LONDON
LONDON
London Overview:
+ London, the largest city in Europe, plays a dominant role in Britain. It is home to key
government departments, Parliament, major legal institutions, and the monarchy. As the
country’s business hub, it also serves as a financial center and a major transport network hub.
+Approximately one-fifth of the UK’s population resides in the Greater London area.
City of London History:
+The original city of London, also known as "the square mile," was small. It did not include
Parliament or the royal court, to avoid interfering with merchants and traders.
+Another "city" developed outside the city walls in Westminster, now a key area for national
institutions. Today, both cities are part of central London.
Key Areas in London:
+The Square Mile: It is the country’s main financial district and represents the stereotype of
an English "city gent." Nearly a million people work here, but only about 8,000 live in this
area.
+West End and East End: The West End is known for theaters, cinemas, and luxury shops,
while the East End is traditionally a poorer residential area.
Cosmopolitan Nature:
London is very diverse and cosmopolitan, with over 137 languages spoken, reflecting its
multicultural population.
Population Trends and Suburban Growth:
Over time, the central population has decreased, while suburban areas have expanded. Most
Londoners now live in the suburbs and commute to work in the city center.
Current Perception of London:
+There are claims that London is in decline, losing its status as a leading financial center and
becoming dirty and neglected. Despite this, its popularity as a tourist destination and business
hub remains strong.
+Business Traveller magazine readers rank London as their favorite city for business, due to
its cultural variety and rich history.
What is London?
London is the capital city of the United Kingdom. It is the U.K.'s largest metropolis and its
economic, transportation, and cultural centre.