The buildings and gardens house an active, working society of barristers and judges. Law students still have to dine "in Hall" a requisite number of times during the year in order to qualify to be "called to the Bar".

Originally established as a hostel for those studying law early in the 14th century, Lincoln’s Inn probably takes its name from Henry de Lacy, third Earl of Lincoln (died 1311). From early on, it provided all that was needed for the new race of professional lawyers : chambers in which to live and work, a hall for eating and drinking, a chapel in which to worship, and a library in which to research and consult legal texts.

The Halls and public rooms of Lincoln's Inn are steeped in tradition, providing a sumptuous backdrop for all kinds or size of banquets, celebrations of family events, corporate receptions, concerts or meetings.

They house a huge collection of paintings and armorial bearings, bearing the image and name of such illustrious members of the Inn as Sir Thomas More, John Donne, William Penn, William Pitt, Cardinal Newman and Margaret Thatcher. The panelled walls, stained-glass windows and impressive galleries lend opulence to any event.