LondonLondon LondonLondon is the capital city of England and the United is the capital city of England and the United

Kingdom.Kingdom.

An important settlement for around two millennia, An important settlement for around two millennia, London is today one of the world's leading business, London is today one of the world's leading business, financial and cultural centresfinancial and cultural centres,,and its influence in and its influence in politics, education, entertainment, media, fashion and politics, education, entertainment, media, fashion and the arts all contribute to its status as one of the major the arts all contribute to its status as one of the major global citiesglobal cities

London is the most populous city within city limits in the London is the most populous city within city limits in the European Union with an official population of 7.6 European Union with an official population of 7.6 million (as of 2006)million (as of 2006) and has a metropolitan area and has a metropolitan area population of between 12 and 14 million people.population of between 12 and 14 million people. Its Its population is very cosmopolitan, drawing from a wide population is very cosmopolitan, drawing from a wide range of peoples, cultures and religions, speaking over range of peoples, cultures and religions, speaking over 300 different languages. London is an international 300 different languages. London is an international transport hub, with five international airports and a transport hub, with five international airports and a large port. It serves as the largest aviation hub in the large port. It serves as the largest aviation hub in the world, and its main airport, the multi terminal world, and its main airport, the multi terminal Heathrow, carries more international passengers than Heathrow, carries more international passengers than any other airport in the world.any other airport in the world.

London is a major tourist destination, with four world London is a major tourist destination, with four world heritage sites and numerous iconic landmarks such as heritage sites and numerous iconic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, the Tower of the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace and London, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace and the London Eye amongst its many attractions, along the London Eye amongst its many attractions, along with famous institutions such as the British Museum with famous institutions such as the British Museum and the National Gallery.and the National Gallery.

Greater London shown within EnglandCoordinates: 51°30′25″N, 00°07′39″W

CONTENSCONTENS

1 Definitions1 Definitions 2 Geography and climate 2 Geography and climate 2.1 Topography and climate2.1 Topography and climate 2.2 Districts2.2 Districts 2.3 Built environment2.3 Built environment 2.4 Parks and gardens2.4 Parks and gardens 3 History 3 History 3.1 Early London3.1 Early London 3.2 Norman and medieval London3.2 Norman and medieval London 3.3 Rise of modern London3.3 Rise of modern London 4 Government 4 Government 4.1 Local government4.1 Local government 4.2 National government4.2 National government 5 Economy5 Economy 6 Demographics 6 Demographics 6.1 Ethnicity6.1 Ethnicity 6.2 Foreign born6.2 Foreign born 6.3 Religion6.3 Religion 7 Transport 7 Transport 7.1 Rail7.1 Rail 7.2 Bus7.2 Bus 7.3 Air7.3 Air 7.4 Road7.4 Road 7.5 Cycling7.5 Cycling 8 Education8 Education 9 Society and culture 9 Society and culture 9.1 Leisure and entertainment9.1 Leisure and entertainment 9.2 Literature and film9.2 Literature and film 9.3 Music 9.3 Music 9.3.1 Classical music9.3.1 Classical music 9.3.2 Opera9.3.2 Opera 9.3.3 Ballet9.3.3 Ballet 9.3.4 Rock/Pop music9.3.4 Rock/Pop music 9.4 Sport9.4 Sport 10 Twinnings10 Twinnings The Palace of Westminster on the River Thames

DEFINITIONSDEFINITIONS

London can be defined in a number of different ways.London can be defined in a number of different ways.

The London region of England, also commonly known as Greater London, is the area The London region of England, also commonly known as Greater London, is the area administered by the Greater London Authority. The urban sprawl of the conurbation — or administered by the Greater London Authority. The urban sprawl of the conurbation — or Greater London Urban Area — covers a roughly similar area, with a slightly larger population. Greater London Urban Area — covers a roughly similar area, with a slightly larger population. Beyond this is the vast London commuter belt. At London's core is the small, ancient City of Beyond this is the vast London commuter belt. At London's core is the small, ancient City of London which is commonly known as "The City" or "Square Mile". Within London, both the City London which is commonly known as "The City" or "Square Mile". Within London, both the City of London and the City of Westminster have City status and both the City of London and the of London and the City of Westminster have City status and both the City of London and the remainder of Greater London are ceremonial counties.remainder of Greater London are ceremonial counties. The current area of Greater London was The current area of Greater London was historically part of the counties of Middlesex, Kent, Surrey, Essex and Hertfordshirehistorically part of the counties of Middlesex, Kent, Surrey, Essex and Hertfordshire..

Forty percent of Greater London is covered by the London postal area.Forty percent of Greater London is covered by the London postal area. The London telephone The London telephone area code covers a larger area, similar in size to Greater London, although some outer districts area code covers a larger area, similar in size to Greater London, although some outer districts are omitted and some places just outside are included. The area within the orbital M25 motorway are omitted and some places just outside are included. The area within the orbital M25 motorway is sometimes used to define the "London area" and the Greater London boundary has been is sometimes used to define the "London area" and the Greater London boundary has been aligned to it in places.aligned to it in places. Greater London is split for some purposes into Inner London and Outer Greater London is split for some purposes into Inner London and Outer London. It can also be informally split into North, South, East and West LondonLondon. It can also be informally split into North, South, East and West London

London's metropolitan area ('the metropolis') grew considerably during the Victorian era and London's metropolitan area ('the metropolis') grew considerably during the Victorian era and again during the Interwar period. Expansion halted in the 1940s because of World War II and again during the Interwar period. Expansion halted in the 1940s because of World War II and Green Belt legislation, and the area has been largely static since. The Metropolitan Police Green Belt legislation, and the area has been largely static since. The Metropolitan Police District, city-wide local government area and London transport area have varied over time, but District, city-wide local government area and London transport area have varied over time, but currently broadly coincide with the Greater London boundary.currently broadly coincide with the Greater London boundary.

Unlike most capital cities, London's status as the capital of the UK has never been granted or Unlike most capital cities, London's status as the capital of the UK has never been granted or confirmed officially — by statute or in written form.confirmed officially — by statute or in written form. Its position as the capital has formed through Its position as the capital has formed through constitutional convention, making its position as de facto capital a part of the UK's unwritten constitutional convention, making its position as de facto capital a part of the UK's unwritten constitution. The capital of England was moved to London from Winchester as the Palace of constitution. The capital of England was moved to London from Winchester as the Palace of Westminster developed in the 12th and 13th centuries to become the permanent location of the Westminster developed in the 12th and 13th centuries to become the permanent location of the royal court, and thus the political capital of the nation.royal court, and thus the political capital of the nation.

The Romans may have marked the centre of Londinium with the London Stone, still visible on The Romans may have marked the centre of Londinium with the London Stone, still visible on Cannon Street. The coordinates of the nominal centre of London (traditionally considered to be Cannon Street. The coordinates of the nominal centre of London (traditionally considered to be the original Eleanor Cross at Charing Cross, near the junction of Trafalgar Square and Whitehall) the original Eleanor Cross at Charing Cross, near the junction of Trafalgar Square and Whitehall) are approximately 51°30′29″N, 00°07′29″W. Trafalgar Square has also become a central point are approximately 51°30′29″N, 00°07′29″W. Trafalgar Square has also become a central point for celebrations and protests.for celebrations and protests.

Part of the London skyline looking east from the South Bank of the River Thames

Night view over the eastern side of Central London

Geography and climateGeography and climate

Topography and climateTopography and climate

Greater London covers an area of 609 square miles (1,579 km²), making it one of the Greater London covers an area of 609 square miles (1,579 km²), making it one of the world's largest cities by area] Its primary geographical feature is the Thames, a world's largest cities by area] Its primary geographical feature is the Thames, a navigable river which crosses the city from the southwest to the east. The Thames navigable river which crosses the city from the southwest to the east. The Thames Valley is a floodplain surrounded by gently rolling hills such as Parliament Hill, Valley is a floodplain surrounded by gently rolling hills such as Parliament Hill, Addington Hills, and Primrose Hill. These hills presented no significant obstacle to the Addington Hills, and Primrose Hill. These hills presented no significant obstacle to the growth of London from its origins as a port on the north side of the river, and growth of London from its origins as a port on the north side of the river, and therefore London is roughly circular.therefore London is roughly circular.

The River Thames before sunriseThe River Thames before sunrise

The Thames was once a much broader, shallower river with extensive marshlands; at The Thames was once a much broader, shallower river with extensive marshlands; at high tide, its shores reached five times their current width. It has been extensively high tide, its shores reached five times their current width. It has been extensively embanked, and many of its London tributaries now flow underground. The Thames is embanked, and many of its London tributaries now flow underground. The Thames is a tidal river, and London is vulnerable to flooding. The threat has increased over time a tidal river, and London is vulnerable to flooding. The threat has increased over time due to a slow but continuous rise in high water level by the slow 'tilting' of Britain (up due to a slow but continuous rise in high water level by the slow 'tilting' of Britain (up in the north and down in the south) caused by post-glacial rebound. In 1974, a in the north and down in the south) caused by post-glacial rebound. In 1974, a decade of work began on the construction of the Thames Barrier across the Thames decade of work began on the construction of the Thames Barrier across the Thames at Woolwich to deal with this threat. While the barrier is expected to function as at Woolwich to deal with this threat. While the barrier is expected to function as designed until roughly 2030, concepts for its future enlargement or redesign are designed until roughly 2030, concepts for its future enlargement or redesign are already being discussed.already being discussed.

London has a temperate climate with regular but generally light precipitation London has a temperate climate with regular but generally light precipitation throughout the year - unlike the rest of the UK and even the nearby coast. London is throughout the year - unlike the rest of the UK and even the nearby coast. London is in fact amongst the driest of Europe's capitals, with water resources per head of in fact amongst the driest of Europe's capitals, with water resources per head of population equivalent to Israel. The warmest month is July, with an average population equivalent to Israel. The warmest month is July, with an average temperature range at Greenwich of 13.6 °C to 22.8 °C (56.5 to 73.0 °F). Record high temperature range at Greenwich of 13.6 °C to 22.8 °C (56.5 to 73.0 °F). Record high temperatures of up to 38.1 °C were recorded in different parts of London on 10 temperatures of up to 38.1 °C were recorded in different parts of London on 10 August 2003.The coolest month is January, averaging 2.4 °C to 7.9 °C (35.6 to 46.2 August 2003.The coolest month is January, averaging 2.4 °C to 7.9 °C (35.6 to 46.2 °F). Average annual precipitation is 583.6 mm(22.98 in), with February on average °F). Average annual precipitation is 583.6 mm(22.98 in), with February on average the driest month.the driest month. Snow is relatively uncommon, particularly because heat from the Snow is relatively uncommon, particularly because heat from the urban area can make London up to 5 °C (9 °F) hotter than the surrounding areas in urban area can make London up to 5 °C (9 °F) hotter than the surrounding areas in winter. However light snowfall is seen on some days most winters.winter. However light snowfall is seen on some days most winters.

The River Thames before sunrise

DistrictsDistricts

London's vast urban area is often described using a set of district London's vast urban area is often described using a set of district names (e.g. Bloomsbury, Mayfair, Whitechapel). These are either names (e.g. Bloomsbury, Mayfair, Whitechapel). These are either informal designations, or reflect the names of superseded parishes informal designations, or reflect the names of superseded parishes and city wards. Such names have remained in use through tradition, and city wards. Such names have remained in use through tradition, each referring to a neighbourhood with its own distinctive character, each referring to a neighbourhood with its own distinctive character, but often with no modern official boundaries (the boundaries often but often with no modern official boundaries (the boundaries often overlap, allowing estate agents some leeway in defining the location overlap, allowing estate agents some leeway in defining the location of a property).of a property).

One area of London which does have a strict definition is the City of One area of London which does have a strict definition is the City of London (usually just called The City), the largest financial district and London (usually just called The City), the largest financial district and central business district (CBD) in Europe. The City has its own central business district (CBD) in Europe. The City has its own governance and boundaries, giving it a status as the only completely governance and boundaries, giving it a status as the only completely autonomous local authority in London. London's new financial and autonomous local authority in London. London's new financial and commercial hub is the Docklands area to the east of the City, commercial hub is the Docklands area to the east of the City, dominated by the Canary Wharf complex. Other businesses locate in dominated by the Canary Wharf complex. Other businesses locate in the City of Westminster, the home of the UK's national government the City of Westminster, the home of the UK's national government and the famous Westminster Abbeyand the famous Westminster Abbey..

The West End is London's main entertainment and shopping district, The West End is London's main entertainment and shopping district, with locations such as Oxford Street, Leicester Square, Covent with locations such as Oxford Street, Leicester Square, Covent Garden and Piccadilly Circus acting as tourist magnets. The West Garden and Piccadilly Circus acting as tourist magnets. The West London area is known for fashionable and expensive residential London area is known for fashionable and expensive residential areas such as Noting Hill, Knightsbridge and Chelsea — where areas such as Noting Hill, Knightsbridge and Chelsea — where properties can sell for tens of millions of pounds. The average price properties can sell for tens of millions of pounds. The average price for all properties in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea is for all properties in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea is £894,000 (as reported by the BBC in February 2007) with similar £894,000 (as reported by the BBC in February 2007) with similar average outlay in most of Central London.average outlay in most of Central London.

The eastern side of London contains the East End and East London. The eastern side of London contains the East End and East London. The East End is the area closest to the original Port of London, The East End is the area closest to the original Port of London, known for its high immigrant population, as well as for being one of known for its high immigrant population, as well as for being one of the poorest areas in London. The surrounding East London area saw the poorest areas in London. The surrounding East London area saw much of London's early industrial development; now, brown field much of London's early industrial development; now, brown field sites throughout the area are being redeveloped as part of the sites throughout the area are being redeveloped as part of the Thames Gateway including the London Riverside and Lower Lea Thames Gateway including the London Riverside and Lower Lea Valley, which is being developed into the Olympic Park for the 2012 Valley, which is being developed into the Olympic Park for the 2012 Olympics.Olympics.

Canary Wharf, London's second financial district

Built environment Built environment

The density of London varies, with high employment density in the central area, high residential densities in inner London and lower densities in the suburbs. In the dense areas, most of the concentration is achieved with medium-rise and high-rise buildings. London's skyscrapers such as the famous "Gherkin", Tower 42 and One Canada Square are usually found in the two financial districts, the City of London and Canary Wharf.

In recent years, the development of tall buildings has been encouraged in the London Plan, which will lead to the erection of new skyscrapers over the next few years as London goes through a high-rise boom, particularly in the City of London and Canary Wharf. The 72-storey, 310 m "Shard London Bridge" by London Bridge station, the 288 m Bishopsgate Tower and around 30 other skyscrapers over 150 m are either proposed or approved and could transform the city's skyline.

Other notable modern buildings include City Hall in Southwark with its distinctive oval shape, the British Library in Somers Town, the Great Court of the British Museum, and the Millennium Dome next to the Thames east of Canary Wharf. The disused (but soon to be rejuvenated) 1907 Battersea Power Station by the river in the southwest is a local landmark, whilst some railway termini are excellent examples of Victorian architecture, most notably St Pancras and Paddington (at least internally).

London is too large to be overwhelmingly characterised by any particular architectural style, having accumulated its buildings over a long period of time and drawing on an inexhaustible range of influences, although it is mainly brick built, most commonly a warm orange red, often with carvings and white plaster mouldings.[citation needed] Many areas of the city are characterised by white stucco or whitewashed buildings. Few structures predate the Great Fire of 1666, except for a few trace Roman remains, the Tower of London and a few scattered Tudor survivors in the City. A majority of buildings in London date from the Edwardian or Victorian periods.

A great many monuments pay homage to people and events in the city. The Monument in the City of London provides views of the surrounding area whilst commemorating the Great Fire of London which originated nearby. Marble Arch and Wellington Arch, at the north and south ends of Park Lane respectively, have royal connections, as do the Albert Memorial and Royal Albert Hall in Kensington. Nelson's Column is a nationally-recognised monument in Trafalgar Square, providing a focal point for the whole central area.

The Great Court of the British Museum

Horseguards Parade

Parks and gardensParks and gardens

Often called "The Green City," London has a number Often called "The Green City," London has a number of open spaces. The largest of these in the central of open spaces. The largest of these in the central area are the Royal Parks of Hyde Park and its area are the Royal Parks of Hyde Park and its neighbours Kensington Gardens and Holland Park neighbours Kensington Gardens and Holland Park Gardens at the western edge of central London, and Gardens at the western edge of central London, and Regent's Park on the northern edge. This park is Regent's Park on the northern edge. This park is located near the tourist attractions of Madame located near the tourist attractions of Madame Tussauds Wax Museum and Baker Street, where Tussauds Wax Museum and Baker Street, where the fictional Sherlock Holmes lived. Closer to central the fictional Sherlock Holmes lived. Closer to central London are the smaller Royal Parks of Green Park London are the smaller Royal Parks of Green Park and St. James's Park. Hyde Park in particular is and St. James's Park. Hyde Park in particular is popular for sports and sometimes hosts open-air popular for sports and sometimes hosts open-air concerts.concerts.

A number of large parks lie outside the city centre, A number of large parks lie outside the city centre, including the remaining Royal Parks of Greenwich including the remaining Royal Parks of Greenwich Park to the south east, and Bushy Park and Park to the south east, and Bushy Park and Richmond Park to the south west. Primrose Hill to Richmond Park to the south west. Primrose Hill to the north of Regent's Park is a popular spot to view the north of Regent's Park is a popular spot to view the city skyline. Some more informal, semi-natural the city skyline. Some more informal, semi-natural open spaces also exist, including the 791-acre open spaces also exist, including the 791-acre Hampstead Heath of north London. This Hampstead Heath of north London. This incorporates Kenwood House, the former stately incorporates Kenwood House, the former stately home and a popular location in the summer months home and a popular location in the summer months where classical music concerts are held by the lake, where classical music concerts are held by the lake, attracting thousands of people every weekend to attracting thousands of people every weekend to enjoy the music, scenery and fireworks. Outer South enjoy the music, scenery and fireworks. Outer South East London is noted for its open spaces and East London is noted for its open spaces and extensive wooded areas.extensive wooded areas.

Greenwich Park, one of London's Royal Parks

HISTORY

Early London

Although there is some evidence of scattered Brython settlement in the area, the first major settlement was founded by the Romans in AD 43, following the Roman invasion of Britain. This settlement was called Londinium, commonly believed to be the origin of the present-day name, although a Celtic origin is also possible.

The first London lasted for just seventeen years. Around AD 61, the Iceni tribe of Celts led by Queen Boudica stormed London, burning it to the ground. The next, heavily-planned incarnation of the city prospered and superseded Colchester as the capital of the Roman province of Britannia in AD 100. At its height in the 2nd century AD, Roman London had a population of around 60,000. However, by the 3rd century AD, the city started a slow decline due to trouble in the Roman Empire, and by the 5th century AD, it was largely abandoned.

By 600 AD, the Anglo-Saxons had created a new settlement (Lundenwic) about 1 km upstream from the old Roman city, around what is now Covent Garden. There was probably a harbour at the mouth of the River Fleet for fishing and trading, and this trading grew until disaster struck in 851 AD, when the city's defences were overcome by a massive Viking raid and it was razed to the ground. A Viking occupation twenty years later was short-lived, and Alfred the Great, the new King of England, established peace and moved the settlement within the defensive walls of the old Roman city (then called Lundenburgh). The original city became Ealdwic ("old city"), a name surviving to the present day as Aldwych.

Subsequently, under the control of various English kings, London once again prospered as an international trading centre and political arena. However, Viking raids began again in the late 10th century, and reached a head in 1013 when they besieged the city under Danish King Canute and forced English King Ethelred the Unready to flee. In a retaliatory attack, Ethelred's army achieved victory by pulling down London Bridge with the Danish garrison on top, and English control was re-established.

Canute took control of the English throne in 1017, controlling the city and country until 1042, when his death resulted in a reversion to Anglo-Saxon control under his pious step-son Edward the Confessor, who re-founded Westminster Abbey and the adjacent Palace of Westminster. By this time, London had become the largest and most prosperous city in England, although the official seat of government was still at Winchester.

Westminster Abbey is one of London's oldest and most important buildings

Primrose Hill

Norman and medieval LondonNorman and medieval London

Following a victory at the Battle of Hastings, William the Conqueror, the then Duke of Normandy, was crowned King of England in the newly-finished Westminster Abbey on Christmas Day 1066. William granted the citizens of London special privileges, whilst building a castle in the southeast corner of the city to keep them under control. This castle was expanded by later kings and is now known as the Tower of London, serving first as a royal residence and later as a prison.

In 1097, William II began the building of Westminster Hall, close by the abbey of the same name. The hall proved the basis of a new Palace of Westminster, the prime royal residence throughout the Middle Ages. Westminster became the seat of the royal court and government (persisting until the present day), whilst its distinct neighbour, the City of London, was a centre of trade and commerce and flourished under its own unique administration, the Corporation of London. Eventually, the adjacent cities grew together and formed the basis of modern central London, superseding Winchester as capital of England in the 12th century.

After the successful defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588, political stability in England allowed London to grow further. In 1603, James VI of Scotland came to the throne of England, essentially uniting the two countries. His enactment of harsh anti-Catholic laws made him unpopular, and an assassination attempt was made on 5 November 1605 — the famous Gunpowder Plot.

Plague caused extensive problems for London in the early 17th century, culminating in the Great Plague in 1665-1666. This was the last major outbreak in Europe, possibly thanks to the disastrous fire of 1666. The Great Fire of London broke out in the original City and quickly swept through London's wooden buildings, destroying large swathes of the city. Rebuilding took over ten years.

The Great Fire of London destroyed many parts of the city in 1666

Rise of modern LondonRise of modern LondonFollowing London's growth in the 18th century, it became the world's largest city from about 1831 to 1925. This growth was aided from 1836 by London's first railways, which put countryside towns within easy reach of the city. The rail network expanded very rapidly, and caused these places to grow whilst London itself expanded into surrounding fields, merging with neighbouring settlements such as Kensington. Rising traffic congestion on city centre roads led to the creation of the world's first metro system — the London Underground — in 1863, driving further expansion and urbanisation. Because of this rapid growth, London became one of the first cities in human history to reach a population of one million, and was the first ever to surpass five million.

London's local government system struggled to cope with the rapid growth, especially in providing the city with adequate infrastructure. Between 1855 and 1889, the Metropolitan Board of Works oversaw infrastructure expansion. It was then replaced by the County of London, overseen by the London County Council, London's first elected city-wide administration.

The rebuilding during the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s was characterised by a wide range of architectural styles and has resulted in a lack of architectural unity that has become part of London's character. In 1965 London's political boundaries were expanded to take into account the growth of the urban area outside the County of London's borders. The expanded area was called Greater London and was administered by the Greater London Council.

In the decades following World War II, large-scale immigration from Commonwealth countries and beyond transformed London into one of the most racially and culturally diverse cities in Europe. Integration of the new immigrants was not always smooth, with events such as the Brixton Riots in the early 1980s, but was certainly smoother than other English regions and largely lacking in widespread support for far right organisations, unlike its European or American contemporaries.

An economic revival from the 1980s onwards re-established London's position as a preeminent international centre. However, as the seat of government and the most important city in the UK, it has been subjected to bouts of terrorism. Provisional Irish Republican Army bombers sought to pressure the government into negotiations over Northern Ireland, frequently disrupting city activities with bomb threats — some of which were carried out — until their 1997 cease-fire. More recently, a series of coordinated bomb attacks were carried out by Islamic extremist suicide bombers on the public transport network on 7 July 2005 — just 24 hours after London was awarded the 2012 Summer Olympics.

The Blitz and other bombing by the German Luftwaffe during World War II killed over 30,000 Londoners and flattened large tracts of housing and other buildings across London.

A London street hit during the Blitz of World War II

The London Eye, one of the many symbols of modern London. It is London's most popular tourist attraction

GOVERMENTGOVERMENT

Local governmentLocal government

The administration of London takes place in two tiers — a city-The administration of London takes place in two tiers — a city-wide, strategic tier and a local tier. City-wide administration is wide, strategic tier and a local tier. City-wide administration is coordinated by the Greater London Authority (GLA), whilst local coordinated by the Greater London Authority (GLA), whilst local administration is carried out by 33 smaller authorities.administration is carried out by 33 smaller authorities.

The GLA is responsible for strategic planning, policing, the fire The GLA is responsible for strategic planning, policing, the fire service, most aspects of transport and economic development. service, most aspects of transport and economic development. It consists of two elected parts — the Mayor of London, who It consists of two elected parts — the Mayor of London, who has executive powers, and the London Assembly, who has executive powers, and the London Assembly, who scrutinise the Mayor's decisions and can accept or reject his scrutinise the Mayor's decisions and can accept or reject his budget proposals each year. The GLA is a recent organisation, budget proposals each year. The GLA is a recent organisation, having been set up in 2000 to replace the similar Greater having been set up in 2000 to replace the similar Greater London Council (GLC) which had been abolished in 1986. The London Council (GLC) which had been abolished in 1986. The headquarters of the GLA and the Mayor of London is at City headquarters of the GLA and the Mayor of London is at City Hall.Hall.

The Mayor of London is Ken Livingstone, who is in his second The Mayor of London is Ken Livingstone, who is in his second term of office. He was elected in 2000 as an independent term of office. He was elected in 2000 as an independent candidate and again in 2004 as a Labour candidate. Ken candidate and again in 2004 as a Labour candidate. Ken Livingstone was also the leader of the GLC when it was Livingstone was also the leader of the GLC when it was abolished in 1986.abolished in 1986.

The 33 local authorities are the 32 London boroughs and the The 33 local authorities are the 32 London boroughs and the City of London. They are responsible for local services not City of London. They are responsible for local services not overseen by the GLA, such as local planning, schools, social overseen by the GLA, such as local planning, schools, social services, local roads and refuse collection. The London services, local roads and refuse collection. The London boroughs each have a council which is elected every four years boroughs each have a council which is elected every four years by local residents. The City of London does not have a by local residents. The City of London does not have a conventional local authority, but is governed by the historic City conventional local authority, but is governed by the historic City of London Corporation which is elected by both residents and of London Corporation which is elected by both residents and businesses, and which has existed more or less unchanged businesses, and which has existed more or less unchanged since the Middle Ages. The head of the Corporation is the Lord since the Middle Ages. The head of the Corporation is the Lord Mayor of London, which is a different position from that of Mayor of London, which is a different position from that of Mayor of London.Mayor of London.

The City of London also has its own police force: The City of London Police, which is independent of the Metropolitan Police Service which covers the rest of Greater London.

Health services in London are managed by the national government through the National Health Service, which is controlled and administered in London by a single NHS Strategic Health Authority.

City Hall at night, headquarters of the Greater London Authority

National governmentNational government

London is the home of the Government of the United Kingdom London is the home of the Government of the United Kingdom which is located around the Houses of Parliament in which is located around the Houses of Parliament in Westminster. Many government departments are located close Westminster. Many government departments are located close to Parliament, particularly along Whitehall, including the Prime to Parliament, particularly along Whitehall, including the Prime Minister's residence at 10 Downing Street.Minister's residence at 10 Downing Street.

The British Parliament is often referred to as the "Mother of The British Parliament is often referred to as the "Mother of Parliaments" (although this sobriquet was first applied to Parliaments" (although this sobriquet was first applied to England itself by John Bright because it has been the model for England itself by John Bright because it has been the model for most other parliamentary systems, and its Acts have created most other parliamentary systems, and its Acts have created many other parliaments. Many nations with parliaments have to many other parliaments. Many nations with parliaments have to some degree emulated the British "three-tier" model. Most some degree emulated the British "three-tier" model. Most countries in Europe and the Commonwealth have similarly countries in Europe and the Commonwealth have similarly organised parliaments with a largely ceremonial head of state organised parliaments with a largely ceremonial head of state who formally opens and closes parliament, a large elected who formally opens and closes parliament, a large elected lower house and a smaller, upper house.lower house and a smaller, upper house.

London is represented in the national Parliament by 74 London is represented in the national Parliament by 74 Members of Parliament (MPs) who correspond to local Members of Parliament (MPs) who correspond to local parliamentary constituencies. For a list of London parliamentary constituencies. For a list of London constituencies, see List of Parliamentary constituencies in constituencies, see List of Parliamentary constituencies in Greater London. Of these 74 MPs, 44 are from the Labour Greater London. Of these 74 MPs, 44 are from the Labour Party, 21 are Conservatives, 8 are Liberal Democrats and one Party, 21 are Conservatives, 8 are Liberal Democrats and one is from the RESPECT party.is from the RESPECT party.

Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the Queen of the United Kingdom in London

Mayor Ken Livingstone (on the left) at a City Hall reception for Hanukkah

The Houses of Parliament at night

ECONOMYECONOMY

London is a major centre for international business and commerce London is a major centre for international business and commerce and is one of three "command centres" for the global economy and is one of three "command centres" for the global economy (along with New York City and Tokyo).(along with New York City and Tokyo).

As Europe's largest city economy, year-by-year, London's economy As Europe's largest city economy, year-by-year, London's economy generates approximately 20% of the UK's GDP[36] (or $446 billion generates approximately 20% of the UK's GDP[36] (or $446 billion in 2005); whilst the economy of the London metropolitan area (also in 2005); whilst the economy of the London metropolitan area (also the largest in Europe] generates approximately 30% of UK's GDP the largest in Europe] generates approximately 30% of UK's GDP (or an estimated $669 billion in 2005.)(or an estimated $669 billion in 2005.)

London shifted to a mostly service-based economy earlier than London shifted to a mostly service-based economy earlier than other European cities, particularly following the Second World War. other European cities, particularly following the Second World War. London's success as a service industry and business centre can be London's success as a service industry and business centre can be attributed to many factors:attributed to many factors:

English is the lingua franca;English is the lingua franca; its former position as the capital of the British Empire;its former position as the capital of the British Empire; its close relationship with the U.S. and various countries in Asia;its close relationship with the U.S. and various countries in Asia; its geographic location on the globe which enables its office hours its geographic location on the globe which enables its office hours

to overlap with normal office opening hours for other countries to overlap with normal office opening hours for other countries across the world that account for 99 percent of world GDP;across the world that account for 99 percent of world GDP;

English law being the most important and most used contract law in English law being the most important and most used contract law in international business;international business;

the multi-cultural infrastructure (schools, places of worship, cultural the multi-cultural infrastructure (schools, places of worship, cultural and social organisations);and social organisations);

relatively low taxes, particularly for foreigners (non-UK domiciled relatively low taxes, particularly for foreigners (non-UK domiciled residents do not get taxed on their foreign earnings);residents do not get taxed on their foreign earnings);

a business friendly environment;a business friendly environment; good transport infrastructure, particularly its aviation industry; andgood transport infrastructure, particularly its aviation industry; and a deregulated economy with little intervention by the government.a deregulated economy with little intervention by the government. Over 85 percent (3.2 million) of the employed population of greater Over 85 percent (3.2 million) of the employed population of greater

London works in service industries. Another half a million London works in service industries. Another half a million employees resident in Greater London work in manufacturing and employees resident in Greater London work in manufacturing and construction, almost equally divided between both.construction, almost equally divided between both.

Bishopsgate, in the City of London

accountancy, consultancy, local government

1,780,000Lambeth & Southwark

banking, media, legal2,120,000Canary Harf

creative industries, finance, design, art, fashion, architecture

2,294,000Camden & Islington

head offices, real estate, private banking, hedge funds, government

5,780,000Westminster

finance, brokering, insurance, legal7,740,000The City

Business ConcentrationOffice Space (m²)Business District

London has five major business districts: the City, Westminster, Canary Wharf, Camden & Islington and Lambeth & Southwark

London's largest industry remains finance, and its financial exports make it a large contributor to the UK's balance of payments. Over 300,000 people are employed in financial services in London. London has over 480 overseas banks, more than any other city in the world. More funds are invested in the City of London than in the next top ten European cities combined, and more international telephone calls are made to and from London than any other point on the planet. The City is the largest financial and business centre in Europe and, has recently begun to once more overtake New York City, partly due to strict accounting following the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and a tightening of market regulations in the United States. The Mayor of New York Michael Bloomberg has said that New York risks losing its title of world financial capital to London because of Britain's more easy going regulatory, legal and immigration systems.

London is home to banks, brokers, insurers and legal and accounting firms. Multimillion pound bonuses are commonplace and serve further to drive up house prices in the capital. A second, smaller financial district is developing at Canary Wharf to the east of the City which includes the global headquarters of HSBC, Reuters, Barclays and many of the largest law firms in the world. London handled 31% of global currency transactions in 2005 — an average daily turnover of US$753 billion — with more US dollars traded in London than New York, and more Euros traded than in every other city in Europe combined

More than half of the UK's top 100 listed companies (the FTSE 100) and over 100 of Europe's 500 largest companies are headquartered in central London. Over 70% of the FTSE 100 are located within London's metropolitan area, and 75% of Fortune 500 companies have offices in London.

Along with professional services, media companies are concentrated in London (see Media in London) and the media distribution industry is London's second most competitive sector. The BBC is a key employer, while other broadcasters also have headquarters around the city. Many national newspapers are edited in London, having traditionally been associated with Fleet Street in the City, they are now primarily based around Canary Wharf. Soho is the centre of London's post-production industry.

Tourism is one of London's prime industries and employed the equivalent of 350,000 full-time workers in London in 2003, whilst annual expenditure by tourists is around £15bn. London is a popular destination for tourists, attracting 27 million overnight-stay visitors every year, second only to Paris.

From being the largest port in the world, the Port of London is now only the third-largest in the United Kingdom, handling 50 million tonnes of cargo each year. Most of this actually passes through Tilbury, outside the boundary of Greater London.

DEMOGRAPHICSDEMOGRAPHICS

With increasing industrialisation, London's With increasing industrialisation, London's population grew rapidly throughout the 19th and population grew rapidly throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, and was the most populated early 20th centuries, and was the most populated city in the world until overtaken by New York in city in the world until overtaken by New York in 1925. Its population peaked at 8,615,245 in 1939.1925. Its population peaked at 8,615,245 in 1939.

There were an estimated 7,657,300 official residents There were an estimated 7,657,300 official residents in Greater London in 2006. However, London's in Greater London in 2006. However, London's continuous urban area extends beyond the borders continuous urban area extends beyond the borders of Greater London and was home to 8,278,251 of Greater London and was home to 8,278,251 people at the 2001 UK census, whilst its wider people at the 2001 UK census, whilst its wider metropolitan area has a population of between 12 metropolitan area has a population of between 12 and 15 million depending on the definition of that and 15 million depending on the definition of that area. According to Eurostat, London is the most area. According to Eurostat, London is the most populous city and metropolitan area of the European populous city and metropolitan area of the European Union.Union.

The region covers an area of 1,579 square The region covers an area of 1,579 square kilometres. The population density is 4,761 people kilometres. The population density is 4,761 people per square kilometre, more than ten times that of per square kilometre, more than ten times that of any other British region.any other British region.

By population of city (proper), London ranks 15th in By population of city (proper), London ranks 15th in the world.the world.

By population of metropolitan area, London ranks By population of metropolitan area, London ranks 15th in the world.15th in the world.

By number of billionaires (United States Dollars), By number of billionaires (United States Dollars), London ranks 4th in the world with 19.London ranks 4th in the world with 19.

In cost of living surveys, London ranks as one of the In cost of living surveys, London ranks as one of the most expensive cities in the world, alongside Tokyo most expensive cities in the world, alongside Tokyo and Moscowand Moscow

Piccadilly Circus at night

Country of BirthCountry of Birth PopulationPopulationUnited KingdomUnited Kingdom 5,230,1555,230,155IndiaIndia 172,162 172,162Republic of Ireland Republic of Ireland 157,285 157,285BangladeshBangladesh 84,565 84,565JamaicaJamaica 80,31980,319NigeriaNigeria 68,90768,907PakistanPakistan 66,65866,658KenyaKenya 66,31166,311Sri LankaSri Lanka 49,93249,932GhanaGhana 46,51346,513CyprusCyprus 45,88845,888South AfricaSouth Africa 45,50645,506United StatesUnited States 44,62244,622AustraliaAustralia 41,48841,488GermanyGermany 39,81839,818TurkeyTurkey 39,12839,128ItalyItaly 38,69438,694FranceFrance 38,13038,130SomaliaSomalia 33,83133,831UgandaUganda 32,08232,082New ZealandNew Zealand 27,49427,494

In the 2001 census, 71.15% of these seven and a half million people classed their ethnic group as white (classified as White British (59.79%), White Irish (3.07%) or "Other White" (8.29%, mostly Polish, Greek Cypriot, Italian and French)), 12.09% as Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi or "Other Asian" (mostly Sri Lankan, Arab and other South Asian ethnicities), 10.91% as Black (around 7% as Black African, 4.79% as Black Caribbean, 0.84% as "Other Black"), 3.15% as mixed race, 1.12% as Chinese and 1.58% as other (mostly Filipino, Japanese, and Vietnamese). 21.8% of inhabitants were born outside the European Union. The Irish, from both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, number approximately 200,000, as do the Scots and Welsh combined.

In January 2005, a survey of London's ethnic and religious diversity claimed that there were more than 300 languages spoken and more than 50 non-indigenous communities which have a population of more than 10,000 in London.

Ethnicity

Foreign bornForeign born

Figures from the Office for National Statistics show Figures from the Office for National Statistics show that, as of 2006, London's foreign-born population is that, as of 2006, London's foreign-born population is 2,288,000 (31%), up from 1,630,000 in 1997.2,288,000 (31%), up from 1,630,000 in 1997.

The table to the right shows the 'Country of Birth' of The table to the right shows the 'Country of Birth' of London residents in 2001, the date of the last UK London residents in 2001, the date of the last UK Census. (Top 21). Note that a portion of the Census. (Top 21). Note that a portion of the German-born population are likely to be British German-born population are likely to be British nationals born to parents serving in the British armed nationals born to parents serving in the British armed forces in Germany.forces in Germany.

It is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the It is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the industrialised world, with more than 300 languages industrialised world, with more than 300 languages spoken and 50 non-indigenous communities with a spoken and 50 non-indigenous communities with a population of more than 10,000 living in London. The population of more than 10,000 living in London. The 2001 census showed that 27.1% of Greater 2001 census showed that 27.1% of Greater London's population were born outside the UK, and London's population were born outside the UK, and a slightly higher proportion were classed as non-a slightly higher proportion were classed as non-white.white.

ONS London office, 1 Drummond Gate

The Greater London Authority is based in City Hall

ReligionReligion

The largest religious groupings in London are The largest religious groupings in London are Christian Christian (58.2%), No Religion (15.8%), (58.2%), No Religion (15.8%), MuslimMuslim (8.2%), (8.2%), HinduHindu (4.1%), (4.1%), JewishJewish (2.1%), and (2.1%), and SikhSikh (1.5%). London has traditionally been (1.5%). London has traditionally been dominated by Christianity, and has a large number of churches, dominated by Christianity, and has a large number of churches, particularly in the City. The famous St Paul's Cathedraparticularly in the City. The famous St Paul's Cathedrall in the in the City and Southwark Cathedral south of the river are Anglican City and Southwark Cathedral south of the river are Anglican administrative centres, whilst the head of the Church of England administrative centres, whilst the head of the Church of England and worldwide Anglican Communion, the Archbishop of and worldwide Anglican Communion, the Archbishop of Canterbury has his main residence at Lambeth Palace in the Canterbury has his main residence at Lambeth Palace in the London Borough of Lambeth. Important national and royal London Borough of Lambeth. Important national and royal ceremonies are shared between St Paul's and Westminster ceremonies are shared between St Paul's and Westminster Abbey. The Abbey is not to be confused with nearby Abbey. The Abbey is not to be confused with nearby Westminster Cathedral, a relatively recent edifice which is the Westminster Cathedral, a relatively recent edifice which is the largest Roman Catholic cathedral in England and Wales. Most largest Roman Catholic cathedral in England and Wales. Most London "Christians" are only nominally so. Religious practice is London "Christians" are only nominally so. Religious practice is lower than any other part of the UK or Western Europe and is lower than any other part of the UK or Western Europe and is around seven times lower than American averages. Despite the around seven times lower than American averages. Despite the prevalence of Anglican churches, observance is very low within prevalence of Anglican churches, observance is very low within the Anglican denomination, although in recent years church the Anglican denomination, although in recent years church attendance, particularly at evangelical Anglican churches in attendance, particularly at evangelical Anglican churches in London, has started to increase. Observance is considerably London, has started to increase. Observance is considerably higher among London's Roman Catholic and Christian Orthodox higher among London's Roman Catholic and Christian Orthodox communities.communities.

London is also home to sizeable Muslim, Hindu, Sikh, and London is also home to sizeable Muslim, Hindu, Sikh, and Jewish communities. Many Muslims live in Tower Hamlets and Jewish communities. Many Muslims live in Tower Hamlets and Newham; the most important Muslim edifice is London Central Newham; the most important Muslim edifice is London Central Mosque on the edge of Regent's Park. London's large Hindu Mosque on the edge of Regent's Park. London's large Hindu community is found in the north-western boroughs of Harrow community is found in the north-western boroughs of Harrow and Brent, the latter of which contains one of Europe's largest and Brent, the latter of which contains one of Europe's largest Hindu temples, Neasden Temple. Sikh communities are located Hindu temples, Neasden Temple. Sikh communities are located in East and West in East and West London, which is also home to the largest London, which is also home to the largest Sikh Temples in the world, outside India. The majority of British Sikh Temples in the world, outside India. The majority of British Jews live in London, with significant Jewish communities in Jews live in London, with significant Jewish communities in Stamford Hill (the most Orthodox Jewish area outside New York Stamford Hill (the most Orthodox Jewish area outside New York City and Israel) and St. John's Wood, Golders Green, Edgware City and Israel) and St. John's Wood, Golders Green, Edgware in North Londonin North London..

Christian

Muslim

Hindu

Jewish

SikhChristianityJudaism

Sikhism

Islam

Hinduism

Coloured world map indicating irreligion in the world. • 81%-100%• 61-80%• 41%-60%• 21%-40%• 0%-20%• not available

Bangkok Skytrain.

Early trolley car in Newton, Massachusetts.

Bus shelter with seats designed to deter sleeping.

Bush taxi

Transport is one of the four areas of policy administered by the Mayor of London. However the mayor's financial control is limited and he does not control the heavy rail network (although in November 2007 he will assume responsibility for the North London Railway). The public transport network, administered by Transport for London (TfL), is the most extensive in the world, but faces congestion and reliability issues, which a large investment programme is attempting to address, including £7 billion (€10 billion) of improvements planned for the Olympics. London was recently commended as the city with the best public transport.

TRANSPORT

The centrepiece of the public transport network is the London The centrepiece of the public transport network is the London Underground, commonly referred to as The Tube, with sixteen Underground, commonly referred to as The Tube, with sixteen interconnecting lines, and plans for expansion — especially deeper interconnecting lines, and plans for expansion — especially deeper into South London, and at least one new line. It is the oldest, into South London, and at least one new line. It is the oldest, largest, and most expensive metro system in the world, dating from largest, and most expensive metro system in the world, dating from 1863. The system was home to the world's first underground 1863. The system was home to the world's first underground electric line, the City & South London Railway, which began service electric line, the City & South London Railway, which began service in 1890 Over three million journeys a day are made on the in 1890 Over three million journeys a day are made on the Underground network, around nearly 1 billion journeys are made Underground network, around nearly 1 billion journeys are made each year. The Underground serves the central area and most each year. The Underground serves the central area and most suburbs to the north of the Thames, whilst those to the south are suburbs to the north of the Thames, whilst those to the south are served by an extensive suburban rail overland network. The served by an extensive suburban rail overland network. The Docklands Light Railway is a second metro system using smaller Docklands Light Railway is a second metro system using smaller and lighter trains, which opened in 1987, serves East London and and lighter trains, which opened in 1987, serves East London and Greenwich on both sides of the Thames. Commuter and intercity Greenwich on both sides of the Thames. Commuter and intercity railways generally do not cross the city, instead running into railways generally do not cross the city, instead running into fourteen terminal stations scattered around its historic centre. Since fourteen terminal stations scattered around its historic centre. Since the early 1990s, increasing pressures on the commuter rail and the early 1990s, increasing pressures on the commuter rail and Underground networks have led to increasing demands, particularly Underground networks have led to increasing demands, particularly from businesses and the City of London Corporation, for Crossrail - from businesses and the City of London Corporation, for Crossrail - a £10 billion east-west heavy rail connection under central London. a £10 billion east-west heavy rail connection under central London. Eurostar trains link London Waterloo station with Lille and Paris in Eurostar trains link London Waterloo station with Lille and Paris in France, and Brussels in Belgium, in two to three hours, making France, and Brussels in Belgium, in two to three hours, making London closer to continental Europe than the rest of Britain and London closer to continental Europe than the rest of Britain and tying it into the Euro-core.tying it into the Euro-core.

Rail

A picture of a City & South London Railway train from the Illustrated London News, 1890

London Waterloo

Coat of arms of the City of London Corporation as shown on Blackfriars station. The Latin motto reads Domine Dirige Nos, "Lord, guide us".

The London bus network is a twenty-four hour The London bus network is a twenty-four hour service and caters for most local journeys, service and caters for most local journeys, carrying even more passengers than the carrying even more passengers than the Underground. Every weekday, the London bus Underground. Every weekday, the London bus network carries six million passengers on over network carries six million passengers on over 700 different routes. In the year to March 2005, 700 different routes. In the year to March 2005, the network's rider ship was 1.79 billion the network's rider ship was 1.79 billion passenger trips. The buses are internationally passenger trips. The buses are internationally recognised, and are a trademark of London recognised, and are a trademark of London transport along with black cabs and the Tube.transport along with black cabs and the Tube.

Bus

A representation of the design of the standard London bus stop - yellow squares mean "buy tickets before

boarding" and blue squares denote a night bus; the "S" at the top of the pole

identifies a particular bus stand at a location with many stands

A typical National Express coach on a route serving London

A typical National Express coach on a route serving London

A new London icon? A new Enviro 400 operating for Metroline. Its curved front window makes it an ideal bus to view tall London iconic buildings such as Big Ben's tower and the London Eye on the 24 route

AirAir

London is a major international air transport hub. No fewer than eight airports use the words London Airport in their name, but most traffic passes through one of five major airports. London Heathrow Airport is the busiest airport in the world for international traffic and handles a mixture of full-service domestic, European and inter-continental scheduled passenger flights. Similar traffic, with the addition of some low-cost short-haul flights, is also handled at London Gatwick Airport. London Stansted Airport and London Luton Airport cater mostly for low-cost short-haul flights. London City Airport, the smallest and most central airport, is focused on business travelers, with a mixture of full service short-haul scheduled flights and considerable business jet traffic

Heathrow Airport is the world's busiest airport in terms of numbers of international passengers

London Heathrow Airport

London Gatwick AirportView across London Luton Airport, taken from the aircraft spotters viewpoint on the south side. A Thomsonfly Boeing 737-300 is lifting off, past the control tower.

London City Airport

RoadRoad

Although the majority of journeys involving central London are made by public transport, travel in outer London is car-dominated. The inner ring road (around the city centre), the North and South Circular roads (in the suburbs), and the outer orbital motorway (the M25, outside the built-up area) encircle the city and are intersected by a number of busy radial routes — but very few motorways penetrate into inner London. A plan for a comprehensive network of motorways throughout the city (the Ring ways Plan) was prepared in the 1960s but was mostly cancelled in the early 1970s. In 2003, a congestion charge was introduced to reduce traffic volumes in the city centre. With a few exceptions, motorists are required to pay £8 per day to drive within a defined zone encompassing much of congested central London. Motorists who are residents of the defined zone can buy a vastly reduced season pass which is renewed monthly and is cheaper than a corresponding bus fare.

A Sunday in April 2004 at 5 p.m. on Britain's busy M25Queues after an accident on Britain's M4

CyclingCycling

Cycling is an increasingly popular way to get around London. The London Cycling Campaign lobbies for better provision.

Ugandan bicycle taxi or bodaboda

Cargo-bicycle and Trike for rent Bremen.

LCC Logo

The London Cycling Campaign (LCC) is a campaign group pursuing better conditions for cyclists in London. Its vision is to make London "a world-class cycling city."

It was formed in 1978, merging several local groups, some supported by Friends of the Earth, across the capital. It was launched on 28 September 1978 at the Cheshire Cheese public house in Fleet Street, while its first offices were at 40 James Street, London W1. It produces a members' magazine, originally the Daily Cyclist and latterly the bi-monthly London Cyclist, to keep people in touch with its various campaigns, which include:Better cycle parking and carriage of cycles on public transport, including railways, London Underground and busesBetter designed and constructed provision for cyclists, eg: highway design, cycle paths, etcImproving access to cycling for people of all abilitiesImproving cycling access to London's parks and canal towpathsWorking on the enforcement of regulations that cover cycle facilities, such as cycle lanesWorking with haulage companies to increase driver awareness of cycling safetySwapping information on trams and cyclists

The LCC is the largest single issue organisation in London. In 2005 it gained its 10,000th member and, therefore is the largest urban cycling organisation in the world. LCC campaigns at a London level are backed up by local groups at the London borough level. These are made up of LCC members in the borough. These liaise with their local Borough Council, relevant Transport for London Streets Management section, Sustrans and other statutory and non-statutory authorities to comment on local plans and developments which will impact on cyclists, pedestrians and the local area. In addition local groups organise cycle rides and other social events. Many of these local borough groups have their own websites. Contact and website details are available on the main LCC website.

EDUCATIONEDUCATION

Home to a range of universities, colleges and schools, London Home to a range of universities, colleges and schools, London has a student population of about 378,000 and is a centre of has a student population of about 378,000 and is a centre of research and development. Most primary and secondary schools research and development. Most primary and secondary schools in London follow the same system as the rest of England.in London follow the same system as the rest of England.

With 125,000 students, the University of London is the largest With 125,000 students, the University of London is the largest contact teaching university in the United Kingdom and in Europe. contact teaching university in the United Kingdom and in Europe. It comprises 20 colleges as well as several smaller institutes, each It comprises 20 colleges as well as several smaller institutes, each with a high degree of autonomy. Constituent colleges have their with a high degree of autonomy. Constituent colleges have their own admissions procedures, and are effectively universities in own admissions procedures, and are effectively universities in their own right, although most degrees are awarded by the their own right, although most degrees are awarded by the University of London rather than the individual colleges. Its University of London rather than the individual colleges. Its constituents include multi-disciplinary colleges such as UCL, constituents include multi-disciplinary colleges such as UCL, King's and Royal Holloway and more specialised institutions such King's and Royal Holloway and more specialised institutions such as Imperial (set to withdraw from the University in 2007), the as Imperial (set to withdraw from the University in 2007), the London School of Economics, SOAS, the Royal Academy of London School of Economics, SOAS, the Royal Academy of Music and the Institute of Education.Music and the Institute of Education.

Imperial, the London School of Economics, King's and UCL have Imperial, the London School of Economics, King's and UCL have been ranked among some of the best universities in the world by been ranked among some of the best universities in the world by The Times Higher Education Supplement: in 2006 Imperial was The Times Higher Education Supplement: in 2006 Imperial was ranked 9th, the London School of Economics 17th (previously ranked 9th, the London School of Economics 17th (previously 9th), UCL 25th, and King's 46th in the world.9th), UCL 25th, and King's 46th in the world.

London's other universities, such as Brunel University, City London's other universities, such as Brunel University, City University, London Metropolitan University, Middlesex University, University, London Metropolitan University, Middlesex University, UEL, the University of Westminster and London South Bank UEL, the University of Westminster and London South Bank University, are not part of the University of London. Some were University, are not part of the University of London. Some were polytechnics until these were granted university status in 1992, polytechnics until these were granted university status in 1992, and others which were founded much earlier. London is also and others which were founded much earlier. London is also known globally for its business education, with the London known globally for its business education, with the London Business School (ranked #1 in Europe - Business Week) and Business School (ranked #1 in Europe - Business Week) and Cass Business School (Europe's largest finance school) both Cass Business School (Europe's largest finance school) both being top world-rated business schools.being top world-rated business schools.

London is home to many museums, galleries, and other London is home to many museums, galleries, and other institutions which are major tourist attractions as well as playing a institutions which are major tourist attractions as well as playing a research role. The Natural History Museum (biology and geology), research role. The Natural History Museum (biology and geology), Science Museum and Victoria and Albert Museum (fashion and Science Museum and Victoria and Albert Museum (fashion and design) are clustered in South Kensington's "museum quarter", design) are clustered in South Kensington's "museum quarter", whilst the British Museum houses historic artefacts from around whilst the British Museum houses historic artefacts from around the world. The British Library at St Pancras is the UK's national the world. The British Library at St Pancras is the UK's national library, housing 150 million items. The city also houses extensive library, housing 150 million items. The city also houses extensive art collections, primarily in the National Gallery, Tate Britain and art collections, primarily in the National Gallery, Tate Britain and Tate Modern. See the list of museums in London.Tate Modern. See the list of museums in London.

Senate House, in Bloomsbury, is the administrative centre of the University of London, a federation of London higher education institutions.

Within the City of Westminster, the entertainment district of the Within the City of Westminster, the entertainment district of the West End has its focus around Leicester Square, where London West End has its focus around Leicester Square, where London and world film premiers are held, and Piccadilly Circus, with its and world film premiers are held, and Piccadilly Circus, with its giant electronic advertisements. London's theatre district is giant electronic advertisements. London's theatre district is here, as are many cinemas, bars, clubs and restaurants, here, as are many cinemas, bars, clubs and restaurants, including the city's Chinatown district, and just to the east is including the city's Chinatown district, and just to the east is Covent Garden, an area housing speciality shops and London's Covent Garden, an area housing speciality shops and London's "Avenue of Stars" which honours achievers in the entertainment "Avenue of Stars" which honours achievers in the entertainment industry. Shoreditch and Hoxton in the East End form a second, industry. Shoreditch and Hoxton in the East End form a second, less mainstream, focus of bars, nightclubs, restaurants and less mainstream, focus of bars, nightclubs, restaurants and galleries. Islington's 2km long Upper Street, extending galleries. Islington's 2km long Upper Street, extending northwards from The Angel, has more bars and restaurants northwards from The Angel, has more bars and restaurants than any other street in the UK. It was also the first street in the than any other street in the UK. It was also the first street in the UK to have wireless enabled for its cafes.UK to have wireless enabled for its cafes.

Europe's busiest shopping area is Oxford Street, famous home Europe's busiest shopping area is Oxford Street, famous home to the vast Selfridges department store, a shopping street to the vast Selfridges department store, a shopping street nearly 2 km long which makes it the longest shopping street in nearly 2 km long which makes it the longest shopping street in the world. The adjoining Bond Street in Mayfair is an extremely the world. The adjoining Bond Street in Mayfair is an extremely up market location, complimented with the Knightsbridge area - up market location, complimented with the Knightsbridge area - home to the Harrods department store - to the southwest, home home to the Harrods department store - to the southwest, home to fashion, jewellery, and accessories design houses. The to fashion, jewellery, and accessories design houses. The districts of Knightsbridge (Sloane Street), Mayfair (Bond Street, districts of Knightsbridge (Sloane Street), Mayfair (Bond Street, Brook Street), and Chelsea (King's Road) represent London's Brook Street), and Chelsea (King's Road) represent London's prestigious role in the world of fashion, home to Vivienne prestigious role in the world of fashion, home to Vivienne Westwood, Galliano, Stella McCartney, Manolo Blahnik, and Westwood, Galliano, Stella McCartney, Manolo Blahnik, and Jimmy Choo amongst others, its renowned art and fashion Jimmy Choo amongst others, its renowned art and fashion schools cementing it an international centre of fashion schools cementing it an international centre of fashion alongside Paris, Milan and New York. Top global supermodels alongside Paris, Milan and New York. Top global supermodels such as Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss come from South such as Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss come from South London; and Chelsea raised actress Sienna Miller. London also London; and Chelsea raised actress Sienna Miller. London also has a high number of street markets, including Camden Market has a high number of street markets, including Camden Market for fashions and alternative products, Portobello Road for for fashions and alternative products, Portobello Road for antiques, and vintage and one off clothes, and Borough Market antiques, and vintage and one off clothes, and Borough Market for organic and specialist foods.for organic and specialist foods.

Bond Street, one of Mayfair's main shopping streets

London offers a huge variety of cuisine as a result of its ethnically diverse population. Gastronomic centres include the Bangladeshi restaurants of Brick Lane and the Chinese food of Chinatown. Soho offers a huge variety of restaurants including novelties such as Garlic and Shots - an entirely garlic restaurant, whilst more up market restaurants are scattered around central London, with concentrations in Mayfair, Knightsbridge and Noting Hill. Across the city, areas home to particular ethnic groups are often recognisable by restaurants, food shops and market stalls offering their local fare, and the large supermarket chains stock such items in areas with sizeable ethnic groups.

There are a variety of regular annual events. The Caribbean-descended community in Noting Hill in West London organises the colorful Noting Hill Carnival, Europe's biggest street carnival, every summer. The beginning of the year is celebrated with the relatively new New Year's Day Parade, whilst traditional parades include November's Lord Mayor's Show, a centuries-old event celebrating the annual appointment of a new Lord Mayor of the City of London with a procession along the streets of the City, and June's Trooping the Colour, a very formal military pageant to celebrate the Queen's Official Birthday.

Leisure and entertainment

SOCIETY AND CULTURE

Trooping the Colour held in 2006 to mark the Queen's 80th birthday. It is held every year as a military parade performed by regiments of the Commonwealth and the British Army.

Literature and filmLiterature and film

London has been the setting for many works of literature. Two London has been the setting for many works of literature. Two writers closely associated with the city are the diarist Samuel writers closely associated with the city are the diarist Samuel Pepys, famous for his eyewitness account of the Great Fire, Pepys, famous for his eyewitness account of the Great Fire, and Charles Dickens, whose representation of a foggy, snowy, and Charles Dickens, whose representation of a foggy, snowy, grimy London of street sweepers and pickpockets has been a grimy London of street sweepers and pickpockets has been a major influence on people's vision of early Victorian London. major influence on people's vision of early Victorian London. James Boswell's biographical Life of Johnson mostly takes James Boswell's biographical Life of Johnson mostly takes place in London, and is the source of Johnson's famous place in London, and is the source of Johnson's famous aphorism: "When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for aphorism: "When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford." The earlier (1722) A there is in London all that life can afford." The earlier (1722) A Journal of the Plague Year by Daniel Defoe is a fictionalisation Journal of the Plague Year by Daniel Defoe is a fictionalisation of the events of the 1665 Great Plague. William Shakespeare of the events of the 1665 Great Plague. William Shakespeare spent a large part of his life living and working in London; his spent a large part of his life living and working in London; his contemporary Ben Jonson was also based in London, and contemporary Ben Jonson was also based in London, and some of his work - most notably his play The Alchemist - was some of his work - most notably his play The Alchemist - was set in the city. Later important depictions of London from the set in the city. Later important depictions of London from the 19th and early 20th centuries are the afore-mentioned Dickens 19th and early 20th centuries are the afore-mentioned Dickens novels, and Arthur Conan Doyle's famous Sherlock Holmes novels, and Arthur Conan Doyle's famous Sherlock Holmes stories. Trollope's Palliser novels are largely set in London, stories. Trollope's Palliser novels are largely set in London, vividly depicting Westminster and its surrounds. The 1933 novel vividly depicting Westminster and its surrounds. The 1933 novel Down and Out in Paris and London by George Orwell describes Down and Out in Paris and London by George Orwell describes life in poverty in both cities. A modern writer pervasively life in poverty in both cities. A modern writer pervasively influenced by the city is Peter Ackroyd, in works such as influenced by the city is Peter Ackroyd, in works such as London: The Biography, The Lambs of London and London: The Biography, The Lambs of London and Hawksmoor. Along with Bloomsbury, the hilly area of Hawksmoor. Along with Bloomsbury, the hilly area of Hampstead has traditionally been the liberal, literary heartland Hampstead has traditionally been the liberal, literary heartland of London.of London.

London has played a significant role in the film industry, and London has played a significant role in the film industry, and has major studios at Pinewood, Shepperton, Elstree and has major studios at Pinewood, Shepperton, Elstree and Leavesden, as well as an important special effects and post-Leavesden, as well as an important special effects and post-production community. Many films have also used London as a production community. Many films have also used London as a location and have done much to shape international perceptions location and have done much to shape international perceptions of the city. See main article London in film.of the city. See main article London in film.

The city also hosts a number of performing arts schools, The city also hosts a number of performing arts schools, including the Central School of Speech and Drama, whose past including the Central School of Speech and Drama, whose past students include Judi Dench and Laurence Olivier, the London students include Judi Dench and Laurence Olivier, the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (educators of Jim Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (educators of Jim Broadbent and Donald Sutherland amongst others) and the Broadbent and Donald Sutherland amongst others) and the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (past students prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (past students including Joan Collins and Roger Moore).including Joan Collins and Roger Moore).

The London Film Festival is held in the city each October.The London Film Festival is held in the city each October.

Charles Dickens (1812-1870), whose works formed a pervasive image of Victorian London

The EMI Group (LSE: EMI) is a British music The EMI Group (LSE: EMI) is a British music company comprising of the major record company comprising of the major record company EMI Music which operates several company EMI Music which operates several labels, based in Brook Green in London, labels, based in Brook Green in London, England, and EMI Music Publishing, based England, and EMI Music Publishing, based on Charing Cross Road, London. EMI Music on Charing Cross Road, London. EMI Music is one of the Big Four record companies, is one of the Big Four record companies, making it among the largest in the world.making it among the largest in the world.

London is one of the major classical and popular music capitals of the world and is home to one of the five major global music corporations, EMI as well as countless bands, musicians and industry professionals.

Type Public (LSE: EMI)Founded 1931Headquarters London, EnglandKey people Eric Nicoli, CEO of EMI MusicMartin Stewart, CFOIndustry MusicRevenue £2.07 billion (2006)Net income £724.6 million (2006)Employees 6,300Website EMI Group Website

EMI Group PLC

EMI's building in London

Music

The Barbican Arts Centre is an The Barbican Arts Centre is an arts venue at the eastern edge of arts venue at the eastern edge of the Barbican Estate in the City of the Barbican Estate in the City of London, England. The London London, England. The London Symphony Orchestra is based in Symphony Orchestra is based in its concert hall.its concert hall.

Classical music

London is home to many orchestras and concert halls, including:•Barbican Arts Centre (London Symphony Orchestra)•Cadogan Hall (Royal Philharmonic Orchestra)•Royal Albert Hall (BBC Promenade Concerts)•Royal Festival Hall (Philharmonia Orchestra, London Philharmonic Orchestra, London Sinfonietta)•Wigmore Hall

•Cadogan Hall is a 900-seat concert hall in Chelsea, London, in the United Kingdom. Its resident orchestra is the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.Previously, the building was the First Church of Christ, Scientist completed in 1907. By 1996 the congregations had diminished dramatically and the building fell into disuse. Cadogan Estates Ltd (the property company owned Earl Cadogan, whose ancestors have been the main landowners in Chelsea since the 18th century) purchased the building in 2000 to safeguard its future and have since brought the former church back into useful life.

•The Royal Albert Hall of Arts and Sciences is an arts venue dedicated to Queen Victoria's husband and consort, Prince Albert. It is situated in the South Kensington area of London, England.

•The Royal Festival Hall is a concert, dance and talks venue within Southbank Centre in London, England. It is situated on the South Bank of the River Thames, not far from Hungerford Bridge. It is a Grade I listed building - the first post-war building to become so protected (in April 1988).

•Wigmore Hall is rightly regarded as one of the world's foremost chamber music and recital venues and is the principal London musical home of many celebrated international musicians and ensembles. The Hall's 2006/7 concert season attracted its highest ever audiences and over 100 concerts were broadcast to millions of listeners worldwide. The Hall's current director is 34 year-old Irishman, John Gilhooly, a classical singer. He joined the Hall as CEO in 2000 and became Artistic Director in addition in 2005. His predecessor as Artistic Director was Paul Kildea. William Lyne served as overall director from 1957-2003.

London has two main opera houses - the London has two main opera houses - the Royal Opera House and the Coliseum Royal Opera House and the Coliseum TheatreTheatre

Opera

The London Coliseum

The Royal Opera House

The Royal Ballet and English National Ballet are based in London and perform at the Royal Opera House, Sadler's Wells Theatre and the Royal Albert Hall.

Ballet

Poster for the Royal Ballet performance of Swan Lake at the Lyric Theatre in the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, Australia

Rock/Pop musicRock/Pop music

Wembley Arena

Wembley Arena is a world famous live entertainment venue, located in Wembley, London. The building is opposite Wembley Stadium. It was built for the 1934 Empire Games and originally housed a swimming pool, as reflected by its former name, the Empire Pool. The pool itself was last used for the 1948 Summer Olympics.

As a cultural centre for the United Kingdom, London has had a major role in many popular music movements. It has numerous famous venues for rock and pop concerts, including large areans such as Earls Court and Wembley Arena, as well as more intimate venues, such as Brixton Academy and Hammersmith Apollo. The area around the northern part of Charing Cross Road in Westminster is famous for its shops that sell modern musical instruments and audio equipment. London was home of one of the legs for both the Live Aid and Live 8 concerts.

London and its surrounding Home Counties have spawned iconic and popular artists. London is home to the first and original Hard Rock Cafe and the famous Abbey Road Studios. Musicians such as Bob Marley, Jimmy Hendrix and Freddie Mercury have lived in London. Famous musicians and groups associated with London include Fleetwood Mac, Iron Maiden, Elton John, Elvis Costello and The Rolling Stones. In addition, London was instrumental in the development of punk music, with figures such as The Clash, The Jam, Vivienne Westwood, Malcolm McLaren and the Sex Pistols,all based in London.

As Britain's largest urban area, London has played a key role in the development of most British-born strains of "urban" and electronic music, such as drum and bass, UK garage, grime and dubstep, and is home to many UK hiphop artists.

Carling Academy Brixton

Charing Cross Road, London, looking North from its junction with Long Acre.

SportSport

The new Wembley Stadium is the most expensive stadium ever built costing £793 million ($1.6 billion)

London has hosted the Summer Olympics twice, in 1908 and 1948. In July 2005 London was chosen to host the Games in 2012, which will make it the first city in the world to host the Summer Olympics three times.[76] London was also the host of the British Empire Games in 1934.

London's most popular sport (for both participants and spectators) is football.[77] London has 12 League football clubs, including five in the Premiership (Arsenal, Fulham, Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United and Chelsea), plus a further seven in the remaining three divisions (Barnet, Brentford, Charlton Athletic, Crystal Palace, Leyton Orient, Millwall and Queens Park Rangers), plus countless non-league and amateur football teams. Non-league Dagenham and Redbridge F.C. have been promoted to the Football League for the 2007-08 season, and will bring London's total of League teams to 13.

London has a special place in the history of Association Football. The playing of football in London has been well documented since it was first outlawed in 1314. In the sixteenth century the headmaster of St Paul's School Richard Mulcaster is credited with taking mob football and transforming it into organised and refereed team football. The modern game of football was first codified in 1863 in London and subsequently spread worldwide. Key to the establishment of the modern game was Londoner Ebenezer Cobb Morley who was a founding member of the English Football Association, the oldest football organisation in the world. Morley wrote to Bell's Life newspaper proposing a governing body for football which led directly to the first meeting at the Freemason's Tavern in central London of the FA. He wrote the first set of rules of true modern football at his house in Barnes. The modern passing game was invented in London in the early 1870s by the Royal Engineers A.F.C.

London also has four rugby union teams in the Guinness Premiership (London Irish, Saracens, Wasps and NEC Harlequins), although only the Harlequins play in London (all the other three now play outside Greater London), as well as a rugby league Super League club in Harlequins RL. London also has many famous other rugby union clubs in lower leagues, including Richmond F.C., Blackheath R.C., Rosslyn Park F.C. and Barnes R.F.C.

Since 1924, the original Wembley Stadium was the home of the English national football team, and served as the venue for the FA Cup final as well as rugby league's Challenge Cup final. The new Wembley Stadium will serve exactly the same purposes. Twickenham Stadium in west London is the national rugby union stadium, and has a capacity of 82,000 now that the new south stand has been completed.

Cricket in London centres on its two Test cricket grounds at Lord's (home of Middlesex CC) in St John's Wood, and The Oval (home of Surrey CC) in Kennington.

One of London's best-known annual sports competitions is the Wimbledon Tennis Championships, held at the All England Club in the south-western suburb of Wimbledon. Other key events are the annual mass-participation London Marathon which sees some 35,000 runners attempt a 42 km course around the city, and the Oxford vs. Cambridge Boat Race on the River Thames between Putney and Mortlake.

TTWINNINGSWINNINGS

Tower Bridge crosses the River Thames next to the Tower of London. See also: Sequence showing the bridge opening

London has twin and sister city agreements with the following cities:

Berlin, Germany (since 2000)

New York City, USA (since 2001)

Paris, France (since 2001)

Moscow, Russia

Rome, Italy

Beijing, China (since 2006)

In addition, London has a "partnership" agreement with Tokyo, Japan.