Lincoln's Inn Fields: London's Largest Historic Square

From Pasture to Prestigious Square

Lincoln's Inn Fields began as two irregularly shaped fields known as Purse Field and Cup Field, recorded from the 13th century as grazing pasture for cattle. Originally owned by St. Giles Hospital and later passing through several hands including the Crown, the area was leased to inns as rough pasture well into the Tudor period. The Society of Lincoln's Inn, adjacent to the fields, fiercely opposed early development attempts to preserve the open space for recreation and health benefits. In the 1630s, William Newton obtained a royal licence to build 32 houses around the fields, with the condition that the central space remain open and accessible to the public. This marked the beginning of Lincoln's Inn Fields as a fashionable residential square, guided by the architectural influence of Inigo Jones.

Historic Architecture and Legal Legacy

Surrounding the square are several notable historic buildings. Lindsey House, dating from 1640 and attributed to Inigo Jones, is among the oldest surviving structures. The area transitioned from residential to a professional legal 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, exemplifies this evolution. The Sir John Soane Museum, located on the north side, offers a glimpse into the eccentric life of the renowned architect and adds cultural depth to the square's heritage.

A Place of Dramatic History and Public Use

Lincoln's Inn Fields has witnessed significant and sometimes dark historical events. The square was a site of public executions during the 16th and 17th centuries, including the hanging, drawing, and quartering of Babington Plot conspirators and the beheading of William Lord Russell for his role in the Rye House Plot. Despite its grim past, the fields served as a recreational area with cricket and other outdoor activities in the 18th century. The square was enclosed by railings in 1735, restricting public access until the late 19th century when the London County Council acquired and opened it to the public. The railings were removed during World War II for wartime metal use and later replaced in the 1990s.

Gardens and Green Space Today

The gardens of Lincoln's Inn date back to 1445, originally serving practical purposes such as supplying food and providing hunting grounds. Over time, the gardens evolved into decorative landscapes with terraces, tree-lined paths, and geometric designs. Today, Lincoln's Inn Fields offers a tranquil green oasis in central London with lawns, mature trees, tennis and netball courts, and a putting green. The central shelter, sometimes used as a bandstand, adds to the park's community atmosphere.

Cultural and Social Significance

The square has been home to notable residents including Nell Gwynne and the Duchess of Portland, reflecting its aristocratic past. It also hosted a theatre from 1661 to 1848 where John Gay’s and Purcell’s operas premiered. The area remains closely associated with the legal profession and the Inns of Court, maintaining its unique character as a blend of history, law, and public leisure. The Friends of Lincoln’s Inn Fields continue to preserve and enhance the park for visitors and locals alike.

Enduring Urban Sanctuary

Despite London's expansion and modernization, Lincoln's Inn Fields has survived as a rare large open space in a dense urban environment. Its preservation reflects centuries of resistance to overdevelopment and a commitment to public access. Today, it stands as a vibrant, historic, and peaceful square offering a window into London’s layered past and a green retreat amid the city's bustle.