London, the capital of England and one of the most popular cities in the world, is an exciting and vibrant destination for travelers. Along with its rich history and iconic landmarks, London is also full of fun facts that make it a unique city. In this article, we will explore some fascinating facts about London that you may not have known before.
The Big Ben Is Not The Name Of The Clock Tower
The first thing that comes to mind when you think of London is probably the iconic clock tower known as Big Ben. But did you know that Big Ben is not actually the name of the tower?
The tower was officially named Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee. However, many people still refer to it as Big Ben.
London Bridge Is Not Falling Down
Contrary to the popular nursery rhyme, London Bridge is actually not falling down! The current London Bridge was built in 1973 and has been standing strong ever since. However, if you’re looking for a bridge with a fascinating history, head over to Tower Bridge instead.
The Oldest Underground System In The World
The London Underground, also known as the Tube, is not only one of the most extensive underground transportation systems in the world but also happens to be the oldest. The first line opened in 1863 and had steam-powered trains running on it. Today, it consists of 11 lines with over 270 stations.
A City Full Of Museums And Galleries
For those interested in art and history, London is a treasure trove of museums and galleries. From world-renowned institutions like the British Museum and National Gallery to lesser-known gems like Sir John Soane’s Museum and Leighton House Museum, there’s something for everyone.
Some Unusual Museums Worth Checking Out:
- The Sherlock Holmes Museum
- The Old Operating Theatre Museum
- The Cartoon Museum
- The Hunterian Museum
London Has A Roman Wall
Did you know that London has a Roman wall that is still standing today? The wall was originally built by the Romans in AD 200 to protect the city from invaders. Today, parts of the wall can still be seen in the City of London, including near the Tower of London.
A City Of Parks And Gardens
Despite being a bustling metropolis, London is also known for its abundance of parks and gardens. From Hyde Park and Regent’s Park to Kew Gardens and Richmond Park, there are plenty of green spaces to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.
Some Fun Facts About London’s Parks:
- Hyde Park is home to over 4,000 trees, including some that are over 900 years old.
- Kew Gardens has the largest collection of living plants in the world with over 50,000 species.
- Richmond Park is home to around 630 red and fallow deer.
In conclusion, London is a city full of surprises and interesting facts. From its iconic landmarks like Big Ben and Tower Bridge to its rich history and abundance of museums and parks, there’s always something new to discover in this vibrant city.