The 450 years since Middle Temple Hall was completed have seen many instances of unruly conduct, rule-breaking, bad manners and even violence taking place under its impressive double hammerbeam roof. This month we look back at this varied history of misbehaviour, from sartorial faux-pas to sword-fighting.
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On the eve of the coronation a new King, we look back at the Middle Temple’s association with a monarch whose Call to the Bench started a new tradition of Royal Benchers being elected at the Inns of Court.
Rules and Guidance
Middle Temple has a gender neutral dress code.
Events in Hall are formal occasions and everyone attending should be appropriately dressed, having regard to the nature of the occasion. If you bring guests, please remember to make them aware of the dress code.
Business Attire
Investigating the historic role of Steward of the Inn, whose primary duties were the provision of commons and the collection of debts from members for commons – a role that sometimes made him unpopular with the membership.
Exploring, through archival records, the stories of the many barristers, students and members of staff of the Middle Temple who fought or participated in the First World War.
Delving into the history of monetary fines at the Inn placed on members and students, with incidents ranging from wearing a hat in Hall to breaking windows.
Illustrating the Inn's well-established and ongoing royal connections, looking at records and objects including a disgruntled letter from King Charles I and a unique silver bowl.
As part of our celebrations of South Asian Heritage Month 2024, this edition looks back at the varied student experience of the Inn’s early Indian members, highlighting the strength of their faith and dedication.
Looking at the dress codes imposed both by the Inn and by external powers on generations of Middle Templars - and their violation.
The history of the Masters of the Bench stretches back to the earliest centuries of the Inn’s existence. This edition gives a brief account of the Inn’s governors, looking back at their expanding categories, historical roles, obligation, privileges and occasional burdens.