The City of London | A Visitor's Introduction to The City of London

Why is the City of London Worth a Visit?

The City of London is worth visiting for its unique ability to blend nearly 2,000 years of history with cutting-edge modern life. Here you’ll walk Roman walls, visit medieval churches, marvel at futuristic glass towers, and stop for a pint in a pub that’s older than the United States. It’s where London began – the site of Londinium, the Roman settlement founded in the 1st century AD – and it has remained a centre of power and influence ever since.

Today, while the City is best known as one of the world's leading financial centres, it also boasts a surprisingly rich cultural scene, riverside views, hidden gardens, and some of the capital’s most impressive historic sites. Unlike the more residential parts of London, the City is quieter on weekends, making it an ideal time to explore its winding lanes and iconic monuments without the weekday bustle of workers.

City of London Highlights: Things to See and Do in the City of London

St Paul’s Cathedral

Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece, St Paul’s Cathedral is a must-see landmark. With its magnificent dome dominating the skyline, the cathedral has been the site of major national events, including the funeral of Sir Winston Churchill and the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana. Climb the 528 steps to the Golden Gallery for panoramic views over the City, or test the acoustics in the famous Whispering Gallery. Don’t miss the crypt, where Wren himself is buried.

The Tower of London

Technically just at the eastern edge of the City, the Tower of London is one of Britain's most iconic historic sites. Originally built by William the Conqueror, this formidable fortress has served as a royal palace, prison, and treasury. Today, it houses the Crown Jewels and offers guided tours led by the famous Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters). It’s a compelling place to learn about the darker side of British history – think executions, royal scandals, and legendary ravens.

The Monument

Built to commemorate the Great Fire of London in 1666, the Monument is a Doric column standing 61 metres tall – exactly the distance from its base to the site in Pudding Lane where the fire began. You can climb the narrow spiral staircase (311 steps) for a surprisingly good view over the City. It's an ideal stop for anyone interested in London’s dramatic past and a little light exercise.

Leadenhall Market

Dating back to the 14th century and rebuilt in the 19th, Leadenhall Market is a stunning example of Victorian architecture. With its ornate ironwork, glass roof, and cobbled floors, it’s a picturesque spot for shopping or dining. You might also recognise it as a filming location from the Harry Potter films (it stood in for Diagon Alley). Today, it hosts boutique shops, restaurants, and wine bars popular with local office workers.

Sky Garden

Housed atop the “Walkie Talkie” building (20 Fenchurch Street), the Sky Garden offers one of the best free views in London. It’s a lush, indoor garden with floor-to-ceiling windows and a 360-degree viewing terrace. Booking is required, but entry is free. Go early in the morning for a quiet, dramatic sunrise, or book in the evening to watch the city lights come alive.

Guildhall and the City of London Heritage Gallery

Guildhall is the ceremonial heart of the City and has been a centre of power since the Middle Ages. You can visit the stunning medieval Great Hall and the City of London Heritage Gallery, which displays important documents such as Magna Carta. There’s also the Guildhall Art Gallery, which holds a fine collection of Victorian paintings and the ruins of a Roman amphitheatre in the basement.

Bank of England Museum

For a deep dive into the world of finance, the Bank of England Museum offers a look at the institution that has shaped Britain’s economy since 1694. Interactive displays explain everything from banknote printing to inflation. You can even try lifting a real gold bar. It’s free to enter and surprisingly accessible for non-economists.

Roman London: London Mithraeum

The Temple of Mithras, discovered during post-WWII rebuilding and re-excavated in the 2010s, is one of the most evocative remnants of Roman London. Now housed in the Bloomberg building on Walbrook, the site includes a reconstructed Roman temple and a modern interactive exhibit. Entry is free but booking is advisable.

Tower Bridge

Though technically just outside the Square Mile boundary, Tower Bridge is one of the most famous bridges in the world and a key City landmark. You can walk across it for free, or visit the Tower Bridge Experience, which includes access to the high-level glass-floored walkways and engine rooms. It’s a thrilling way to see London from above the Thames.

Barbican Centre

The Barbican is a bold piece of brutalist architecture and a major cultural hub in the City. It houses an arts centre with a theatre, concert hall, cinema, and exhibition space. Whether you're catching a film, a classical concert, or just exploring the atmospheric concrete walkways and fountains, the Barbican is unlike anywhere else in London.

Old Spitalfields Market

Just a short stroll east of the City, this vibrant market is a mix of old and new. The Victorian structure houses street food stalls, vintage clothes vendors, designer shops, and pop-up boutiques. It’s perfect for browsing or grabbing lunch after a morning exploring the City’s historic core.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

The City of London is extremely well connected by public transport:

• Tube stations: St Paul’s (Central Line), Bank and Monument (Central, Northern, DLR), Moorgate, Liverpool Street, and Tower Hill (District & Circle).

• National Rail: Liverpool Street, Fenchurch Street, Cannon Street, and City Thameslink stations all serve the City.

• Walking: The City is very walkable, with much of its charm found in small alleys and historic courtyards.

• Cycling: Cycle hire (Santander bikes) is readily available, with cycle lanes throughout the area.

Parking

Parking in the City is expensive and limited. There are a few public car parks, such as at London Wall or Minories, but they fill up quickly and charge premium rates. Congestion charges and Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) fees also apply. If you must drive, plan ahead and consider park-and-ride options.

Dining

The City offers a surprisingly wide range of food options, from high-end dining to casual bites. Some popular choices include:

• Duck & Waffle – Perched on the 40th floor of the Heron Tower, open 24/7, with incredible city views and inventive dishes.

• 1 Lombard Street – A classy brasserie near Bank Station housed in a former bank building.

• Blacklock City – A favourite for hearty meat dishes and Sunday roasts.

• Ekte Nordic Kitchen – Offering a Scandinavian twist in the Bloomberg Arcade.

• Beigel Bake – If you wander into nearby Brick Lane, this 24-hour bakery is legendary for salt beef bagels.

There are also dozens of historic pubs tucked into side streets, like Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese on Fleet Street or The Counting House on Cornhill, perfect for a pint after sightseeing.

Shopping

The City isn’t a major retail destination, but it does have a few interesting spots:

• Royal Exchange – A luxury shopping arcade near Bank with designer brands and upscale cafés.

• One New Change – A modern shopping centre opposite St Paul’s Cathedral, with high street fashion, restaurants, and a rooftop terrace.

• Leadenhall Market – Beyond its beauty, it offers boutique retail and wine shops.

For serious shopping, you’re a short walk or bus ride from the West End or Shoreditch.

When to Visit

The City is busiest on weekdays, especially during business hours. If you prefer a quieter experience, visit on a weekend, when the streets are less crowded and many landmarks are still open. Some cafés and restaurants may close or reduce hours on Sundays, so check ahead.

• Spring and autumn are ideal, with mild weather and fewer crowds.

• Summer can be lovely, especially for enjoying the Sky Garden or riverside walks.

• Christmas is magical, with twinkling lights and atmospheric pubs, though it’s quieter between Christmas and New Year when many workers are off.

Local Events

• Lord Mayor’s Show (November) – A colourful parade through the City, featuring ceremonial pageantry, marching bands, and fireworks.

• Open House London (September) – Gives access to normally closed buildings across the City, including livery halls, hidden churches, and modern offices.

• City Beerfest (Summer) – Held in Guildhall Yard, this event brings together craft brewers and live music in a historic setting.

Exploring Beyond the City of London

The City is perfectly placed for exploring nearby districts:

• South Bank – Just over the river via Millennium Bridge lies Shakespeare’s Globe, Tate Modern, and Borough Market.

• Shoreditch – A short walk northeast for street art, vintage shopping, and hipster cafés.

• Covent Garden & West End – Head west for theatres, museums, and shopping via the Central Line or on foot.

• Greenwich – A pleasant Thames Clipper boat ride downriver from Tower Pier brings you to maritime Greenwich, home to the Cutty Sark and Royal Observatory.

The City of London is a destination like no other – part open-air museum, part modern metropolis. Whether you’re marvelling at medieval churches, climbing glass towers, or uncovering Roman ruins, the Square Mile rewards the curious traveller with every step. It’s a place where the story of London began – and where it continues to be written every day.