Walking through Temple in London, you immediately sense you're entering something different from the rest of the city. This isn't just another historic district – it's a world unto itself, where medieval stones meet modern barristers hurrying between chambers with their distinctive wigs and robes.

The area takes its name from the Knights Templar, who established their precinct here around Temple Church until their suppression in 1312. What they left behind became the foundation for one of England's most important legal centers. Today, Temple houses both the Inner Temple and the Middle Temple, two of the four ancient Inns of Court that have trained lawyers for centuries.

I find it fascinating how this place operates almost like a small city-state within London. The Inns of Court govern themselves, taking over most functions you'd normally expect from the City of London Corporation. It's this autonomy that has helped preserve Temple's unique character through the centuries.

The geography tells its own story. Bounded by the Thames to the south via Victoria Embankment, and hemming close to Fleet Street and the Strand to the north, Temple sits perfectly positioned between the legal world and the river. Temple tube station marks the southwestern edge, making it easily accessible despite feeling wonderfully removed from London's chaos.

Walking these cobbled lanes, you'll spot the magnificent Temple Church at the heart of it all – a rare circular Norman church that's survived since the Templars' time. The surrounding buildings range from medieval halls to Georgian terraces, each housing chambers where some of Britain's most prominent barristers have worked.

The Royal Courts of Justice stand just north, and Temple Bar – that famous gateway between the City of London and Westminster – marks the boundary. It's remarkable how this small precinct has remained central to English law from medieval times right through to today.

Discover all the secrets of Temple with our complete London audio guide to fully appreciate the layers of history beneath your feet. The narrow passages and hidden courtyards hold centuries of legal tradition, and there's something quite special about experiencing a place that has quietly shaped English justice while remaining largely unknown to casual visitors.