Understand
The City of London may be small, but it has a rich history and unique governance. Its borders have remained unchanged for centuries, following the line of the old city walls. Although most of the walls have disappeared, remnants can still be seen near the Museum of London and the Tower of London. The city gates, such as Aldgate and Moorgate, serve as reminders of the past. Unlike other London boroughs, the City of London has its own local governance. The City of London Corporation oversees the city, and its highest position is held by the Lord Mayor. The city even has its own police force, separate from the Metropolitan Police. While many iconic landmarks, like Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, are not within the City of London, the city is still connected to the rest of London through various bridges over the River Thames. In fact, some bridges, like London Bridge and Blackfriars Bridge, have the City's boundaries extending over the entire span of the bridge. Keep an eye out for small statues of dragons that mark the city's boundaries on most roads. Most famously, the City of London is the global hub of international finance. It is home to numerous financial institutions, including the Bank of England, Lloyds, and the London Stock Exchange. Every weekday, hundreds of thousands of workers make their way to the City to contribute to its thriving business and financial sectors. Despite its small resident population, the City of London has seen a revitalization in recent years. Once a ghost town on weekends, it now buzzes with activity. Visitors come to explore the London Museum, The Barbican Centre, and St Paul's Cathedral. They marvel at the grand buildings and institutions, shop at New Change, enjoy the nightlife in Smithfield, and indulge in the vibrant restaurant and bar scene. While the City might not be the best place for late-night hangouts, exploring its surroundings, from the Millenium Bridge to the Tate Modern and Shakespeare's Globe, Tower Bridge, and the Tower of London, makes for a truly memorable visit.
Comments
NO COMMENTS