Middle Temple Tour and Christmas Lunch

Thirty-six members attended the Tour of Middle Temple followed by Christmas lunch. As we walked down Middle Temple Lane it was like entering into a different world – calm and quiet. The hubbub of Fleet Street had been left behind and could only be faintly heard as we wandered towards the main building to find our guides. It really was like being in a completely different place than London.

The tour guides were extremely knowledgeable and we learnt about the history of this Inn of Court, from the time of the Knights Templar to the present day. Middle Temple was built between 1562 and 1573. It was quite a history lesson as we were told how it narrowly escaped being destroyed by the Great Fire of London and the development of the Inn as new buildings were constructed over time at the instruction of various monarchs. 

Middle Temple is a community of many buildings, including the Main Building, a church and the offices (known as Chambers) occupied by barristers who are members of the Inn. It felt like being in a stately home as we were guided through the various rooms inside the Main Building which houses the Great Hall. The buildings have remained largely unchanged since they were built and survived both World Wars. The Great Hall itself was impressive, with detailed architecture, impressive oak panelling, stained glass windows, paintings and armour, which together created a breathtaking and majestic atmosphere. 

We ate lunch in the Great Hall and were served mulled wine and a lovely three course lunch. It was great to spend time getting to know other Arts Society members as we chatted over lunch and from the snippets of overheard conversation, members had a really enjoyable day.

Elaine Marriner