Lincoln's Inn Fields: London's Largest Historic Square
London’s largest historic square blending centuries of legal heritage, dramatic history, and tranquil green space in the heart of Holborn.
Lincoln's Inn Fields is the largest public square in London, steeped in over 650 years of history. Originally pasture land in the 13th century, it evolved through aristocratic residence, legal professional hub, and a site of public executions to become a cherished green space surrounded by historic architecture, including Lindsey House and the Sir John Soane Museum.
A brief summary to Lincoln's Inn Fields
- London, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the Sir John Soane Museum on the north side for an atmospheric glimpse into an eccentric architect’s life.
- Explore Lindsey House, one of London’s oldest surviving townhouses dating back to 1640.
- Look for the plaque commemorating the Rye House Plot executions within the square.
- Enjoy the green lawns, tennis courts, and putting green for a relaxing break from the city.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Central Line to Holborn Station, approximately 10-15 minutes walk to Lincoln's Inn Fields. The station is well connected and accessible, with frequent service and no entrance fees beyond standard tube fare.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve the Holborn area, including routes 8, 25, and 242. Buses run every 10-15 minutes, with a travel time of 20-30 minutes from central London locations. Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for fares.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
A taxi or ride-hailing service from central London to Lincoln's Inn Fields typically takes 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. Fares usually range from £10 to £20. Note that traffic congestion can increase travel time during peak hours.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to Lincoln's Inn Fields is pleasant and accessible, with routes through Holborn’s historic streets. Walking times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point and mobility.
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
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.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
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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
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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.
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
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
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- 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
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
