Essential Hotels > England > London > City & Docklands

The City of London and the Docklands form the capital’s financial and business heartland and they are set to the east of the more residential Westminster. The City is the oldest part of London and a visit to the area gives you a glimpse into the worlds of both old and new; here you will see historic churches lying next to multiple-windowed office blocks for example. A little way to the east of the City meanwhile are the Docklands which have been transformed into their current state since the 1980s. Further, the London 2012 Olympics site at Stratford is a stone’s throw from this part of London.

Not only are there many recognisable financial institutions in the City, it is also home to what have developed as several attractions and renowned sights. Examples of such aspects include the Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Millennium Bridge, the Museum of London and Tower Bridge. The Barbican Centre is also found in this part of London and is a home of art and culture throughout the year.

Today the City is known as the Square Mile and has 33 times more workers than residents within its borders but it has taken many years to reach this state. It was established during Roman times in the year 50AD and some walls dating back to this time still remain. Its reputation grew off the back of its convenience for trade and businesses, what with the River Thames flowing through the area. A number of streets were named after businesses that took off in their particular locations, with the likes of Bread Lane and Ironmonger Lane leaving more than a hint as to their heritage. Later, out of the 17th century coffee houses famous financial institutions began to develop with the Bank of England coming to the fore in 1694 proving an example.

The Docklands developed much later and became a stop-off point for ships heading into the City where there was shelter from the elements and from thieves. Docks such as West India opened from the early-19th century although plenty of havoc was wrought during the Second World War. The Docks progressively shut down between 1960 and 1980 but a regeneration project launched soon after, taking 17 years to reach its climax. This resulted in the likes of Canary Wharf with its HSBC and Citi skyscrapers, the Docklands Light Railway, the City of London Airport expansion and a highway of growth and prosperity.