Hidden Gems and History: 20 Interesting Facts About London
London, the capital of England, is one of the most fascinating cities in the world, blending rich history with modern innovation. From historic landmarks to unique quirks, here are 20 interesting facts that make London a must-visit destination.
1. London’s Real Name Isn’t London
Did you know that London’s original name was Londinium, given by the Romans around AD 43? The city was a small Roman settlement along the River Thames, and over time, it evolved into the bustling metropolis we know today.
2. Big Ben Isn’t Actually the Tower’s Name
Many believe that Big Ben refers to the clock tower itself, but that’s a misconception. Big Ben is actually the nickname of the Great Bell within the tower, which was renamed Elizabeth Tower in 2012 in honor of Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee.
3. The London Eye Isn’t the World’s Tallest Ferris Wheel
Though the London Eye offers spectacular panoramic views of the city, it's no longer the tallest Ferris wheel globally. Standing at 135 meters (443 feet), it held the record upon completion in 1999 but has since been surpassed by others around the world, including the Ain Dubai.
4. London Has 170 Museums
For culture enthusiasts, London is paradise! With over 170 museums, including the British Museum, Tate Modern, and the Natural History Museum, there’s something for everyone—and many are free to enter.
5. The River Thames Was Once Declared ‘Biologically Dead’
During the 1950s, the River Thames was declared "biologically dead" due to high pollution levels. However, it’s since undergone massive environmental restoration and is now home to over 125 species of fish and a variety of birds and marine life.
6. The Red Double-Decker Buses are a Recent Tradition
Double-decker buses are one of London’s icons, but red wasn’t their original color. The buses were once color-coded by routes, and red only became the standard in 1907 to make navigation simpler.
7. London Underground Isn’t Entirely Underground
The London Underground, or the Tube, is famous worldwide but interestingly, only about 45% of it actually runs underground. The rest of it operates above ground, especially in the suburbs.
8. The Tower of London Was a Royal Zoo
Before it became a tourist destination, the Tower of London served as a royal menagerie, housing exotic animals like lions, elephants, and even polar bears. The zoo eventually closed in 1835, and the animals were moved to the London Zoo.
9. London Boasts the Oldest Underground Railway Network
The London Underground, opened in 1863, is the oldest underground railway in the world. Its first line, the Metropolitan Line, offered a new way of urban travel that has since inspired metro systems globally.
10. Black Cabs Need a 3-Year License
London’s black cab drivers are renowned for their knowledge of the city. To qualify for a license, drivers undergo "The Knowledge," a rigorous test that requires memorizing 25,000+ streets and various routes. Passing can take up to three years.
11. There Are 20 Different Cities Within London
When we think of London, we imagine a single city, but Greater London comprises 32 boroughs, each with its own distinct identity. Plus, two historic cities—the City of London and the City of Westminster—form the central core.
12. The Shard is Europe’s Tallest Building
The Shard, standing at 310 meters (1,017 feet), is the tallest building in Western Europe. Its glass facade allows it to sparkle in sunlight and offers one of the best views of the city from its viewing gallery.
13. Buckingham Palace Has Over 700 Rooms
Buckingham Palace, the primary residence of the British monarch, has a staggering 775 rooms. This includes 188 staff bedrooms, 52 royal and guest bedrooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms.
14. London's Population Speaks Over 300 Languages
London is one of the most linguistically diverse cities in the world. With more than 300 languages spoken by its residents, from Bengali to Yoruba, the city exemplifies multiculturalism at its finest.
15. Over 8 Million People Call London Home
With a population of over 8 million, London is the largest city in the UK and one of the largest in Europe. The city has grown steadily over centuries, becoming an international hub for finance, arts, and culture.
16. The Ghost Stations of London
There are several “ghost stations” along the London Underground—stations that have been closed yet remain preserved as remnants of the past. Aldwych, Down Street, and British Museum stations are some of the most famous abandoned stations.
17. Piccadilly Circus is Not a Circus
Despite its name, Piccadilly Circus has nothing to do with acrobats or clowns. The term "circus" comes from the Latin word for “circle,” as it’s a circular junction known for its digital billboards and vibrant atmosphere.
18. The British Museum Holds Priceless Artifacts
The British Museum, which opened in 1759, houses a treasure trove of artifacts from around the world. Some of its most famous exhibits include the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and Egyptian mummies, attracting millions of visitors each year.
19. Westminster Abbey’s Legendary History
Westminster Abbey has been the site of coronations since 1066 and is the resting place for many British monarchs, poets, scientists, and famous personalities. The tradition and architectural beauty of this Gothic masterpiece make it one of the most iconic buildings in London.
20. London Has the Largest Indian Restaurant Outside of India
The Indian restaurant scene in London is immense, thanks to its large South Asian community. The Madhu’s Heathrow, often cited as the largest Indian restaurant outside of India, exemplifies London's multiculturalism with its grand dining experiences.
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