100 fun facts about London
π― London is a very fun place to live, here are 100 fun facts about the city you could call home.
London is one of the most exciting cities in the world, with its rich history, iconic landmarks, and diverse cultural scene. As one of the most popular cities for people to move to, it's easy to see why London continues to draw in newcomers from around the world. Whether you're a seasoned Londoner or a newcomer to the city, there's always something new to discover. In this article, we've compiled 100 fun facts about London that will give you a deeper insight into the city's fascinating history, quirks, and traditions. From hidden gems to famous landmarks, these fun facts are sure to impress even the most seasoned Londoner.
β
Immigration fun facts about London
Moving to a new country can be both exciting and overwhelming, and if you're considering immigration to London, it's important to be aware of some fun and interesting facts about the city to help you feel more at home.
β
37%Β of London's residents were born outside theΒ UK π¬
According to data from the Office for National Statistics, in 2020, an estimated 36.4% of London's population were born outside the UK helping to make it one of the most international cities in the world.
β
London is the 6th biggest French city π«π·
The French consulate in London estimates between 300,000 and 400,000 French citizens live in the capital.
β
London is the 3rd biggest Greek city π¬π·
Despite Brexit, it has been reported that 300,000 Greek people live in London. Athens has the biggest population in Greece with 729,137 people, followed by ThessalonΓki with 354,290 people.
β
The 1st ship of the Windrush generation arrived at Tilbury Docks in East London π―π²
Empire Windrush arrived on 22nd June, 1948 bringing the 1,027 Caribbean people to the UK to start a new life post-WWII.
β
London residents want to welcome more immigrants π€
The UK's conservative government's immigration policies have been a topic of much debate in recent years, but many Londoners have advocated for more inclusive policies that welcome immigrants to the city.
β
β
Population fun facts about London
London is one of the most populous cities in the world, with a vibrant and diverse population that has shaped its history and culture.
β
There are over 300 languages spoken in London π£
Making it the most linguistically diverse city in the world.
β
If London were a country, it would be the 94th largest country in the world π
According to the WorloMeters, London's estimated population of 9.6 million is larger than that of countries such as Austria, Israel, Iceland, and Barbados, among others.
β
21.7 million tourists visit London every year
According to data from the Office for National Statistics, in 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic, London welcomed 21.7 million international visitors.
β
44.1% of Londonβs adult population classify themselves as singleβ€οΈπ₯
Which is great news for those who are ready to mingle.
β
Over the year, tourists outnumber locals π―
Around 21 million people visit London each year whilst the population of London is only 9 million. Thats more than double the population...
β
β
Historical fun facts about London
From ancient Romans to medieval Kings and Queens, London is one of the most historically important cities on Earth.
β
The Roman Empire used to rule Londinium (London) π
Roman rule can be traced back to 43CE when the Roman army conquered Britain. To the Romans, the capital was called Londinium.
β
There is a sunken USΒ ship in the river Thames that contains 1,400 tonnes of unexploded bombs π£
The ship sank in 1944 and its cargo of bombs was never fully recovered, making it a potential hazard to this day.
β
There are six ravens in the Tower of London at all times πͺΆ
Legend has it that the Tower of London will fall if there arenβt at least six ravens in it at any given time.
β
1,000+ dead bodies are buried underneath Aldgate underground station π
It's believed that the discovered bodies were victims of the Great Plague of London, also known as the Bubonic Plague.
β
Several displaced European governments moved to London during WWII π
The governments included; Poland, Norway, Belgium, France, and Holland, making London the capital of six different countries at the same time.
β
β
Transportation fun facts about London
With one of the most iconic transportation systems in the world, London is a city with a rich and diverse transportation system, and it's no secret that getting around can be an adventure in itself.
β
The Metropolitan line is the oldest subway line in the world π
The Metropolitan Railway opened in January 1863 and was an immediate success, though it's construction took nearly two years and caused huge disruption in the streets.
β
Most of the London Underground runs overground βοΈ
In the early days of the underground, lines needed to be near the surface to allow steam trains to vent the built-up steam when they emerged into the open air. Little did they imagine how grateful weβd be for the snatched opportunities for phone signal when the train pops up into the open air.
β
The longest escalator is Angel at 60 metres π
The escalator takes around 50 seconds to ride from top to bottom and will take you to the Northern line.
β
Heathrow airport has 5 terminals, but no terminal 1 π«
Terminals 2, 3, 4 and 5 all exist, but the old Terminal 1 closed in 2015 to make space for the expansion of Terminal 2.
β
Black cabs don't have sat nav π
London black cab drivers have all passed a test called "The Knowledge" which requires them to memorise the streets and landmarks of central London, including the best route between any two points.It takes somewhere between two and four years to learn and pass the written and oral examinations of the "The Knowledge." Once a driver passes the test, they are issued with a green badge allowing them to work anywhere in the city.
β
β
Architectural fun facts about London
London architecture is an awe-inspiring sight for many, with a fascinating history and a blend of old and new styles, making it the perfect topic for a collection of fun facts.
β
Reflection from the 'Walkie-Talkie' skyscraper has melted cars π₯΅
During the hot summer of September 2013, reflections from the building melted parts of a Jaguar car that was parked near the Fenchurch Street skyscraper.
The Shard is the tallest building in the UKΒ π
Number 1 in the UK, number 7 in continental Europe but only the 96th tallest building in the world.
β
3 of London's iconic buildings and structures were opened in the year 2000 π
The London Eye, Millennium Bridge and Millennium Dome (02 Arena) all opened at the start of the third millennium.
London wall was built by the Romans π§±
Romans built several public buildings in the area, such as temples, amphitheaters, and bathhouses. They also constructed a large fort, London Bridge, and a defensive London Wall.
β
Tower Bridge isn't named after it's two iconic towers πΌπΌ
When Tower Bridge was built, the aim was for the Bridge to blend in with the nearby Tower of London, and not be an eyesore.
β
β
Sport fun facts about London
Football, cricket, tennis, rugby, you name it... London is a hub for sports enthusiasts from around the world.
β
London has hosted the Olympics more than any city π₯
1908, 1948, and 2012. London has hosted the Summer Olympic games more times than any other city. However, once Paris hosts in 2024 and Los Angeles hosts in 2028 all three cities will have hosted 3 times.
β
The world's first international football match was played in London β½οΈ
In 1872, England and Scotland played a 0-0 draw.
β
London hopes to have an American Football NFLΒ team π
The award-winning Tottenham complexβ which cost an astonishing Β£1 billion β is the first stadium outside North America thatβs purpose-built to host NFL games. Itβs the potential home of a future London-based NFL franchise, which has been discussed off and on for years.
β
The Bakerloo line was created for businessmen to get to the cricket π
Rumour has it that the Bakerloo line was created after a group of businessmen complained that they couldnβt get to and from Lordβs Cricket Ground quickly enough. The instant success of the line, however, proved that they werenβt the only ones in need of the service. When it opened on 10 March 1906, more than 36,000 passengers used it, despite the fact that the cricket season had yet to start.
β
The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in Wimbledon is the world's oldest tennis club πΎ
Having been founded in 1868, the club still hosts the famous Wimbledon Tennis Championships.
β
β
Musical fun facts about London
Iconic artists, iconic gigs, iconic venues and iconic songs all come from this iconic city.
β
The zebra crossing featured in The Beatles famous Abbey Road album cover has moved πΆ
More than 35 years ago the crossing was moved several metres down the street to help manage traffic. However, this doesn't stop thousands of Beatles fans flocking to the crossing every year to reenact the photo.
β
There are more than 22,000 music performances a year π€
London's has more than 300+ music venues including the O2 arena - the world's busiest music venue (in terms of attendance throughout the year).
β
Loads of iconic musicians were born in London π
David Bowie, Adele, Dua Lipa, Amy Winehouse, Stormzy, and many more...
β
The Spice Girls were formed in London in after a music manager put an advertisement in a newspaper πΆ
The idea for the group was conceived by a music manager named Bob Herbert, who wanted to create a girl group that would appeal to young people and represent "girl power". He placed an ad in a trade magazine, looking for young women who were "street smart, outgoing, ambitious and able to sing and dance".
β
Six major orchestras call London home πΌ
These include: Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, London Symphony Orchestra, the BBC Symphony Orchestra, Royal Philharmonic, London Philharmonic, and the Philharmonia.
β
β
Nature fun facts about London
London is not a concrete jungle, it's a green metropolis with many natural wonders to explore.
β
It costs a lot to drive a polluting car in central London π
To help combat air pollution, the ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) charges drivers Β£12.50 per day to drive inside the city. If your car is an EV or Hybrid, you don't have to pay the fees.
β
London isn't a concrete jungle π³
According to London Wildlife Trust, 48% of it is surfaced in vegetation, rivers and still waters. The city supports natural spaces and valuable habitats, as well as thousands of species, from algae and fungi, to molluscs and mammals - the incredible biodiversity of London.
β
London could be classified as a forest π²
Although not considered a forest, London has a high concentration of green areas and over 8.4 million trees across the city to meet the UN definition.
β
Over 10,000 foxes live in London π¦
Foxes are mostly nocturnal and can often be seen scavenging through bins, gardens and parks.
β
The world's fastest bird, nests on top of the Tate Modern building π¦
Peregrine falcons, have been known to nest on the now museum/former power station.
β
β
Culinary fun facts about London
London's culinary scene is as diverse as the city itself, offering a range of delicious and unique dishes influenced by different cultures and traditions from around the world.
The Churchill Arms in Chelsea started the UK trend of pubs serving Thai food π
Thai food is known for its bold flavours and spicy dishes, which is a good match for the bold flavours of some British beers and ales. This craze is rumoured to have started at the ChurchillΒ Arms.
β
Pubs have signs because people couldn't read in "ye olde" timesπ»
βSince most of the population were unable to read back in medieval times, pub signs were used to inform would-be customers that they could find a drink inside and help them identify the establishment.
β
The British favourite, Scotch egg, was invented in London π₯
A hardboiled egg wrapped in sausage meat and breadcrumbs and then deep-fried, was supposedly invented in 1738 by staff at Fortnum & Mason in Piccadilly as it kept well on the journey for wealthy Londoners travelling to their country homes. Scottish in name but not in origin.
β
Traditional white wedding cakes were invented in London π
Yes, the modern wedding cake as we know it today was indeed invented in London. In the mid-18th century, an apprentice baker named William Rich began creating multi-tiered, elaborately decorated cakes for weddings, and the trend quickly caught on. Rich first made these wedding cakes hoping to impress his boss's daughter...
β
The world's first fish and chip shop was opened in London π
During the 1860s, the earliest known shops were opened by Eastern European Jewish immigrant Joseph Malin.
β
β
Christmas fun facts about London
Step into the set of Love Actually, London is a magical place to be during the festive season.
β
Every year, Norway gifts London the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree π
The tradition started as a way for Norway to thank the UK for its alliance during World War II. The tree is specially picked each year and shipped to London.
β
Harrods sees an average of 300,000 people per day at Christmas time π
The store's elaborate Christmas displays and luxury gifts draw in tourists and locals alike, with an average of 300,000 people visiting the store each day during the festive season. In fact, Harrods is estimated to sell over 300,000 Christmas crackers and 100,000 Christmas puddings each year!
β
William the Conqueror was crowned King of England on Christmas Day 1066 at Westminster Abbey π
The coronation was a significant event, as it marked the beginning of Norman rule in England after the Norman Conquest.
β
People go swimming in the Serpentine lake every Christmas Day morning π₯Ά
The Serpentine Swimming Club take a dip in the Serpentine Lake in Hyde Park on Christmas morning when temperatures are close to zero.
β
Architects and Engineers build a gingerbread city exhibition at Christmas π¬
Over 100 leading Architects from Landscape Architects to Engineers and Designers use their construction skills to build a city made of gingerbread and sugar paste at the Museum of Architecture.
β
β
Celebrity fun facts about London
London has been a magnet for celebrities for decades, with a long list of famous actors, musicians, writers, and other personalities having lived, worked, and played in the city over the years.
β
Loads of celebrities live in London π€©
If you're lucky, you might see; Kate Moss, Benedict Cumberbatch, David and Victoria Beckham, Gigi Hadid, Russell Brand and Tom Hardy.
β
Sir Ian McKellen owns a pub in South London where he will occasionally help read the pub quiz π§ββοΈ
The Grapes in Limehouse is not only owned by Sir Ian, it used to be frequented by Charles Dickens.
β
Benedict Cumberbatch stopped a delivery rider from being mugged in Mayfair π¦ΈββοΈ
In 2018, the star of Dr Strange and Sherlock was in a taxi with his wife when he saw four alleged muggers set upon a delivery cyclist in Marylebone High Street. He jumped out of the car to help stop the incident which caused the four alleged muggers ran away.
β
Highgate cemetery is the final resting place of multiple celebrities πͺ¦
Karl Marx (German philosopher and author of The Communist Manifesto), George Michael (pop star) and Douglas Adams (British author best known for The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy) and many others.
β
The three most popular neighbourhoods for celebrity homes in London are; Knightsbridge, Notting Hill and Hampstead β¨
Living in these neighbourhoods will cost you a pretty penny.
β
β
Criminal fun facts about London
There is a dark side to London's criminal underbelly. From notorious serial killers to famous heists and daring robberies.
β
One Easter holidays, a group of old blokes broke into a vault and stole Β£14 million worth of cash, gold, diamonds and other gems π
In 2015, over the Easter weekend, a group of elderly men, who were later nicknamed "the diamond geezers" broke into the vault of the Hatton Garden Safe Deposit Company by drilling through 50cm-thick concrete walls. The heist became the subject of a number of films, documentaries and books, including the 2018 film "King of Thieves" starring Michael Caine and Ray Winstone.
β
Shaking your carpet on a street is unlawful π§Ή
Section 60 of the Metropolitan Police Act 1839 states that it is an offence to beat or shake the dust off your carpet/rug in the streets of London.
β
Notorious serial killer, Jack the Ripper, was never identified πͺ
Between August and November 1888, Jack the Ripper murdered at least five women in Londonβs East End. Police never managed to identify the killer.
β
The London Metropolitan Police was the first police force to use fingerprints as a way of identification in criminal investigations βοΈ
In 1901, techniques for fingerprint identification and classification were developed, and fingerprint evidence were first accepted in British courts.
β
The City of London has Sheriffs β¦οΈ
The name Sherrif derives from the Shire-Reeve who exercised the Kingβs authority over the citizens, collecting royal revenues and enforcing justice. Today their modern duties involve speaking at Ward Clubs and Livery dinners, sharing the responsibility with the Lord Mayor.
β
Arts and Theatre fun facts about London
From the world renowned West End theatre district to impressive art galleries, London has always been a home to the arts.
β
Les MisΓ©rables, first opened in London's West End and has since become the world's longest-running musical production π₯
The popular musical first opened at the Barbican Centre in London in 1985.
β
Great Ormond Street Hospital owns the copyright to Peter Pan π§ββοΈ
Author J.M. Barrie. Barrie donated the rights to the hospital in 1929, and since then the hospital has received royalties from various adaptations of the story, which are used to support the hospital and its patients.
β
Shakespeareβs Globe Theatre burned down in 1613 after a cannon misfired during a production of Henry VIII π₯
The original was built in 1599, the accident occurred in 1613 before being rebuilt and then closed down in 1642. The current building, a replica theatre with a thatched roof was rebuilt and reopened in 1997.
β
Some of the world's most famous paintings hang in London galleries πΌ
Famous artworks include; the Portrait of Shakespeare (artist unknown), the Sunflowers (Vincent van Gogh), the Water Lily Pond (Claude Monet), and Virgin of the Rocks (Leonardo da Vinci).
β
Banksy's street art has appeared across London πΌ
Although Banksy is believed to be from Bristol, some of his most famous early including; Yellow Flower, If Graffiti Changed Anything It Would Be Illegal and Shop Till You Drop have appeared inΒ London.
β
Business fun facts about London
Opportunity is everywhere in London, home to some of the world's largest and most influential businesses, making it a hub for commerce and finance.
β
The world's first ATM installed in London in 1967 by Barclays Bank π§
A ceremony unveiled the ATM (automated teller machine) at a branch of Barclays Bank in Enfield, North London.
β
The iconic red London buses weren't always red β€οΈ
London buses used to come in different colours depending on their route. In the early 1900s, the transport system was operated by multiple companies (instead of TFL today). In 1907, to stand out from the crowd, London General Omnibus Company (or L.G.O.C.) painted its entire fleet red to stand out from competitors.
β
Harrods department store used to sell drugs π³
In 1916 before it was classified as an illegal drug, Harrods were selling a kit described as "A Welcome Present for Friends at the Front" containing cocaine and morphine.
β
Iconic red telephone boxes are being repurposed βοΈ
Originally designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott in the 1920s, today red telephone boxes are rarely used to make phone calls. Today, many of these have been repurposed as mini libraries, coffee shops, and even solar-powered mobile phone charging stations.
β
There are 6 London Underground stations that are named after pubs π»
Angel, Elephant and Castle, Maida Vale, Manor House, Royal Oak and Swiss Cottage.
β
β
Royal fun facts about London
London is known for its rich history and connection to the British Royal Family, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in royal history and traditions.
The number one rule when meeting a British Monarch is, no touching β
You are only allowed to touch a ruling monarch if they offer to shake your hand first.
β
Windsor, the current royal family surname was adopted by King George V in 1917 to sound less German π©πͺ
The surname Saxe-Coburg-Gotha was changed to Windsor due to anti-German sentiment during World War I.
β
Queen Elizabeth absolutely loved corgis πΆ
During her life, Queen Elizabeth II owned more than 30 of the breed. There is even a statue in London of the Queen with 2 of her corgis on The Mall.
β
You can tell when the monarch is in Buckingham Palace π
The Royal Standard flag is flown only when the monarch is present. If the Union Jack is flying above Buckingham Palace instead of the Standard, The King is not in residence.
β
The Tower of London has served as a royal palace, prison, and execution site π€΄
Today it's a popular tourist, but The Tower of London has a dark history.
β
β
North London fun facts
The North of the city is home to picturesque nature, grassy hills and great transportation.
β
Iconic music venue, The Roundhouse in Camden, was originally built as a railway engine shed π
In 1847, the original structure helped steam engine trains change direction thanks to its large turntable. It was converted into a performing arts space in the 1960s.
β
Tottenham built their new stadium so that it has a 1,000 seat larger capacity than rivals Arsenal π
Tottenham Hotspur stadium = 62,062
Arsenal Emirates stadium = 60,260
β
Ally Pally (Alexandra Palace)Β has been many things including; concert hall, museum, library, ice rink, BBCΒ broadcasting centre and WWII prison π‘
In 1935, the BBC leased the Ally Pally for use as a television broadcasting station, and it was the first home of the BBC television service until the outbreak of World War II. During the war, the palace was used as an internment camp for German and Italian prisoners. Today, Ally Pally is a popular venue for concerts, exhibitions, and other events, and is also home to an ice rink and a boating lake.
β
The famous Platform 9 3/4 from the Harry Potter books and films is located at King's Cross station β‘οΈ
There is now a permanent installation and shop for fans to visit.
β
Camden Market used to be a horse stable π΄
The Camden Stables Market was originally a horse hospital in the 19th century before being converted into a market in the 1970s. Today it's one of London's most popular tourist attractions with over 100,000 visitors every weekend.
β
β
South London fun facts
Souff Landan has a rich history full of interesting stories.
β
A man converted a builders skip into a home to combat rental prices π
After spending Β£4,000 to convert the skip into a home, a South London man now pays only Β£50 a month in living expenses.
β
Crystal Palace was home to the world's first theme park π’
The palace and the grounds became the world's first theme park offering education, entertainment, a rollercoaster, cricket matches, and even 20 F.A. Cup Finals between 1895 -1914. The site attracted 2 million visitors a year and was also home to displays, festivals, music shows and over one hundred thousand soldiers during the First World War.
β
South London is home to the largest mosque in Western Europe, the Baitul Futuh Mosque βͺοΈ
Located in Morden, the mosque can hold 10,500 worshippers and is thought to be the biggest in not just London but all of western Europe.
β
A key feature in London's food scene, Borough Market attracts 19 million visitors per year π§
More than just great food, Borough Market was used as a location in several movies, including "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban" and "Bridget Jones's Diary."
β
Two of the UK's most popular restaurants started in Brixton Village π
Both Honest Burgers and Franco Manca Pizzeria started as small stores in the Brixton Village Market.
β
β
East London fun facts
What used to be the industrial and 'rough end' of town, East London is a diverse hipster paradise.
β
East London is the formerly industrial end of town due to two reasons π
- It's closer to the mouth of the river Thames meaning ships could easily get in and out
- The winds would blow the smoke from the industrial areas away from the city
β
London's most notorious gangsters used to call East London home π¬
The Kray twins, Ronnie and Ray, operated in London's East End during the 1950s and 1960s. The Kray twins were feared and respected in the criminal underworld, and they became infamous for their violent exploits and flashy lifestyle. If you want to know more, watch the movie, Legend, starring Tom Hardy.
β
Victoria Park is the world's first public park π
A key feature of East London, the world's first public park, Victoria Park, was opened in 1845.
β
The Olympics gave Stratford a major renovation, from industrial site to parkland π
The redevelopment of Stratford was aimed at revitalising the area and improving the quality of life for residents. The Olympic Park, which hosted many of the events during the games, was built on a brownfield site that had previously been used for industrial purposes.
β
There is a barrier built in East London to stop the city from flooding π
The Thames Barrier, which is located in East London, is one of the largest movable flood barriers in the world and is designed to protect the city from flooding.
β
β
West London fun facts
Leafy green streets, movie stars and iconic painted houses make West London one of London's fanciest areas.
β
West London is home to some of the wealthiest areas in the UK π°
Such as Kensington, Chelsea and Notting Hill. Finding a home in these areas will cost new London residents a lot of money.
β
There's a park in West London that has 600 wild deer π¦
Richmond Park is popular not just with West London residents, but an estimated 630 wild deer which can be easily seen once inside.
β
One of the world's most beautiful and historic football stadiums, Craven Cottage, is found in West London π
Originally a Royal hunting lodge, Craven Cottage is located on the bank of the River Thames and has been home to Fulham FC since 1896.
β
Twickenham is the largest dedicated rugby stadium in the world π
Home to English rugby, Twickenham can hold a crowd of 82,000.
β
Passengers could check in for their Heathrow flights at a Kensington terminal, 20km away from the airport π§³
The West London Air Terminal was a check-in facility for flights from Heathrow Airport. It was located in Kensington, and was in operation from 1957 to 1974. After passengers checked in their baggage and received their boarding passes, they would travel to Heathrow Airport by coach. One of the drawbacks of using the terminal for checking in was that road traffic could delay the coaches and ultimately delay the departure of the flight.
β
β
Central London fun facts
The scene where many of the world's most important events have taken place.
β
The Regent Street Cinema, Britain's first cinema, opened in 1848 πΏ
Today, the Regent Street Cinema screens both independent and studio films in the heart of Central London.
β
The first UK Pride Rally was held in central London in 1972 π³οΈβπ
It has since grown to become one of the largest LGBTQ+ events in the world. London's LGBTQ+ scene is centered around the neighbourhood of Soho ever since.
β
St Paul's Cathedral has a Whispering gallery βͺοΈ
If you whisper something against the wall, it can be heard on the opposite side of the gallery, 42 metres away thanks to the dome roof.
β
Soho's name comes from a 16th-century hunting call π£
The area's name is derived from an English 16th-century hunting cry βso-hoeβ when the area was open fields and grazing land.
β
The Great Fire of London burned for 3 days π₯
One of the most significant events in London's history, the Great Fire of London broke out in Pudding Lane in 1666 and raged for three days, destroying over 13,000 homes and 87 churches, including St. Paul's Cathedral.
β
