When it comes to London, there are a lot of neighborhoods and areas that can be easily confused with one another. Two of the most commonly confused areas in London are Westminster and the City of London. While both are situated in central London, they have their own unique histories and characteristics that set them apart from each other.
What is Westminster?
Westminster is an area located in the heart of London, known for its iconic landmarks such as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Buckingham Palace. It has been the political center of England since the 11th century when it was chosen as the location for Westminster Abbey, a popular site for royal coronations and burials.
Today, Westminster remains an important political hub, housing many government offices including the Prime Minister’s residence at 10 Downing Street. The area is also home to many famous tourist spots such as Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery, and St. James’s Park.
What is the City of London?
The City of London is often referred to simply as “the City” or the “Square Mile.” It is a small but bustling area located eastwards from Westminster across the River Thames. The City has its own unique governance system separate from the rest of London with its own Lord Mayor and governing body known as the Corporation of London.
The City has long been associated with finance and commerce since medieval times when it was first established as a trading hub by Roman merchants. It remains an important financial district today and houses many global institutions such as The Bank of England and Lloyd’s of London.
The Differences Between Westminster and The City
Even though both Westminster and The City are located within central London, they have significant differences that set them apart from each other.
History
Westminster has been an important political center since medieval times when William II built his palace there in 1099. The area has since been the location of many royal coronations, weddings, and funerals.
The City of London, on the other hand, was established by the Romans in AD 43 as a trading hub. It has since become a major financial center and is home to many global financial institutions.
Governance
Westminster is governed by the City of Westminster Council while The City has its own unique governance system separate from the rest of London with its own Lord Mayor and governing body known as the Corporation of London.
Landmarks
Westminster is famous for its iconic landmarks such as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Buckingham Palace.
The City of London is known for its modern skyscrapers such as The Gherkin and The Shard. However, it also has some historic landmarks such as St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both Westminster and The City are located in central London and have their own unique characteristics that make them stand out from each other. Westminster is known for its political history and iconic tourist spots while The City is associated with finance and commerce with modern skyscrapers dominating its skyline. Regardless of which area you visit in central London, you are sure to experience some of England’s rich history and culture.