Hare Place in Temple, London: A Historic Legal Enclave
Discover Hare Place in Temple, London—a serene historic enclave steeped in centuries of legal tradition and architectural charm.
Hare Place, nestled within the Temple district of London, is a historic and atmospheric enclave famed for its deep-rooted connections to the legal profession. Surrounded by iconic barristers' chambers such as Hare Court, this area combines centuries-old architecture with tranquil gardens and narrow lanes, offering a unique glimpse into London's legal heritage and the enduring legacy of the Knights Templar.
A brief summary to Hare Pl
- London, Temple, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during weekday daylight hours to experience the tranquil atmosphere and see the area’s historic architecture in natural light.
- Explore nearby Temple Gardens for a peaceful green space surrounded by legal landmarks.
- Use Temple or Blackfriars Underground stations for convenient access to Hare Place.
- Note that the Temple gates close in the evening and on public holidays, limiting access during those times.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
Take the London Underground to Temple station on the Circle or District lines, approximately a 5-minute walk to Hare Place. The station is well-served with frequent trains, and fares range from £2.50 to £5 depending on the time and ticket type.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near the Temple area, including routes 4, 11, and 15. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes from central London locations, with an Oyster card fare of about £1.75 per journey.
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River Bus
Use the Thames River Bus service to Blackfriars Pier, a 9-minute walk from Hare Place. This scenic option offers a relaxing journey along the Thames, with fares typically around £6 to £8.
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Taxi or Ride-share
Taxis and ride-share services can drop you off near the south side of Fleet Street, close to Middle Temple Lane. Travel time depends on traffic but generally ranges from 10 to 25 minutes from central London. Parking is limited and often restricted in the Temple area.
Hare Pl location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Hare Pl
Origins and Legal Heritage of Hare Place
Hare Place is situated in the Temple area of London, a district historically linked to the Knights Templar and now synonymous with the legal profession. The wider Temple precinct dates back to the 12th century when the Knights Templar established their London headquarters here. Over time, the area evolved into a hub for barristers and legal institutions, with Hare Place and its adjoining Hare Court forming part of this rich tapestry. The name 'Hare Court' derives from Nicholas Hare, who built the first chambers in 1567, marking the long-standing tradition of legal practice in this quarter.Architectural Character and Surroundings
The buildings around Hare Place exhibit a blend of historic and post-medieval architecture, with some structures rebuilt after fires in the 17th century and others restored following wartime damage. Hare Court itself was reconstructed in the late 1600s, featuring elegant brick facades and a notable water pump once famed for its pure water. The intimate scale of Hare Place, enclosed by high buildings and adjacent to Temple Gardens, creates a secluded atmosphere amid the bustling City of London.The Role of Hare Place in London's Legal Landscape
Hare Place forms part of the Inner Temple and Middle Temple Inns of Court, two of the four Inns that regulate barristers in England and Wales. These Inns serve as professional associations and provide chambers for legal practitioners. Hare Place and its surroundings are thus central to the daily workings of London’s legal community, housing barristers’ offices, libraries, and meeting rooms, maintaining a tradition that has persisted for centuries.Public Access and Atmosphere
While the Temple area is primarily a professional precinct, its narrow lanes and historic courtyards like Hare Place offer visitors a quiet retreat from the city's hustle. The area is characterized by cobbled streets, period architecture, and small garden squares, providing a peaceful ambiance. Access is regulated, with gates closing in the evenings and on holidays, preserving the tranquil and exclusive character of the district.Nearby Landmarks and Cultural Context
Hare Place is close to significant legal landmarks such as the Royal Courts of Justice and Fleet Street, historically the heart of British journalism and law. The proximity to Temple Underground Station and Blackfriars adds to its accessibility. The district’s layered history—from medieval knights to modern legal professionals—imbues Hare Place with a unique cultural resonance within London’s urban fabric.Modern Relevance and Visitor Experience
Today, Hare Place remains a vital part of London’s legal ecosystem, with chambers continuing to operate in the area. Visitors can appreciate the blend of history and ongoing legal tradition, enjoy the peaceful gardens, and admire the architecture that reflects centuries of legal heritage. The area’s quiet charm and historic significance make it a compelling destination for those interested in law, history, and London’s lesser-known corners.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hare Pl
0.0 km
Discover Hare Place in Temple, London—a serene historic enclave steeped in centuries of legal tradition and architectural charm.
Prince Henry's Room
0.1 km
Discover a rare Jacobean timber-framed treasure on Fleet Street, rich with history, ornate plasterwork, and tales from London's past.
3 Gunpowder Square
0.2 km
A modern square in London’s financial district commemorating the dramatic history of the 1605 Gunpowder Plot and Guy Fawkes’ daring conspiracy.
Ludgate Circus
0.3 km
Historic Victorian junction where London's ancient Ludgate once stood, blending rich legend, architecture, and urban vitality.
St Clement Danes Church
0.4 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.
Bomber Harris Memorial
0.4 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.
King's Reach commemoration memorial
0.4 km
Historic riverside memorial honoring King George V’s Silver Jubilee and the naming of London’s Thames stretch as 'King’s Reach'.
Victoria Embankment
0.4 km
A historic riverside promenade in London blending Victorian engineering, scenic gardens, iconic monuments, and stunning Thames views.
Holborn Viaduct
0.5 km
A grand Victorian bridge spanning London's hidden Fleet valley, blending engineering innovation with ornate artistry and rich history.
The Old Watch House
0.5 km
A quaint early 18th-century parish watch house on London’s Strand, offering a rare glimpse into pre-Metropolitan Police community policing.
Blackfriars Bridge
0.6 km
Historic and widest Thames crossing in London, blending Victorian engineering with medieval heritage and stunning river views.
South Bank Community Area
0.6 km
A vibrant riverside cultural and historic district in central London, home to iconic landmarks, arts venues, and scenic Thames views.
Queen Anne Statue
0.6 km
Historic statue commemorating Queen Anne’s reign and the completion of St. Paul’s Cathedral, symbolizing Britain’s royal heritage and resilience.
Temple Bar London
0.7 km
Explore Temple Bar, London’s historic ceremonial gateway rebuilt by Christopher Wren, rich with royal heritage and striking 17th-century architecture.
Southbank Boardwalk
0.7 km
Experience the charm of London's Southbank Boardwalk, a serene escape with stunning river views, vibrant culture, and lush gardens.
Unmissable attractions to see
Fleet St
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Historic London street famed as the traditional home of British journalism, rich in literary heritage and hidden urban secrets.
Temple Church
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Explore the exquisite Temple Church, a 12th-century architectural marvel in London, rich in history and breathtaking beauty.
Dr Johnson's House
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Step into the historic home of Samuel Johnson and explore the birthplace of the English dictionary in the heart of London’s literary past.
Hodge The Cat Statue
0.2 km
Discover the charming bronze statue of Hodge, Samuel Johnson's beloved cat, perched on a dictionary in historic Gough Square, London.
The Old Bank of England
0.2 km
Discover the historic charm of The Old Bank of England, a premier pub in London, offering delicious food, local brews, and a vibrant atmosphere.
The Maughan Library
0.2 km
Explore London's grand neo-Gothic Maughan Library, a historic fireproof archive turned vibrant university research hub at King's College London.
Temple Bar Memorial
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Uncover the historical significance of Temple Bar Memorial, a captivating landmark in the heart of London, reflecting the city's rich heritage and culture.
John Wilkes statue
0.2 km
Explore the dynamic bronze statue of John Wilkes on Fetter Lane, celebrating a fiery 18th-century champion of freedom and London’s political heritage.
Middle Temple Venue Hire
0.2 km
A stunning Elizabethan hall at the heart of London’s legal heritage, blending history, architecture, and tradition in a serene riverside setting.
St Bride's Church, Fleet Street
0.3 km
Discover the historic heart of Fleet Street, where journalism, printing, and London’s past converge in a stunning Wren-designed church.
The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple
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Discover the historic heart of English law and royal heritage at the Honourable Society of the Middle Temple, home to stunning Elizabethan architecture and centuries of tradition.
Royal Courts of Justice
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Explore the Royal Courts of Justice, a stunning Gothic architectural masterpiece in London, showcasing the city's rich legal history and vibrant culture.
City of London Distillery & Bar
0.3 km
Discover London’s historic gin distillery and cocktail bar, blending tradition, innovation, and over 130 gins in a stylish subterranean setting.
Punch Tavern
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Discover The Punch Tavern, a historic pub on Fleet Street, serving traditional British fare and a vast selection of drinks in a charming atmosphere.
The Seven Stars
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One of London’s oldest pubs, The Seven Stars blends centuries of history with a lively legal atmosphere and eclectic charm in Holborn.
Essential places to dine
Ikoyi Restaurant
0.4 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Sea Containers Restaurant
0.6 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.7 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Sarastro
0.7 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
0.8 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
Balthazar
0.9 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Margot
0.9 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
St. John
0.9 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Wahaca Southbank
0.9 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
1.0 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Madison
1.0 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Chez Antoinette
1.0 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Inamo Covent Garden
1.0 km
A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
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Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
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Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Twinings - The Strand
0.3 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
0.4 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
0.6 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
0.6 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
j-me original design ltd
0.7 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
not just a shop
0.7 km
Discover unique, handcrafted art and design by UAL’s students and alumni at this creative retail hub in central London.
Sugar And Style
0.7 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.7 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Smithfield Market
0.8 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.9 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
One New Change
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Modern glass landmark with free rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral and London skyline.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
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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
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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.
Rokit Covent Garden
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Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
1.1 km
Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Black Parrot
0.3 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
Lyaness
0.6 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
0.7 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
The Understudy
0.8 km
Riverside craft beers, KERB street food, and Thames views at the National Theatre's lively bar – perfect for pre-show bites or late-night hangs on London's South Bank.
Plume Wine Bar
0.8 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
0.8 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.
Be At One - Russell Street
0.8 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.
Beaufort Bar
0.9 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
0.9 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
0.9 km
Glamorous Covent Garden cocktail haven pulsing with martini magic, bottomless brunches, and late-night DJ vibes under sparkling chandeliers.
Crusting Pipe
0.9 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.
Princess Louise
0.9 km
Step into the Princess Louise, a stunning Victorian gin palace in Holborn, where opulent interiors and rich history blend in a timeless London pub experience.
Eve Bar Covent Garden
1.0 km
Subterranean Covent Garden cocktail bar tempting with zero-waste elixirs, decadent snacks, and Eden-inspired glamour beneath a Michelin-starred haven.
The Chocolate Cocktail Club
1.0 km
London’s intimate chocolate cocktail bar blending rich flavors, stylish ambiance, and over 20 unique chocolate-infused drinks.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
1.0 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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.
Carwash Nightclub
0.8 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
0.9 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
London Best Night Clubs
1.1 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.2 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
The Roxy
1.2 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.
Heaven
1.2 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.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.3 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.
The Ivy Club
1.3 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
The Steel Yard
1.4 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
Cirque Du Soul
1.4 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
1.4 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
1.4 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
1.4 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.4 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
