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A Tale of Two Dickens: Mark Dickens reads ‘Bleak House’ in Old Hall

On Friday 31 May 2024, Lincoln’s Inn hosted a captivating reading from the first chapter of Charles Dickens’ Bleak House. The reading was delivered by none other than Mark Dickens, the great-great-grandson of Charles Dickens and an authority on the esteemed author.

The event took place in the historic Old Hall, a venue steeped in history, which served as a Chancery Law courtroom from 1717 until 1882. This setting is famously referenced in Bleak House, where Dickens vividly described the High Court of Chancery, albeit rather disparagingly calling it “the most pestilent of hoary sinners”. You can read more about the Inn’s connection to Bleak House in our Tales from the Archive.

If you are curious to explore the rich history of Lincoln’s Inn, consider joining our guided or self-guided tours of the Inn’s unique estate. Visit the Tours section of our website to learn more and plan your visit.