London Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + See, Where to Eat + Drink + Where to Stay in Square Mile
The City of London, referred to as the “Square Mile,” is steeped in history, dating back to Roman times. It's home to iconic landmarks such as the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Guildhall. Exploring these historic sites offers a glimpse into the city's rich past. As the financial heart of London, the City is where you can witness the bustling world of global finance. World famous skyscrapers, including the Gherkin and the Shard, dominate the skyline. The contrast between historic architecture and modern skyscrapers is fascinating. Many of these attractions are within walking distance of each other, making for an excellent area to explore on foot, with plenty of hidden alleys and historic streets to discover.
Square Mile, London, England, United Kingdom
The City hosts some of London's oldest markets, such as Leadenhall Market. These places offer a unique shopping experience, and the architecture and atmosphere are worth exploring. Situated along the banks of the River Thames, there are many opportunities for scenic walks, river cruises, and fantastic views of London's iconic bridges. Whether you're interested in history, finance, culture, or simply want to explore a unique and dynamic part of London—the City of London offers plenty to see and do, while being a convenient starting point with easy access to the West End, South Bank and Shoreditch. It's a fascinating blend of the old and the new, and a visit can provide a well-rounded perspective on this vibrant metropolis. These are the top reasons why Square Mile, London should be on your bucket list.
What to See in The City of London
The Guildhall Art Gallery is a prominent art gallery located in the heart of the City of London. It is situated within the Guildhall, a historic building that has been at the center of the City's civic and cultural life for over 800 years. The gallery itself is known for its impressive collection of art and artifacts related to the history and culture of London. Adjacent to the Guildhall itself, the art gallery provides an interesting contrast between the historic architecture of the building and the contemporary art on display. The collection includes a diverse range of artworks spanning several centuries. It features paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the 17th-century to the present day. Highlights include works by famous British artists like John Constable and Dante Gabriel Rossetti.
Source: City of London
One of the unique features of the Guildhall Art Gallery is the Roman Amphitheatre, an archaeological site located beneath the gallery. This well-preserved Roman amphitheater dates back to the 1st century A.D. and was discovered during excavations in the 1980s. Visitors can explore this ancient Roman structure, and it’s within walking distance of several other landmarks, including St. Paul's Cathedral and the Bank of England.
The Barbican Art Gallery is a contemporary art space located in the Barbican Estate, which is a renowned cultural and arts complex in the heart of London. The Barbican Estate is a notable example of Brutalist architecture and is known for its distinctive and unique design. The gallery primarily focuses on contemporary art, showcasing a wide range of exhibitions that feature contemporary artists, photographers, designers, and architects. These exhibitions often cover various artistic mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, video, and more. The ever-changing exhibitions make it a significant destination for those interested in modern and contemporary art.
Source: Barbican Art Gallery
St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic and historic landmarks in London. It's a magnificent Anglican cathedral known for its stunning architecture and rich history. Completed in 1710, its architectural style is predominantly Baroque, characterized by its grand dome and elegant interior. The cathedral's dome is one of its most distinctive features, soaring 365-feet into the air. It's one of the largest cathedral domes in the world and The Golden Gallery at the top of the dome provides breathtaking panoramic views of London. The cathedral has witnessed many significant events, including the funeral of Sir Winston Churchill, and the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer. The interior of St. Paul's Cathedral is grand and ornate. It features a stunning nave, intricate mosaics, beautiful stained glass windows, and a magnificent organ. The Tower of London is a historic and iconic fortress with a rich history dating back over 1,000 years. With not just one single tower, there is a complex of several buildings, including the White Tower and the central keep, which gave the entire complex its name.
Surrounding the White Tower are curtain walls and a moat. The Tower of London is famous for housing the Crown Jewels of the British monarchy. The Tower of London’s medieval architecture, historical artifacts, and the stories of those who lived and died within its walls make it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and tourists alike. The Guildhall in London is a historic and impressive building known for its significant architectural and historical features. The building’s history dates back to the 12th century, with its oldest part being the Great Hall. This hall, constructed between 1411 and 1440, is a remarkable example of medieval Gothic architecture. It features a high, timber-beamed ceiling and large windows with stunning tracery. The Guildhall's architecture showcases a blend of medieval and Victorian styles, making it a visually stunning and historically significant building in the heart of London. The complex is not only an architectural gem, but also a site that encapsulates the city's rich history and traditions.
Where to Eat The City of London
Inspired classic French cuisine with British influence and exotic libations concocted by inquisitive mixologists await you at Found Bar + Restaurant, the best restaurant near St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Found Bar + Restaurant at St. Paul's, London
Enjoy a truly unique dining experience at Found Bar + Restaurant with a carefully curated menu featuring a variety of classic French dishes to more contemporary plates made with only the freshest ingredients. Favorite dishes include Pan Fried Fillet of Sea Bream with saffron mash, broccoli, confit cherry tomato, and beurre noisette, Braised Lamb Shank with pearl onion, bottom mushroom and buttered mash potatoes, Chicken Supreme with chanterelle mushrooms, truffle mashed potato, tenderstem broccoli, and mushroom gravy, as well as Smoked Salmon with crème fraîche, shallots, crispy caperberries, and potato cake.
For dessert indulge on their decadent Cherry Bakewell Cheesecake or Vanilla & Orange Crème Brûlée with housemade shortbread. With an intimate and inviting atmosphere, Found is the perfect setting for any occasion.
Things to Do In The City of London
The Royal Exchange is a historic building in the heart of the City of London and it has played various roles throughout its long history. Originally established in 1565 by Sir Thomas Gresham, a wealthy merchant and financial agent to Queen Elizabeth I—the building was intended to be a hub for merchants and was officially granted a royal charter by Queen Elizabeth I in 1571. Today, the building is an upscale shopping destination. It houses a collection of high-end boutiques and designer shops, including Hermes, Jo Malone, and Tiffany & Co. The ground floor is a stylish retail space, while the upper floors include restaurants and cafes.
The Royal Exchange, London
The building itself is a striking example of neoclassical architecture. Its grand portico and impressive facade are a sight to behold, and the interior maintains its historic charm. The blend of historical significance and modern luxury makes it a unique and attractive destination for both tourists and locals in London. Leadenhall Market is a historic covered market located in the heart of the City of London, near the iconic Lloyd's building and a short distance from famous landmarks such as the Tower of London and London Bridge. This picturesque market is known for its stunning Victorian architecture and has been featured in various films, including the Harry Potter series.
Leadenhall Market, London
Leadenhall Market dates back to the 14th century and it is one of London's oldest markets. Today, it is home to a range of designer boutiques and stylish eateries. You can find a variety of goods, including clothing, accessories, jewelry, gourmet food items, wine, and flowers. The market is a great place to explore local, high-quality products. The combination of rich history and modern amenities make it a unique and inviting place to visit in the heart of London.
Sky Garden, London
The Sky Garden, situated in the “Walkie-Talkie” building, is a unique and popular botanical garden located in the City of London. It's known for its lush gardens and offers stunning panoramic views of the London skyline. Visitors can enjoy vistas that include famous landmarks such as the Shard, Tower Bridge, the River Thames, and St. Paul's Cathedral.The floor-to-ceiling glass windows ensure unobstructed views from the comfort of the three-story indoor garden which features a variety of lush plants and trees. This greenery provides a tranquil and refreshing atmosphere, and makes it the highest public garden in London. One of the unique features is that entry is free of charge.
Where to Drink in The City of London
Inspired classic French cuisine with British influence and exotic libations concocted by inquisitive mixologists await you at Found Bar + Restaurant, the best restaurant near St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Found Bar + Restaurant at St. Paul's, London
For your artisanal cocktail fix, we recommend trying two of their signature cocktails, the Moho Bishopi—concocted with Casamigos mezcal, fig syrup, pinot grigio, agave or the Flycatcher with gin, unicorn gin liqueur, Chambord, fresh pineapple, and sugar syrup.
With an intimate and inviting atmosphere, Found Bar + Restaurant at St. Paul's is the perfect setting for any occasion.
Where to Stay in The City of London
Offering a sanctuary in the heart of the historic City of London—Lost Property, Curio Collection by Hilton is a unique place to stay in London that has unrivaled proximity to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tate Modern, and the Millennium Bridge.
Designed to evoke the lost arts and activities of eccentric living with a plethora of curiosities around every corner. The hotel has been designed with an eclectic mix of elements.
From the stylish furniture and artwork to the luxury decor, each detail has been carefully selected to create an unforgettable experience.
Each guest room and suite at Lost Property, Curio Collection by Hilton offers guests a comfortable escapism influenced by London’s rich history and charm through artwork, unique design touch points and luxurious bed linen. They are designed to offer a distinctive, stylish feel and ensure your stay in London feels fresh and new.
You’ll be sure to find something to suit your taste at the hotel’s signature restaurant, Found Bar + Restaurant at St. Paul's. As one of the best restaurants near St. Paul’s Cathedral, the chef-driven escape offers delicious French inspired cuisine with a stunning backdrop. Book below to reserve your room at the lowest price, guaranteed.
Note: This information was accurate when this article was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
