November 18, 2025
UK Property Market / Manchester
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Introduction & Overview
The City of London, often called the Square Mile, is the heart of London’s financial and historic core. While its skyline is defined by soaring office towers, its streets are steeped in centuries of history, from Roman Londinium, medieval alleyways, and the Georgian grandeur of Sir Christopher Wren’s St Paul’s Cathedral.
Despite being one of the world’s most important business districts, the City is evolving into a more mixed-use neighbourhood, with growing residential populations and amenities that make it more than just a place to work.
The City of London, often referred to simply as the City, is a historic and financial district within London, England. It is the oldest part of London and originally formed the city’s Roman settlement. Today, the City is a major financial center, home to the London Stock Exchange, several banks, financial institutions, and corporate headquarters.
About City of London
The City of London – also known as ‘the City’ or ‘The Square Mile’ – is an area of the capital stretching along the north bank of the Thames, from the legal districts of Temple and Chancery Lane to the Tower of London. To the north, it extends roughly as far as the Barbican. This thriving historic district began its rise to become a major centre for business and finance in medieval times.
Key Attractions & Transportation Options
Places to visit in the City of London include St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, the Museum of London, the Bank of England Museum, and Leadenhall and Smithfield markets. The Barbican Theatre offers a full cultural programme, while the Fabric nightclub is renowned for cutting-edge electronic dance music.
City tube stations include Aldgate, Bank, Barbican, Blackfriars, Cannon Street, Chancery Lane, Liverpool Street, Monument, Moorgate, St Paul’s, and Tower Hill. Alternatively, you can catch train services travelling south and east from Blackfriars, City Thameslink, Cannon Street, Liverpool Street, Moorgate, and Old Street stations. Living in the City of London means you’ll be in the Central London Congestion Zone, but as a resident, you can expect a substantial discount if you drive.
Shopping & Entertainment
The Barbican Centre is a world-class arts venue, showcasing music, dance, theatre, film, and visual arts. It also features several restaurants, bars, and cafés, some of which offer views over its wonderfully peaceful lake.
Elsewhere in the City, there are dining options to suit every taste and budget, from Michelin-starred restaurants and classy wine bars to traditional pubs and greasy spoons. Additionally, there are several street markets, including Whitecross Street, which is well-known to City workers for its delicious food stalls.
Cheapside is the main shopping street in the City, where you will find most of the usual high street chains. One New Change, located at the St Paul’s end of Cheapside, is a relatively new shopping centre with some flagship fashion brands, restaurants, and a rooftop terrace.
The Royal Exchange in Bank offers a more exclusive shopping experience, while Leadenhall Market, with its cobbled streets, has a traditional City feel and is home to some well-known brands as well as interesting restaurants and bars.
