London, a city with an illustrious history stretching back over millennia, is a place where the past and present seamlessly intertwine. It’s a city of contrasts, where ancient traditions meet modern innovations, and where every street corner has a story to tell. From its infamous gin craze to the bizarre quirks of its streets, London is full of captivating tales that make it one of the most intriguing cities in the world. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these 57 fascinating facts about London will give you a new appreciation for the capital.
Editorial & Affiliate Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone. Since I share great London activities with awesome people like you, naturally, my content may contain affiliate links for products, shows, tours, and other activities I do and love. Take action (i.e., subscribe, make a purchase); after clicking one of these links, I’ll earn some coffee money I promise to drink while creating more helpful content like this.
The Great Fire of London: Four Days of Devastation
In 1666, just a year after the Great Plague ravaged London, the city faced another disaster: the Great Fire. The blaze started in a bakery on Pudding Lane and quickly spread, engulfing much of the medieval city. Over four days, the fire destroyed 13,200 houses, 80 churches, and left over 100,000 people homeless. Remarkably, only six deaths were officially recorded, though the actual number was likely higher. This catastrophe reshaped London’s architecture, leading to the modern cityscape we recognize today.
London’s Underworld: The Grim Secrets Beneath Aldgate Station
Beneath the bustling streets of London, particularly at Aldgate Underground Station, lies a dark and eerie history. The station is built on what was once a mass burial site for victims of the Great Plague. Over 1,000 corpses are interred beneath the station, a grim reminder of the city’s long history of death and disease. Today, millions of commuters pass through Aldgate, often unaware of the grim secrets hidden below.
The Great Stink of 1858: The Crisis that Transformed London’s Sewage System
In the summer of 1858, London’s rivers and streets were overwhelmed by an unbearable odor known as the Great Stink. The Thames, choked with raw sewage, emitted a stench so foul that it disrupted parliamentary sessions and caused widespread illness. This crisis forced the city to overhaul its sewage system, leading to the construction of the modern infrastructure that still serves London today. The Great Stink was a pivotal moment in public health, transforming London from a city plagued by filth into one of the world’s most advanced urban centers.
Benjamin Franklin’s London Residence: A Piece of American History in the Capital
Tucked away at 36 Craven Street, near Charing Cross Station, is the only surviving home of Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. Franklin lived in this modest Georgian house from 1757 to 1775 while serving as a diplomat. Today, the house is a museum that offers a fascinating glimpse into Franklin’s life and his contributions to both British and American history. Visitors can explore the rooms where Franklin lived and worked, making it a unique historical site in the heart of London.
The Silent Ceremony: Inducting the Lord Mayor of London
In the heart of the City of London, a curious and ancient tradition takes place each year—the Silent Ceremony, where the Lord Mayor of London is inducted into office. Despite the significance of the event, the ceremony is conducted almost entirely without words. The incoming Lord Mayor takes an oath, but the rest of the event is characterized by silence, with officials using gestures to complete the proceedings. This solemn occasion is followed by the much more public and lively Lord Mayor’s Show, a vibrant parade through the streets of London.
The Bizarre Beer Flood of 1814: A Tragedy Drowned in Ale
Imagine a tidal wave of beer sweeping through the streets—this was the reality for residents near Tottenham Court Road in 1814 when a vat at the Meux & Company Brewery exploded. The accident unleashed over 1.4 million liters of beer, causing a flood that demolished two homes and killed eight people, including mourners at a nearby wake. The London Beer Flood is a tragic but fascinating chapter in the city’s history, a reminder of the unexpected dangers of urban life.
Harrods’ Dark Wartime Offering: The Soldier’s “Shooting Up” Kit
During World War I, the prestigious Harrods department store sold a controversial gift set intended for soldiers heading to the front lines. The kit included morphine, cocaine, and syringes—substances intended to help soldiers cope with the horrors of war. While this might seem shocking today, at the time, such drugs were commonly used for medical purposes. The kit highlights the desperation and harsh realities of war, contrasting sharply with Harrods’ modern image of luxury and sophistication.
London’s Gin Craze: The City’s Wildest Love Affair with Spirits
In the 18th century, London experienced what can only be described as a gin epidemic. Known as the Gin Craze, this period saw the city’s residents consuming gin at astonishing rates—averaging two pints per week per person, including children. The craze began after Parliament deregulated the distilling industry to address a surplus of corn, leading to an explosion of cheap gin on the market. The social consequences were dire, with widespread drunkenness and disorder until stricter laws were passed to curb the chaos.
The Philpot Lane Mice: London’s Smallest Statue with a Tragic Backstory
Hidden away on Philpot Lane, near the Monument, is London’s smallest statue—two tiny mice nibbling on a piece of cheese. This minuscule sculpture commemorates a tragic incident where two builders fell to their deaths after arguing over a stolen sandwich. Later, it was discovered that the sandwich had likely been stolen by a mouse. The Philpot Lane Mice is a tiny, poignant reminder of the often-overlooked stories woven into the fabric of London’s history.
Trafalgar Square’s Pigeon Problem: From Feathered Foes to a Clean-Up Victory
Trafalgar Square was once overrun with pigeons, a situation so dire that by 2003, former mayor Ken Livingstone made it illegal to feed them. The move was part of a larger effort to clean up the square, which had become notorious for its pigeon population and the mess they left behind. Today, Trafalgar Square is a much cleaner, more welcoming place, though a few pigeons still manage to hang around, much to the amusement of tourists.
The Lord Mayor’s Request: The King’s Formal Entry into the City of London
In a tradition steeped in history, the King cannot simply enter the City of London at will. He must first seek permission from the Lord Mayor through a formal ceremony at Temple Bar. This ritual, known as the King’s Request, underscores the unique relationship between the Crown and the City, reflecting centuries of mutual respect and autonomy. Even in modern times, this ceremony is a reminder of the deep historical roots that continue to shape London’s governance.
The Tower Ravens: Guardians of London’s Most Famous Fortress
According to legend, the Tower of London* will fall if its resident ravens ever leave. To prevent this dire prophecy, the Tower’s Ravenmaster clips the wings of at least six ravens, ensuring they remain within the fortress walls. This tradition has been maintained for centuries and is one of the many quirky customs that make London such a fascinating place. The ravens are well cared for, and their presence adds to the mystique of this historic site.
Lundenwic to London: A City’s Journey Through Time
London, as we know it today, has undergone numerous transformations over the centuries. In its early days, it was known as Londinium under the Romans and later as Lundenwic during the Anglo-Saxon period. The city has evolved from a small settlement on the banks of the Thames into a sprawling metropolis, each era leaving its mark on London’s character and architecture. This journey through time is what makes London a city of endless discovery, where every corner holds a piece of history.
The London Eye’s Capsules: A Tribute to the City’s Boroughs
The London Eye*, one of the capital’s most iconic landmarks, features 32 capsules—one for each of the 32 boroughs of London. These capsules offer stunning views of the city, allowing visitors to take in the vast expanse of London from above. Interestingly, the capsules are numbered from 1 to 33, with number 13 omitted due to superstition. This detail is a small but telling example of how even modern attractions in London are steeped in tradition.
The Shard: A Glass Giant in London’s Skyline
Standing tall at 1,016 feet, The Shard* is the tallest building in London and a prominent feature of the city’s skyline. Composed of 11,000 panels of glass, it gleams in the sunlight, visible from almost every part of the capital. The Shard is not just a marvel of modern architecture but also a symbol of London’s continued growth and development. Inside, it houses offices, restaurants, and a luxury hotel, making it a bustling hub of activity and commerce.
The Forgotten Pubs of London’s Underground Stations
Did you know that five of London’s Underground stations are named after pubs? These include The Angel, Royal Oak, Elephant & Castle, Manor House, and Swiss Cottage. The tradition of naming stations after nearby landmarks, particularly pubs, reflects the integral role these establishments have played in the social life of Londoners. These stations serve as a reminder of the city’s long history of public houses, which have been central to community life for centuries.
London’s Museums: A Treasure Trove of History and Culture
London is home to more than 170 museums, each offering a unique window into the city’s rich history and culture. From the world-renowned British Museum to the quirky Museum of London, there’s something for everyone. These institutions preserve the artifacts and stories that have shaped London over the centuries, making them essential destinations for anyone interested in the city’s past. With many offering free entry, London’s museums are accessible to all, ensuring that the city’s history is shared and celebrated.
King Henry III’s Polar Bear: A Royal Oddity at the Tower of London
In the 13th century, King Henry III received a rather unusual gift—a polar bear. The bear was kept at the Tower of London, where it was allowed to swim in the Thames, tethered by a chain. This strange royal pet is a reminder of the exotic and often bizarre gifts that were exchanged between monarchs and dignitaries in medieval times. The Tower of London*, now known for its ravens and Crown Jewels, once housed a menagerie of wild animals, including lions and elephants.
The Knowledge: London’s Ultimate Test for Black Cab Drivers
Becoming a licensed black cab driver in London is no easy feat. Aspiring cabbies must pass The Knowledge, a rigorous test that requires memorizing over 300 routes and countless landmarks across the city. This process can take two to three years of intensive study and practice. Once they’ve passed, London’s black cab drivers are renowned for their ability to navigate the city’s complex streets without relying on GPS. The Knowledge is a testament to the skill and dedication of these drivers, who are a vital part of London’s transport system.
The City of London’s Unique Governance: The Silent Ceremony and Beyond
The City of London, often referred to as the Square Mile, has a unique system of governance that includes the annual Silent Ceremony. During this event, the new Lord Mayor is sworn in with minimal words, following traditions that date back centuries. The City also maintains other archaic practices, such as the role of Sheriffs and the Constable’s Dues—a ceremony where a navy ship must offer a barrel of rum to the Tower of London* to enter the Port of London. These traditions highlight the City’s deep-rooted independence and its importance as a financial and cultural hub.
The London Underground: A Mix of Subterranean and Surface Tracks
Despite being known as the Underground, over half of London’s Tube network actually runs above ground. This is a legacy of the system’s early days when steam trains required open air to vent their steam. Today, only 45% of the network’s stations are truly subterranean, with the Metropolitan Line having the fewest underground stations. This blend of above-ground and below-ground tracks is part of what makes the London Underground unique, offering passengers a varied experience as they travel across the city.
The Blitz: London’s Unbreakable Spirit During World War II
During World War II, London endured the Blitz, a relentless bombing campaign by the German Luftwaffe. For 57 consecutive nights starting in September 1940, the city was bombarded, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. Over 30,000 Londoners died as a result of these attacks, and much of the city was reduced to rubble. Despite the devastation, the people of London remained resilient, their determination and courage becoming a symbol of the city’s unbreakable spirit.
The London Beer Flood: A Strange and Tragic Accident
In 1814, an industrial accident at the Meux & Company Brewery resulted in a catastrophic beer flood. A massive vat of beer burst, releasing over 1.4 million liters of beer into the streets near Tottenham Court Road. The flood caused the deaths of eight people and significant property damage. The incident is a reminder of the unexpected dangers of industrial life in 19th-century London, where such accidents were not uncommon.
The Savoy’s Unique Driving Rule: The Exception to the Left-Side Rule
In the UK, driving on the left is the law—except for one small road leading from The Savoy hotel* to The Strand. Here, drivers are required to drive on the right, a unique quirk of London’s road system. This exception is designed to facilitate easier access to the hotel and manage the flow of traffic more efficiently. The Savoy’s driving rule is a small but intriguing example of how London’s traditions and practicalities often intersect in unexpected ways.
The Olympic Legacy: London’s Record-Breaking Hosting of the Games
London holds the distinction of being the only city in the world to have hosted the Olympic Games three times—in 1908, 1948, and 2012. Each of these events left a lasting legacy on the city, from the construction of iconic sporting venues to the development of new infrastructure. The 1908 Olympics were particularly notable for their duration, lasting an unprecedented 187 days. London’s Olympic history is a testament to the city’s ability to host major international events and its ongoing commitment to sports and culture.
The Changing Face of London’s Streets: From Cock Lane to Shiteburn Lane
London’s street names have long reflected the city’s history and character. Cock Lane in Farringdon, for example, was once the only street licensed for prostitution, while other streets like Shiteburn Lane and Gropecunt Lane were so named for their unsavory activities. Over time, some of these more explicit names have been changed, reflecting changing social norms and sensibilities. However, remnants of this colorful past can still be found in the city’s streets, offering a glimpse into London’s less refined history.
Paddington’s Fake Houses: A Clever Disguise for the Tube
In the Paddington neighborhood, two houses on Leinster Gardens are not what they seem. These “homes” are actually fake facades, built to hide a section of the Metropolitan Line. The original houses were demolished to make way for the Tube, and the facades were constructed to maintain the appearance of the street. This clever piece of urban camouflage has even appeared in the TV series Sherlock, highlighting London’s knack for blending the old with the new in unexpected ways.
The Tower of London: A Fortress with a Dark and Storied Past
The Tower of London is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, with a history that dates back nearly 1,000 years. Originally built as a royal palace, the Tower has served as a prison, a treasury, and even a zoo. Its dark history includes the execution of famous figures like Anne Boleyn and the mysterious disappearance of the Princes in the Tower. Today, the Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the Crown Jewels, attracting millions of visitors each year.
The Great Plague of 1665: London’s Deadliest Epidemic
The Great Plague of 1665 was one of the deadliest epidemics in London’s history, claiming the lives of over 100,000 people—nearly a quarter of the city’s population at the time. The plague spread rapidly through the city, fueled by warm weather and poor sanitation. The epidemic finally subsided as winter approached, but it left a lasting scar on London, which was further compounded by the Great Fire of London the following year.
The Ravenmaster’s Duty: Protecting London’s Tower Ravens
The Ravenmaster at the Tower of London has a unique and important job—caring for the Tower’s resident ravens. According to legend, if the ravens ever leave the Tower, both the fortress and the Kingdom will fall. To prevent this, the Ravenmaster carefully tends to the birds, clipping their wings to keep them grounded. This tradition, while based on superstition, is taken very seriously and adds to the Tower’s mystique as one of London’s most historic and fascinating sites.
Guy Fawkes Night: Celebrating the Failure of the Gunpowder Plot
Every November 5th, Londoners and people across the UK celebrate Guy Fawkes Night with bonfires and fireworks. This tradition commemorates the foiling of the Gunpowder Plot in 1605, when Guy Fawkes and his fellow conspirators attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament. The plot was discovered just in time, and Fawkes was captured and executed. Today, the night is marked by vibrant celebrations, with London hosting some of the country’s most spectacular fireworks displays.
The First Underground Concept: A Network of Rivers
Before the London Underground as we know it was established, early proposals for a subterranean transport system included some rather unusual ideas. One concept involved a network of underground rivers, with commuter barges floating between stops. While this idea was never realized, it demonstrates the creative thinking that has always characterized London’s approach to solving its transportation challenges. The Underground, when it eventually opened in 1863, became the world’s first subway system, setting the standard for urban transport worldwide.
The Square Mile: London’s Financial Powerhouse
The City of London, often referred to as the Square Mile, is the historical and financial heart of the capital. Covering just one square mile, it is home to some of the world’s most important financial institutions, including the Bank of England and the London Stock Exchange. Despite its small size, the City of London wields immense economic power, contributing significantly to the UK’s GDP. The Square Mile is also steeped in history, with landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London within its boundaries.
The Royal Standard: A Sign of the Monarch’s Presence
Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch, flies a very specific flag when the King is at home—the Royal Standard. This flag, which features a yellow background with a red dragon, indicates that the monarch is in residence. If the Union Jack is flying instead, it means the King is away. This tradition allows both locals and visitors to know whether the monarch is present, adding an element of accessibility to the otherwise secluded royal life.
Great Ormond Street Hospital and Peter Pan: A Legacy of Charity
In 1929, J.M. Barrie, the author of Peter Pan, made an extraordinary gift to Great Ormond Street Hospital—he donated the copyright to his beloved story. This gift has provided the hospital with a steady stream of income for nearly a century, helping fund the care of countless children. The connection between Peter Pan and Great Ormond Street is a heartwarming example of how literature can make a real difference in the world, ensuring that Barrie’s legacy lives on through the work of the hospital.
The Square Mile’s Orchestral Legacy: Six Major Ensembles
London is often celebrated for its cultural richness, and this is particularly evident in its orchestral tradition. The city is home to six major orchestras, including the Royal Philharmonic, London Philharmonic, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Philharmonia, Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, and the London Symphony Orchestra. These ensembles perform in prestigious venues across the city, contributing to London’s reputation as a global center for classical music. Whether you’re a seasoned concert-goer or a newcomer, London’s orchestras offer an unparalleled musical experience.
The London Eye: A View of the City’s Boroughs from Above
The London Eye, with its 32 capsules, offers breathtaking views of the city. Each capsule represents one of London’s 32 boroughs, symbolizing the unity and diversity of the capital. A ride on the Eye provides a unique perspective on the city, allowing visitors to see landmarks like the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace*, and the River Thames* from above. The London Eye* has become one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing millions of visitors each year.
Trafalgar Square’s Norwegian Christmas Tree: A Gift of Friendship
Since 1947, Norway has gifted a Christmas tree to London each year as a token of gratitude for Britain’s support during World War II. The tree is carefully selected and shipped to Trafalgar Square, where it stands as a symbol of the enduring friendship between the two nations. The lighting of the tree is a highlight of London’s Christmas season, attracting visitors from around the world who come to admire the festive display.
The Romans Established Londinium in AD 43
London’s roots can be traced back to AD 43 when the Romans established Londinium as a trading settlement on the north bank of the Thames. The city quickly grew into an important commercial center, thanks to its strategic location. The Roman influence is still evident in London today, with remnants of ancient walls and roads visible in certain parts of the city. Londinium laid the foundation for what would become one of the world’s most influential cities.
London’s Underground: The World’s Oldest Subway System
The London Underground, affectionately known as the Tube, is the oldest subway system in the world. It began operations in 1863, initially powered by steam trains before transitioning to electric trains in 1890. The Underground has grown into an extensive network that serves millions of passengers daily, connecting the city’s boroughs and beyond. The Tube is not just a means of transportation but also an integral part of London’s identity, with its iconic map and station signs recognized worldwide.
London Buses: Covering 12,000 Times the Circumference of the Earth
London’s bus network is one of the most extensive in the world, with over 9,000 buses serving 675 routes and 19,000 bus stops. Each year, London buses collectively travel more than 300 million miles—equivalent to circling the Earth over 12,000 times. This staggering statistic highlights the scale of London’s public transport system, which plays a crucial role in keeping the city moving. Whether you’re a commuter or a tourist, London’s red buses are an iconic and essential part of the city’s daily life.
London’s Bedlam Asylum: A Dark Chapter in the City’s History
Once one of London’s most notorious institutions, Bedlam Asylum was infamous for its brutal treatment of the mentally ill. During the 18th century, the asylum became a popular tourist attraction, with visitors paying to watch the patients, often treated more like exhibits than people. Today, Bedlam is remembered as a symbol of the harsh conditions faced by the mentally ill in the past. The institution, now known as Bethlem Royal Hospital, has evolved into a modern psychiatric facility in Beckenham, with a Museum of the Mind dedicated to its history.
The Busiest Underground Station: King’s Cross St Pancras
King’s Cross St Pancras is the busiest station on London’s Underground network, with nearly 70 million passengers passing through its gates annually. This major transport hub connects the city with the rest of the UK and Europe, making it a vital artery in London’s transport system. The station’s iconic architecture and bustling atmosphere make it a landmark in its own right, serving as both a gateway and a symbol of London’s status as a global city.
London’s Population: More Than Austria and Beyond
London’s population has grown to over 9.5 million people, making it more populous than entire countries such as Austria, Israel, and Switzerland. If London were an independent nation, it would rank as the 95th most populous in the world. This demographic scale highlights the city’s global significance, attracting people from all over the world to live, work, and visit. London’s population diversity is one of its greatest strengths, contributing to its vibrant culture and dynamic economy.
The Great Plague: London’s Deadliest Epidemic
The Great Plague of 1665 was one of the deadliest epidemics in London’s history, claiming the lives of over 100,000 people—nearly a quarter of the city’s population at the time. The plague spread rapidly through the city, fueled by warm weather and poor sanitation. The epidemic finally subsided as winter approached, but it left a lasting scar on London, which was further compounded by the Great Fire of London the following year.
The London Zoo’s Dark History: Feeding the Lions
London Zoo, now a world-renowned center for wildlife conservation, had a much darker past. In the 18th century, when it was housed in the Tower of London, visitors could gain free entry by bringing along a dog or cat to feed to the lions. This gruesome practice highlights the stark differences between the zoo’s early days and its modern mission to protect and preserve endangered species. The zoo’s transformation reflects London’s broader evolution from a city of harsh realities to one of progressive values.
The London Bridge Mix-Up: A Myth Debunked
A persistent urban legend claims that American tycoon Robert McCulloch, who purchased London Bridge in 1967, thought he was buying the more iconic Tower Bridge. The story goes that McCulloch was disappointed when the bridge was reassembled in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, only to realize it wasn’t the ornate landmark he had envisioned. However, this tale is just that—a myth. McCulloch always intended to buy London Bridge, and the mix-up story was likely fabricated to add a humorous twist to the transaction.
The Ceremony of the Constable’s Dues: A Quirky London Tradition
In a tradition dating back centuries, a navy boat must pay a barrel of rum to the Constable of the Tower of London to enter the Port of London. This ceremony, known as the Constable’s Dues, is surrounded by pomp and circumstance, with participants dressed in historical costumes. The ritual is a reminder of London’s rich maritime history and its love for tradition and pageantry. While the ceremony may seem quaint, it highlights the city’s deep connection to its past, even in the modern age.
The Royal Standard: A Sign of the Monarch’s Presence
Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch, flies a very specific flag when the King is at home—the Royal Standard. This flag, which features a yellow background with a red dragon, indicates that the monarch is in residence. If the Union Jack is flying instead, it means the King is away. This tradition allows both locals and visitors to know whether the monarch is present, adding an element of accessibility to the otherwise secluded royal life.
London Has Been Inhabited Since 4000 BC
London’s history stretches back thousands of years, with evidence of human habitation in the area as far back as 4000 BC. Early settlers were attracted to the Thames River, which provided a vital source of water and a means of transportation. Over the millennia, London has grown from a small settlement into one of the world’s most important cities, a transformation that is reflected in its diverse architecture and vibrant culture.
London Has a Forest of Trees: A Green Urban Jungle
London might be known as a bustling metropolis, but it also qualifies as a forest under the United Nations’ definition due to the sheer number of trees within the city limits. With more than 8 million trees, London boasts an impressive amount of greenery, providing a habitat for wildlife and contributing to the city’s air quality. The presence of so many trees also offers residents and visitors a welcome respite from the urban environment, making London a city where nature and development coexist.
The Underground Rivers That Never Were
Before London decided to use good old trains, ideas for the underground included a series of underground rivers with commuter barges that would float between pre-designated stops. Sounds a lot more peaceful than the Central Line during rush hour.
London Still Has Sheriffs
London’s tradition of having Sheriffs dates all the way back to the 7th century and it’s still going strong. They’re not sheriffs in the way that you might think – protecting the city from evildoers in the style of a John Wayne Western – the Sheriffs have to carry out the instructions of the High Court of Justice and support the Lord Mayor. Their jurisdiction only extends across the City of London (Square Mile).
The Ever-Enchanting London
London is a city like no other, with a history as rich and varied as the people who call it home. From its ancient traditions to its modern quirks, London never fails to fascinate and surprise. Whether you’re exploring its hidden corners or simply soaking in its vibrant atmosphere, there’s always something new to discover in this incredible city.
