Is the City of London Separate From London?

By Michael Ferguson

The City of London, also known as The Square Mile, is a financial hub and the historical core of London. Many people often wonder if it is a separate entity from the rest of London. Well, the answer is both yes and no.

What is the City of London?

The City of London is a small area located in central London that covers just over one square mile. It is home to many financial institutions, including the Bank of England and the London Stock Exchange. The City has its own government, known as the City of London Corporation, which has been in existence for over 800 years.

Is the City of London separate from London?

In terms of governance and administration, yes, the City of London is separate from the rest of London. It has its own Lord Mayor and local council, which are responsible for running its affairs. The Lord Mayor’s role is mostly ceremonial but carries some important responsibilities such as representing the City on official occasions both domestically and internationally.

However, when it comes to everyday life in the city, there isn’t really any notable difference between being in Central London or being in The Square Mile. It remains part of Greater London with all that entails.

The Unique History

One reason why people may think that The Square Mile is separate from London could be due to its unique history. It was originally an independent city-state with its own laws and regulations before being absorbed into Greater London in 1965.

The Financial Hub

Another reason why people may think that it’s separate could be because it’s primarily known as a financial hub rather than a residential area like most other parts of Inner/Outer London.

Conclusion

So there you have it – while The Square Mile has its own government and identity within Greater London, it isn’t truly separate from the rest of London. However, its unique history and role as a financial hub make it an important part of the city’s identity and economy.