The Temple, situated on the banks of the River Thames, was once
the home of the English Knights Templar, who were based at the Inns Of Court
until 1312. The Temple was then passed on and parts of it were leased to
lawyers. It is a lawyer that is now thought to haunt the courtyards and
passages of this historic place.
Sir
Henry Hawkins, or 'Hanging Hawkins' as he came to be known as, was a
nineteenth century judge who became famous, not because he was unnecessarily
harsh, but because he dealt with so many murder trials that in turn led to
hangings.
The figure that hurries across the courtyard, dressed in
wig and gown and carrying a bundle of papers under his arm, is thought to be
the ghost of Hawkins. His figure has been seen on many occasions particularly
around midnight and during the early hours of the morning.
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