London Guide: Ten Things To Do In The City Of London. London’s financial district, The Square Mile, isn’t all boring office buildings. There are plenty of interesting landmarks and places to explore. My Ten Things To Do In The City Of London List includes St Paul’s, The Monument, Sky Garden and more.
Modern Buildings
Ten Things To Do In The City Of London List
10 Things To Do In The City Of London List
1. Admire the magnificent dome of St Paul’s Cathedral
2. Enjoy panoramic views of London from the top of The Monument
3. Relax in the clouds at the Walkie-Talkie Sky Garden
4. Catch up on culture at the Barbican Centre
5. See the remains of the historic London Wall
6. Instagram London’s amazing modern architecture
7. Browse the Bank of England Museum
8. Treat yourself to luxury products at The Royal Exchange
9. Wine and Dine at Leadenhall Market
10. Eat, drink and shop at Broadgate
Ten Things To Do In The City Of London Details
St Paul’s Cathedral: This striking Sir Christopher Wren designed domed cathedral is one of London’s most stunning landmarks. You can go inside to view the interiors including the underground Crypt and Golden Gallery. Located at St Paul’s Churchyard EC4M 8AD.
St Paul’s Cathedral
The Monument: If you have enough energy it is worth climbing up the 311 steps of The Monument. This was designed by Christopher Wren and Dr Robert Hooke which was completed in 1677. This landmark Portland Stone Fluted Doric Column is a monument to the Great Fire of London. Located at Fish Street Hill EC3R 8AH.
The Monument
Sky Garden: Book a free ticket to a public garden inside a glass dome at the top of the Walkie-Talkie building where you can enjoy the landscaped public gardens, observation decks and open-air terrace. Located at 20 Fenchurch Street EC3M 4BA.
Sky Garden
Barbican Centre: Dance, film, music, theatre and visual arts are all showcased here. With restaurants, bars and an outside terrace, you can enjoy your cultural event. Walkthrough the Barbican Estate where you can admire the famous concrete Brutalist architecture. Located at Silk Street EC2Y 8DS. The Museum of London is also located here and worth visiting (it will be moving in the future).
Barbican Centre
London Wall: Near the Barbican (and at other locations across London) you will see various crumbling brick ruins. These were once a defensive wall built by the Romans around ‘Londinium’ which remained until the 18th century.
London Wall
Modern Architecture: The City of London has a wonderful collection of new skyscraper buildings. A few of my favourites include 30 St Mary Axe (Gherkin), 20 Fenchurch (Walkie-Talkie), The Leadenhall Building (Cheesegrater), and the Lloyd’s Building.
The Gherkin
Bank of England Museum: This beautiful building is the central bank of the UK. Inside you will find a museum which is worth exploring if you are in the area. Located at Threadneedle Street EC2R 8AH.
Bank of England
The Royal Exchange: This historic building was originally used to trade stocks which were the idea of Sir Thomas Gresham. Today, this Grade I listed building is home to designer boutiques. Located at Bank EC3V 3LR (near Bank Station).
The Royal Exchange
Leadenhall Market: Head over to this historic market building which dates back to the 14th century when it sold meat, poultry and game. It now has wine bars, pubs, restaurants, cafes and a few shops to explore. Located at Gracechurch Street EC3V 1LT.
Leadenhall Market
Broadgate: If you are near Liverpool Street Station you can locate Broadgate Circle for a good selection of restaurants without traffic. The Broadgate Estate encompasses public spaces, shops, restaurants and bars. Keep your eyes open for the artwork and events. Located near Liverpool Street Station.
Broadgate Circle
Ten Things To Do In The City Of London Information
The City of London is an interesting place to explore thanks to the juxtaposition of historic grand buildings standing next to modern skyscrapers. This district is very busy during the week with office workers so avoid rush hours and lunchtimes. If you can visit at the weekend you can take your time to investigate the vicinity thoroughly. You will find narrow alleyways with cobbled streets. Pretty churches with tranquil gardens. Many of the buildings have ornate clocks jutting out or lavish decorative detailing. Keep your eyes open for unusual items like the historic well or police telephone which is now used as a public post box. There is so much history in the Square Mile, making this area truly fascinating. Get off the tube or train at Liverpool Street and head towards Bank Station and you’ll see quite a lot of the items I have mentioned. Enjoy your adventure in the amazing City of London. Take a look at my Love City of London Pinterest Board for more pictures.
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London.
