/ London Attractions
October 22, 2018
The City of London offers an extraordinary journey through 2,000 years of history packed into just one square mile, making it one of the world's most historically dense areas. This ancient heart of London, distinct from Greater London, houses remarkable City of London attractions that tell the story of Britain's capital from Roman times to the present day. Whether you're a history enthusiast or casual visitor, this historic district promises an unforgettable experience where every street corner holds centuries of stories.
The City of London, often called "the Square Mile," is a unique administrative area that maintains its own government, police force, and traditions dating back over 1,000 years. This fascinating district is where the Romans first established Londinium around 47 AD, building the first bridge across the River Thames that would eventually become modern London Bridge. Today, this area seamlessly blends ancient history with cutting-edge finance, creating a captivating contrast between medieval churches and towering skyscrapers.
While the current London Bridge bears little resemblance to its Roman predecessor, it stands remarkably close to the original crossing point established nearly 2,000 years ago. The Romans chose this location strategically as the narrowest point of the Thames suitable for bridge construction, fundamentally shaping London's development. Archaeological excavations have revealed extensive Roman remains beneath the modern city, including sections of the original Roman wall that once protected Londinium.
Visitors can explore Roman London through various archaeological sites scattered throughout the City. The London Mithraeum, discovered in 1954, showcases a reconstructed Roman temple dedicated to the god Mithras, complete with original artifacts and immersive displays. The remains of the Roman amphitheatre lie beneath the Guildhall Art Gallery, where visitors can walk through the actual arena where gladiators once fought for entertainment.
Standing 202 feet tall in a quiet alleyway off Gracechurch Street, The Monument commemorates one of London's most devastating disasters. The Great Fire of London began on September 2, 1666, in a baker's shop on Pudding Lane, just yards from where The Monument now stands. The fire raged for four days, destroying 13,200 houses, 87 churches, and most of the medieval City of London within the old Roman walls.
Designed by Sir Christopher Wren and Dr. Robert Hooke, The Monument features 311 steps leading to a viewing platform offering panoramic views across London. The structure itself is positioned exactly 202 feet from where the fire started, making its height symbolically significant. Visitors who climb to the top receive a certificate commemorating their achievement.
The medieval City was a tinderbox of timber-framed buildings with thatched roofs, narrow streets, and overhanging upper floors that almost touched across the lanes. Strong easterly winds fanned the flames, while the long, dry summer of 1666 had left buildings particularly vulnerable. The fire's silver lining was the opportunity it provided for Sir Christopher Wren to rebuild London with wider streets, brick construction, and his magnificent churches.
The Tower of London, built by William the Conqueror starting in 1066, represents England's first stone castle and remains one of the world's most famous fortresses. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has served multiple roles throughout its history: royal palace, fortress, prison, mint, armory, and even a zoo. The White Tower, the central keep, showcases Norman architecture at its finest and houses the Royal Armouries' collection of weapons and armor.
The Tower's dark history includes the executions of three queens: Anne Boleyn, Catherine Howard (both wives of Henry VIII), and Lady Jane Grey, the "Nine Days' Queen." The execution site on Tower Green, marked by a glass memorial, draws thousands of visitors annually. The famous Yeoman Warders, known as "Beefeaters," conduct entertaining tours sharing gruesome tales and fascinating historical details.
The Tower houses the Crown Jewels, including St. Edward's Crown used for coronations, the impressive 530-carat Cullinan I diamond in the Sovereign's Sceptre, and the legendary Koh-i-Noor diamond in the Queen Mother's Crown. The Jewel House features moving walkways to manage crowds while allowing visitors to admire these priceless artifacts up close.
Read Also: Fantastic places to go for coffee in LondonSir Christopher Wren's masterpiece, completed in 1710, stands as one of the world's largest cathedrals and dominates London's skyline with its iconic 365-foot dome. Following the Great Fire's destruction of the medieval cathedral, Wren designed this baroque masterpiece that took 35 years to complete. The cathedral survived the Blitz during WWII, becoming a symbol of London's resilience when surrounded by destruction.
Visitors can explore three levels: the Whispering Gallery at 257 steps offers acoustic phenomena where whispers carry across the dome; the Stone Gallery at 378 steps provides external views of London; and the Golden Gallery at 528 steps delivers breathtaking panoramic vistas. The cathedral hosts significant state occasions, including royal weddings and state funerals, most recently Queen Elizabeth II's funeral in 2022.
Located near the Barbican, the Museum of London chronicles the capital's evolution from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum's extensive collection includes Roman artifacts, medieval treasures, and modern exhibits showcasing London's diverse communities. Interactive displays and reconstructed period rooms bring history to life, while temporary exhibitions explore contemporary London issues.
The Bank of England Museum offers fascinating insights into monetary history, from ancient bartering systems to modern digital currencies. Visitors can handle genuine gold bars, explore the evolution of banknote design, and learn about the Bank's role in maintaining financial stability. The museum's reconstruction of the original banking hall, designed by Sir John Soane, showcases 18th-century architectural elegance.
Cheapside has served as the City's primary shopping thoroughfare for over 800 years. The street name derives from the Old English "ceap," meaning market, reflecting its commercial heritage. During medieval times, Cheapside bustled with goldsmiths, creating England's jewelry trade center. Today, modern shops occupy buildings with medieval foundations, maintaining the area's commercial traditions.
The nearby Guildhall, dating from the 15th century, serves as the City's ceremonial center where the Lord Mayor's Show begins each November. This magnificent building combines medieval great hall architecture with modern conference facilities, symbolizing the City's ability to honor tradition while embracing progress.
A logical walking route begins at London Bridge, proceeds to The Monument, continues to the Tower of London, and concludes at St. Paul's Cathedral. This circuit covers approximately 2.5 miles and takes 4-6 hours including attraction visits. Alternative routes can incorporate the Museum of London, Bank of England Museum, and various Wren churches scattered throughout the district.
Most City of London attractions charge admission fees ranging from £10-£30 for adults, with discounts available for students, seniors, and families. Advance booking online often provides savings and guaranteed entry, particularly important for popular attractions like the Tower of London and St. Paul's Cathedral. The City is easily accessible via multiple Underground stations: Bank, Monument, Tower Hill, St. Paul's, and London Bridge.
Weekdays offer the authentic experience of the City as a working financial district, with suited professionals rushing between meetings amid historic buildings. Weekends provide quieter exploration opportunities but fewer dining options as many establishments cater primarily to office workers. Early morning or late afternoon visits often feature better lighting for photography and smaller crowds at major attractions. For those planning an extended stay, there are plenty of South Kensington hotels offering convenient access to central London while combining luxury, comfort, and proximity to other famous landmarks.
The City of London attractions offer an unparalleled journey through British history, from Roman foundations to medieval marvels, from royal palaces to architectural masterpieces. This remarkable square mile demonstrates how ancient history and modern life can coexist, creating a unique urban environment where 2,000 years of human achievement remain visible and accessible. Whether you're fascinated by royal scandals, architectural innovation, or financial history, the City of London provides unforgettable experiences that illuminate Britain's rich heritage while showcasing its dynamic present.
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