If you’ve ever traveled to London or are planning to, you may have come across the question of how many boroughs does London have? The answer may seem simple, but it’s a bit more complicated than you might think.
What Are Boroughs?
First, let’s start with defining what a borough is. A borough is a self-governing unit within a larger city or metropolitan area. In the case of London, each borough has its own local council, which is responsible for providing services such as housing, education, and waste management.
London’s Boroughs
Now, let’s get back to the main question – how many boroughs does London have? The answer is 32. However, things can get confusing due to the fact that there are also two additional areas within London that are often referred to as boroughs but aren’t technically considered as such.
The City of London and the City of Westminster are both considered cities rather than boroughs. Despite this distinction, they are still often referred to as boroughs due to their historical significance and their close association with Greater London.
The City of London
The City of London is located at the heart of Greater London and covers just over one square mile. It’s famously known for being home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks such as St Paul’s Cathedral and The Tower of London.
Despite its small size, it holds great significance due to its role as the financial center of not just the UK but also Europe. It has its own Lord Mayor who acts as an ambassador for the city and represents it on both national and international platforms.
The City of Westminster
Westminster is located in central London and is home to many famous tourist attractions such as Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Trafalgar Square. It was named after Westminster Abbey which has been the traditional location for coronations and burials of British monarchs.
Like the City of London, Westminster has its own Lord Mayor, although it’s more of an honorary title rather than a formal role. It’s also home to the UK’s Houses of Parliament and is where most government offices are located.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while London has 32 boroughs, it also has two additional areas known as The City of London and The City of Westminster. Although they are not technically considered boroughs, they are still an integral part of Greater London with their own unique identities and histories.
If you’re planning a trip to London anytime soon, make sure to explore all that these areas have to offer – from the bustling financial district in The City of London to the iconic landmarks in Westminster.