9 Fascinating Facts About London You Never Knew

Save to Find It Later!

9 Fascinating Facts About London You Never Knew

London is one of those cities that never stops surprising you. Just when you think you’ve seen all it has to offer, you stumble across a new fact that makes you see it in a whole new light. From its iconic structures to its rich history submerged beneath the city streets, London holds secrets that even longtime locals might not know. Let’s explore some fascinating facts about London that might just make you see this historic city differently.

1. Big Ben isn’t the clock—it’s the bell

When people talk about Big Ben, they’re often picturing the imposing clock tower at the north end of the Palace of Westminster. However, Big Ben actually refers to the bell inside the tower, not the clock or the tower itself. The bell weighs a massive 13.5 tonnes and was named after Sir Benjamin Hall, who oversaw its installation back in 1859. Every hour, this famous bell can be heard chiming across the city, marking the passage of time with a sound that’s become emblematic of London itself.

2. London has more than 170 museums

Imagine a city where history, art, science, and culture intersect in over 170 unique museums. London offers just that, making it a paradise for museum lovers. From the world-renowned British Museum to smaller, niche museums like the Fan Museum in Greenwich, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in dinosaurs, ancient artifacts, military history, or modern art, spending a day (or several) museum-hopping in London is a must for both visitors and locals.

3. The Tube has its own “ghost” stations

London’s Underground, affectionately known as the Tube, is not just a transit system but a place of hidden histories. Among its bustling network are several “ghost” stations that were closed to the public and left untouched for decades. These stations, like Aldwych and the British Museum station, capture the imagination with tales of wartime shelters and secret passages. Occasionally, they’re opened for tours, giving a glimpse into a part of London that most never see.

4. It’s illegal to die in the Houses of Parliament (technically)

This odd law technically makes it illegal to die in the Houses of Parliament. The reason? It’s said to be because the building is a Royal Palace, and anyone who dies there might be entitled to a state funeral. While this rule is more of a legal technicality than a strictly enforced law, it adds an interesting twist to the already fascinating history of the Parliament buildings.

5. Black cab drivers study The Knowledge for years

Becoming a licensed Black Cab driver in London isn’t easy. Aspiring drivers undergo rigorous tests called The Knowledge, studying detailed routes and landmarks for years. They must memorize virtually every street and significant site in the city, ensuring that no GPS is needed to find the quickest and most efficient route. This dedication to their craft is a testament to the iconic status of London’s Black Cab drivers.

6. Over 300 languages are spoken in the city

London’s diversity is reflected in the over 300 languages spoken in its streets, schools, and homes. This linguistic variety makes London one of the most multiculturally rich cities in the world. From Bengali to Tagalog, voices from across the globe converge here, creating a vibrant, dynamic community that continuously shapes the city’s cultural landscape.

7. Tower Bridge often gets mistaken for London Bridge

Many visitors mix up London’s famous bridges, often confusing the striking Tower Bridge with the more modest London Bridge. Tower Bridge, with its two majestic towers and stunning Victorian engineering, is a frequently photographed landmark. In contrast, the current London Bridge is relatively utilitarian. Nevertheless, both bridges have their own stories and significance in London’s history.

8. There’s a whole Roman amphitheatre under the Guildhall

Beneath the Guildhall Art Gallery lies a hidden gem from ancient history—a Roman amphitheatre. Discovered during renovations in 1988, this historical structure dates back to the 2nd century and was once a venue for gladiatorial combat. Today, visitors to the Guildhall can explore this incredible link to London’s distant past, walking the same ground that spectators did nearly two millennia ago.

9. Pelicans live in St. James’s Park—and have since the 1600s

St. James’s Park, near Buckingham Palace, is known for its beautiful landscapes and the resident pelicans. These birds were originally gifted to King Charles II by the Russian ambassador in 1664 and have been a peculiar yet beloved part of the park ever since. Watching the pelicans during their daily feeding is a unique and surprisingly delightful London experience.