City of London: Cosmopolitan paradise

How to describe living in the City of London? Not the city as a whole - we're talking about the district here. To many, the very concept might seem alien. This is, after all, where more people travel to work than will ever live - around 300,000 suits commute in every day, mainly for the financial sector. Considering just 7,000 people live here, you might expect it to be a bit of a ghost town after everyone goes home, but this is far from the case. After dark and at weekends, the Square Mile remains a hive of excitement and a hub of activity. Read on to discover whether this fantastic location will suit you.

History

It would be rude to talk about the City without mentioning - at least in passing - its rather special history. The borders of this district represent the very building blocks upon which London was built before it expanded outwards to where the suburbs currently stand. However, despite its connection to the first Roman civilisation that lived here, World War II bombings and redevelopment in the 20th century mean the area retains little of its unique past.

If you are a history buff, however, drop by Monument in order to see how the capital remembers the Great Fire of London. Fanatics of Christopher Wren's architecture will also be pleased - the area is home not only to St Paul's Cathedral but a number of churches designed by the man himself. Fantastic if you fancy viewing a portfolio of his work.

Eating and drinking

When it comes to wining and dining, it's tempting to pass the City off as a waste of time, considering its proximity to other nightlife hotspots such as Covent Garden and Soho. However, the Square Mile's 7,000 residents know how to have a good time and there is actually a plethora of bars, restaurants and eateries here. During the week these are often made use of by those working in the financial sector, but you'll find a good mix of high-end eateries and cheaper places around Bank Station, so start there if you're planning on a pleasant night out.

Green spaces

You'll find nothing on the scale of Hyde Park or Kensington Gardens in the City. But if you've just moved in from the countryside and fancy a breath of fresh (well, relatively) air, you will find a number of public gardens to make use of. The largest of which is Finsbury Circus, but pop along to Jubilee Garden, St Paul's Churchyard or Cleary Garden if you fancy some variety.

Transport

What the city may lack in gardens, nightclubs and shopping, it makes up for in transport. Served by no less than 12 Tube lines - a particularly incredible feat considering it is the smallest district in London - City dwellers can be practically anywhere in London in under an hour. If you have a car though, we recommend selling it before moving here. The roads are extremely congested and the parking available is rare and expensive.

All things considered, City living is not half as bad as it's cracked up to be. Cheers to that.


 

Published 25th April, 2013

© 2013 Estates IT Limited