location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Lincoln's Inn Fields
Origins and Early History of Lincoln's Inn Fields
Lincoln's Inn Fields began as two adjoining open fields known as Purse Field and Cup Field in the 13th and 14th centuries, originally used as grazing pasture linked to St. Giles Hospital. The land passed through various owners, including the Crown, before becoming associated with Lincoln's Inn, one of the four Inns of Court. For centuries, the fields served practical and sometimes grim functions, including public executions in the 16th and 17th centuries, such as the hanging of Babington Plot conspirators and the beheading of Lord Russell for the Rye House Plot.Transformation into a Residential and Legal Hub
In the 1630s, William Newton obtained a royal license to develop the edges of the fields, erecting 32 houses while ensuring the central space remained open. This development, influenced by architect Inigo Jones, marked the beginning of Lincoln's Inn Fields as a fashionable residential square. Over time, it transitioned from aristocratic homes to a professional legal enclave, attracting lawyers due to its proximity to the Inns of Court. Notable surviving buildings include Lindsey House, dating back to 1640, and Newcastle House, now home to royal solicitors Farrer & Co.Architectural and Cultural Significance
The square is surrounded by historic architecture spanning the 17th to 19th centuries, including the Stone Buildings designed by Sir Robert Taylor and the Great Hall and Library constructed in the neo-Tudor style. The area once hosted a theatre where John Gay’s and Purcell’s operas premiered. The gardens, dating back to the 15th century, evolved from practical kitchen gardens to decorative terraces and geometric designs, offering a serene landscape amid the urban environment.Public Access and Modern Use
Originally private and enclosed by railings installed in 1735, Lincoln's Inn Fields was acquired by the London County Council in 1894 and opened to the public, providing much-needed green space in central London. The railings were removed during World War II for metal reclamation and later replaced. Today, the park features tennis and netball courts, a putting green, and a central shelter that has served as a bandstand, making it a lively yet tranquil spot for leisure.Historical Events and Notable Residents
Lincoln's Inn Fields has witnessed significant historical moments, including its association with the Rye House Plot and its role as a place of execution. It was home to notable figures such as Nell Gwynne and the Duchess of Portland, mistresses of Charles II. The architect Sir John Soane’s house, now a museum, adds to the area's cultural heritage. The square's history reflects London's evolution from medieval fields to a center of legal and social life.Preservation and Legacy
Despite pressures from urban development and crime in earlier centuries, Lincoln's Inn Fields has been preserved as a vital green space thanks to early resistance from the legal community and public campaigns. Its layered history, architectural grandeur, and peaceful gardens continue to offer visitors a unique glimpse into London's past and present, embodying a rare blend of cultural heritage and urban tranquility.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sicilian Avenue
0.3 km
Discover Sicilian Avenue, a serene Edwardian pedestrian street in London blending Italianate architecture with charming shops and tranquil ambiance.
190 High Holborn
0.4 km
A modern office landmark in central London, blending contemporary design with strategic connectivity near historic Holborn.
Bomber Harris Memorial
0.5 km
A solemn tribute to RAF Bomber Command’s leader and airmen, set within the historic St Clement Danes Church in London’s Temple district.
St Clement Danes Church
0.5 km
Historic London church and Central Church of the Royal Air Force, famed for its Wren architecture, RAF memorials, and iconic 'Oranges and Lemons' bells.
Bow St
0.5 km
Bow Street, a historic London street famed for pioneering policing, vibrant theatre, and rich cultural heritage in Covent Garden.
Prince Henry's Room
0.6 km
Discover a rare Jacobean timber-framed treasure on Fleet Street, rich with history, ornate plasterwork, and tales from London's past.
The Old Watch House
0.6 km
A quaint early 18th-century parish watch house on London’s Strand, offering a rare glimpse into pre-Metropolitan Police community policing.
King's College Chapel
0.6 km
Victorian Gothic grandeur hidden above the Great Hall—a masterpiece of engineering and ecclesiastical artistry.
1 Queen Square
0.6 km
A historic London garden square, blending Georgian elegance, medical legacy, and tranquil green space in the heart of Bloomsbury.
Temple Church
0.6 km
Medieval fortress of faith where crusading knights shaped English law and history.
covent Garden ,
0.6 km
Explore Covent Garden's vibrant atmosphere filled with shopping, dining, and entertainment in the heart of London.
Hare Pl
0.6 km
Discover Hare Place in Temple, London—a serene historic enclave steeped in centuries of legal tradition and architectural charm.
Hodge The Cat Statue
0.7 km
Discover the charm of Hodge The Cat Statue in London, a delightful tribute to literary history and a must-visit for cat lovers and culture enthusiasts.
Strand
0.7 km
Historic London thoroughfare linking Westminster and the City, famed for grand hotels, cultural landmarks, and hidden historical treasures.
Temple Station
0.7 km
Explore the historic Temple Station in London, where Gothic revival architecture meets the vibrant pulse of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sir John Soane's Museum
0.0 km
Explore the extraordinary preserved home and collection of Sir John Soane, a masterpiece of architecture and eclectic art in central London.
The Old Curiosity Shop
0.2 km
A charming Tudor-era timbered shop in London, steeped in Dickensian legend and offering a rare glimpse of Elizabethan architecture amid the modern city.
The Honourable Society of Lincoln's Inn
0.3 km
Explore the historic legal heart of London at Lincoln's Inn, where centuries of law, architecture, and tradition converge in a serene urban oasis.
Peacock Theatre
0.3 km
A dynamic West End venue dedicated to contemporary dance and innovative performances in a historic yet modern setting.
London Silver Vaults
0.3 km
Explore the world’s largest underground silver marketplace beneath historic Chancery Lane, where centuries of craftsmanship shine behind steel vault doors.
Princess Louise
0.3 km
Experience the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Princess Louise, a must-visit gastropub in London's Holborn district.
The Seven Stars
0.3 km
One of London’s oldest pubs, The Seven Stars blends centuries of history with a lively legal atmosphere and eclectic charm in Holborn.
Freemasons Hall, London
0.4 km
Discover London's iconic Art Deco Freemasons' Hall, a grand memorial and Masonic headquarters rich in history, symbolism, and stunning architecture.
Staple Inn
0.4 km
Discover Staple Inn, London’s last Tudor timber-framed Inn of Chancery, a historic legal and wool trading hub that survived fire, war, and centuries of change.
Gillian Lynne Theatre
0.4 km
Experience world-class musicals and iconic performances in the heart of London’s West End at the historic Gillian Lynne Theatre.
Drury Lane Gardens
0.4 km
Discover a historic and tranquil pocket park in Covent Garden, blending Victorian heritage with modern play spaces in central London.
Royal Courts of Justice
0.5 km
Explore the Royal Courts of Justice, a stunning Gothic architectural masterpiece in London, showcasing the city's rich legal history and vibrant culture.
Bloomsbury Square Garden
0.5 km
Discover Bloomsbury Square Garden, London's serene historic square blending 17th-century heritage with tranquil green space in the heart of Bloomsbury.
Aldwych Theatre
0.5 km
Experience timeless elegance and captivating performances at London’s historic Aldwych Theatre, a West End treasure with Art Deco charm.
Fortune Theatre
0.5 km
Experience intimate West End theatre magic at the historic Fortune Theatre, London’s charming post-WWI gem with a rich cultural legacy.
Essential places to dine
Sarastro
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Margot
0.4 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
0.5 km
Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
Ikoyi Restaurant
0.5 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
0.6 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
Inamo Covent Garden
0.6 km
A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
Balthazar
0.6 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Circus
0.6 km
Experience Covent Garden’s vibrant Asian fusion dinner theatre where culinary artistry meets captivating live performances.
Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
0.7 km
Lively Japanese izakaya in Covent Garden famed for its signature bao buns, vibrant atmosphere, and innovative pan-Asian small plates.
Chez Antoinette
0.7 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Punch & Judy
0.7 km
Historic Covent Garden pub blending classic British fare, lively balcony views, and family-friendly charm in the heart of London.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
0.7 km
Savor expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant seafood in a historic Covent Garden brewery setting with atmospheric charm and refined cocktails.
Palm Court Brasserie
0.7 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.8 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
0.8 km
Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
not just a shop
0.1 km
Discover unique, handcrafted art and design by UAL’s students and alumni at this creative retail hub in central London.
Twinings - The Strand
0.5 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
The Store X
0.5 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Persephone books
0.6 km
Discover the hidden treasures of 20th-century women’s literature at Persephone Books, a Bloomsbury gem celebrating forgotten female voices.
Rokit Covent Garden
0.6 km
Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
Blackout II - Vintage Clothing London
0.6 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures from the 1920s to the 1980s in Covent Garden’s iconic Blackout II boutique.
Pop Boutique
0.6 km
Discover authentic vintage fashion treasures from the 50s to 90s in a colorful, retro boutique at London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
Fancy That of London
0.6 km
Discover unique London souvenirs and charming keepsakes in a warm, inviting shop just opposite the British Museum on Great Russell Street.
Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
0.6 km
Trendy Italian-LA fusion on Neal Street: one-size-fits-most chic for the effortless Covent Garden style seeker.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.7 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Urban Outfitters
0.7 km
Dive into Urban Outfitters' warehouse wonderland in Seven Dials, where eclectic fashion, cult beauty, and quirky homewares fuel London's youth culture vibe.
Good
0.7 km
Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials shop.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
0.7 km
Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.7 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
The Moomin Shop London
0.7 km
Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Be At One - Russell Street
0.5 km
Covent Garden’s vibrant cocktail bar with 100+ drinks, late-night parties, and unbeatable 2-for-1 happy hours in a stylish basement setting.
Plume Wine Bar
0.6 km
Covent Garden speakeasy in Dickens' old offices: sparkling wines from afar, cheesy sharing plates, and note-passing to strangers in candlelit luxury.
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
0.6 km
Shake up your night in Covent Garden with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclasses in a historic spot pulsing with theater-district energy.
Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
0.6 km
Glamorous Covent Garden cocktail haven pulsing with martini magic, bottomless brunches, and late-night DJ vibes under sparkling chandeliers.
The Duke
0.7 km
A classic Bloomsbury pub offering warm hospitality, traditional drinks, and hearty British fare in a cozy setting.
Crusting Pipe
0.7 km
Covent Garden wine bar pouring Davy’s finest ports amid live music, British classics and cosy nooks—perfect for pre-theatre indulgence or market rendezvous.
Ye Olde Mitre, Holborn
0.7 km
Discover Ye Olde Mitre, a hidden Tudor-era pub in Holborn where history, legend, and cozy charm converge in a secret London alley.
The Escapologist Bar
0.7 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired underground bar in Covent Garden where theatrical cocktails and lively entertainment create unforgettable nights.
Eve Bar Covent Garden
0.8 km
Subterranean Covent Garden cocktail bar tempting with zero-waste elixirs, decadent snacks, and Eden-inspired glamour beneath a Michelin-starred haven.
Beaufort Bar
0.8 km
Step into the Beaufort Bar’s jet-black and gold Art Deco glamour for exquisite cocktails, live sultry music, and a timeless London night out.
American Bar
0.8 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
Prelude by Oriole
0.8 km
A refined Covent Garden cocktail bar blending innovative drinks, Latin American fusion cuisine, and live music in a stylish Asian-inspired setting.
Mrs Riot
0.8 km
Covent Garden's technicolor riot: punk-pop cocktails, drag brunches, live DJs, and Kitty Clive's rebellious legacy in one explosive venue.
Upstairs At Rules
0.8 km
Discover Upstairs At Rules, a refined cocktail bar above London’s oldest restaurant, where Edwardian elegance meets expertly crafted drinks in Covent Garden.
Fitz's Russell Sq.
0.8 km
Discover Fitz's Russell Square, a glamorous cocktail bar blending Victorian elegance with modern British cuisine in the heart of Bloomsbury.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Carwash Nightclub
0.3 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
0.4 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
The Roxy
0.7 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
0.7 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Proud Late
0.8 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
The Ivy Club
0.9 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.9 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
Club49Soho
1.0 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
La Capannina Club
1.0 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.1 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Heaven
1.1 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
The Penthouse London
1.2 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
London Best Night Clubs
1.2 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
Sophisticats Soho
1.3 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Café de Paris
1.3 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
