Gardenvisit.com The Garden Guide

Book: London Parks and Gardens, 1907
Chapter: Chapter 11 Inns of Court

Entrance Gates to Grays Inn Gardens

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The entrance to the Gardens on the Holborn side is through massive wrought-iron gates, on which the date 1723 is legible. The letters "W. I. G." are the initials of the Treasurer during whose tenure of office they were erected, the "T" above standing for Treasurer. In the Inns of Chancery a "P" for Principal, associated with the various initials, is often to be noticed. These fine gates are a charming approach to the sequestered walks and ancient trees. Gray's Inn Gardens have another delightful speciality, in that the rooks delight to honour them by building there. They have a warm welcome, and good food in cold weather, and seem likely to remain. Looking through the lofty iron gates, the rooks' nests are seen, and the pleasant cawing sound adds greatly to the attraction of the place.