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July 26, 2026Sources cited
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Culture & Lifestyle • Cities

London

London is the capital and largest city of England and the United Kingdom.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

London is the capital and largest city of England and the United Kingdom. It is a major global city on the River Thames known for its long history, government institutions, finance, culture, and major tourist landmarks.

History

London originated as Londinium, a Roman settlement founded in AD 43. It developed over nearly two millennia into one of the world's oldest and most important cities.

Geography and administration

London lies on the River Thames in southeast England. The name can refer to Greater London as a whole, while the City of London is the historic financial district at its core.

Economy and culture

London is a leading global centre for finance, government, media, arts, and tourism. It is also known for its museums, theatres, universities, and diverse population.

Landmarks and heritage

The city contains major attractions and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Tower of London, the Palace of Westminster, Maritime Greenwich, and Kew Gardens.

Key facts

  • London began as the Roman settlement of Londinium in AD 43.
  • It is the capital of the United Kingdom and England by convention.
  • Greater London has a population of about 9 million people.
  • The city is a major centre for finance, government, transport, and culture.
  • London includes landmark sites such as the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace.
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Canadian context

London is a major reference point for Canadian travellers, students, businesses, and cultural institutions, and it is one of the most visited international destinations for Canadians.

Frequently asked questions

What is London?
London is the capital and largest city of England and the United Kingdom, and one of the world's major global cities.
Where is London located?
London is in southeast England on the River Thames, upstream from the river's estuary into the North Sea.
How old is London?
London has been a major settlement for nearly 2,000 years and began as the Roman city of Londinium in AD 43.
What is the City of London?
The City of London is the historic central business district and local government area within Greater London, often called the Square Mile.
What is London known for?
London is known for government institutions, finance, cultural institutions, historic landmarks, and tourism.

References

  1. Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/place/London
    Supports: London as the capital and largest metropolis of the United Kingdom; location on the River Thames; historical importance; economic and cultural role.
  2. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/London
    Supports: General facts on London's population, location, and status as capital of the United Kingdom and England by convention.
  3. Visit London — https://www.visitlondon.com/blog/facts-about-london
    Supports: Roman origin of London as Londinium and notable landmarks.
  4. BBC News — https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-london-31056626
    Supports: Greater London population figure and metropolitan significance.