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EmbankmentMiddle TempleCity of London This and Inner Temple are the home of the barristers who throng the Royal Courts of Justice pleading their clients' causes, and which are collectively known as The Inns of Court The buildings are an eclectic mix of styles: some date from Tudor times and some from the baroque period, but thanks to boming during the Second World War there are several new styles of architecture which somehow blend in very well with the genuine old stuff. The grounds sweep gently down towards the River Thames. There are beds of red and white roses here that bloom in June onwards. It is said that the Wars of the Roses started when nobles from the Houses of York and Lancaster plucked the roses from these gardens to show whose side they were on....... well, it's a nice story!
Middle Temple grounds - photo courtesy SW The buildings surorund lovely courtyards with gardens and fountains, and they include the famous Middle Temple Hall - where Shakespeare's play Twelth Night received its first performance before Queen Elizabeth 1st and her Court. This amazing Hall is the dining hall for barristers from the surrounding chambers, and it contains one of the loveliest hammer beam roofs in London. You may be allowed to have a glimpse inside during the working week - if you are lucky, do not miss the opportunity to do so. Also, don't miss a gentle stroll around the grounds - normally these are only open Monday - Friday in the working week. They can be reached from Fleet Street through the famous old gateway which leads into Middle Temple Lane.
Photo right: Middle Temple Gardens from Embankment - by S Worsfold
Nearest Tube station: Temple - District Line
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