Explore Gresham College and Barnard's Inn Hall at this year's Open House

Gresham College is inviting people to join them for this year's Open House event.

Between Wednesday, 16 September and Friday, 18 September, it will be opening the doors of the historic Barnard's Inn Hall to let people discover the rich history not only of the College, but the Hall itself – which is thought to date back some 700 years, possibly older.

Over the centuries, Barnard's Inn has played numerous roles, including a school and an inn of the Chancery. The latter features in Dickens' Great Expectations, although not very flatteringly. His protagonist, Pip, notes that the Inn houses "dry rot and wet rot and all the silent rots that rot in neglected roof and cellar" – were these caused by a gin leak in the 18th century? 

The facilities have improved since then, and we offer step-free access* and an opportunity to explore the stained-glass windows, Tudor portraits, and the history of the College.

For Open House week, the College will be open between 10am and 4pm on the Wednesday and Friday, and 10am to 3pm on the Thursday. There will be short talks on the history of the College and Inn on Friday, 18 September at 11am, 2pm and 3pm.

Entry is free, and no booking is necessary.

**The main entrance to Barnard’s Inn Hall on High Holborn is temporarily closed due to ongoing maintenance works. Access to the Hall is available via the rear entrance on Fetter Lane. Signage will be in place, and staff will be on hand to assist you. **