London covers 700 square miles, making it the largest town in Britain. However, when we refer to the City of London – which is the original core built by the Romans – we are talking about the metropolis of financial and business corporations which spans one square mile, hence the name, ‘The Square Mile’ or simply, ‘The City’.
Bordered by Westminster, Camden, Islington, Hackney, Tower Hamlets and Southwark; means that the areas inside The Square Mile include those within the EC2, EC3 and EC4 postcodes. Predominated parts include Bank, Austin Friars, Aldgate, Liverpool Street, Moorgate, Bishopsgate, Mansion House, St Pauls and Barbican.
Economy
The Square Miles is one of the world’s top trading capitals, with over 500 financial institutions, including world famous landmark establishments such as the Bank of England and the London Stock Exchange. The City’s vast historical presence as a leader in the financial and political markets has allowed it to develop a booming commerce in the foreign exchange markets, Eurobond investment, global insurance and energy futures. Because of the elite reputation surrounding The Square Mile, it has become one of the most sought-after areas to rent office space, along with Mayfair.
london - Image Credit: harshilshah (Flickr)
Transport
The whole of London is serviced by an excellent transport system including tubes, buses and trains. Travelling in and around the City of London is highly convenient thanks to links from the Docklands Light Railway, the Metropolitan, Circle, District, Central, Northern, Hammersmith and City Lines, which service all the areas within the Square Mile, allowing commuters and tourists to get in and out of the city with ease.
Local Attractions
Although the City is predominantly a business environment, there are thousands of sights and attractions to keep you entertained all day long. The Barbican Centre (Silk Street, EC2Y 8DS) is one of the world’s leading art centres, attracting locals and tourists all year round. Exhibitions include modern dance, film, music, theatre, visual arts and educational pieces. The Museum of London (150 London Wall, Smithfield, EC2Y 5HN) is a modern day institution which takes you on a journey through the history of the City, from the Great Fire of London in 1666, to present day. A family favourite would have to be The Tower of London (Tower Hill, EC3N 4AB), which has 1,000 years of royal history within its famous, yet gruesome walls.
Entertainment and Nightlife
One of the lesser known theatres in the Square Mile is the Bridewell Theatre (Bride Lane, Fleet Street, EC4Y 8EQ), which offers a ‘Lunchbox’ programme aimed at busy City workers on their lunch breaks. Evening performances are open to all and include both amateur and professional performances. In terms of nightlife, the City of London is one of the best places in the world. Britain’s highest bar, Vertigo 42, is located in the ‘eagle’s nest’, on the 42nd floor of Tower 42 (25 Old Broad Street, EC2N 1HQ). Those enjoying a drink within this exclusive bar are witness to some of the most breath taking views of the Capital.
Dining Out
With some of the best restaurants and fine-dining establishments located in the Square Mile, you really are spoilt for choice. If its Italian cuisine you’re after, why not try celebrity chef, Jamie Oliver’s creation, Jamie’s Italian (30 Threadneedle Street, EC2R 8AY) serves quality, rustic dishes at a fair price. If it’s a curry you crave, then head to Kasturi (57 Aldgate High Street, EC3N 1AL), an Indian restaurant with a twist. Diners who book in advance can gain entry into the kitchen to see their dish being cooked fresh, which creates a personable touch. Lastly, if you fancy something French, Chez Gerard (14 Trinity Square, EC3N 4AA) is a favourite among the City workers who want to impress a client on a business lunch.
Shopping
The world famous Smithfields Market (EC1A 9PQ) has been a landmark establishment in the City since 1866. Steeped in history, this Market place provides fresh meat, vegetables and flowers from as early as 4am when trade begins. If its quality produce you want, there is no finer in London. If its clothing you need, head to Petticoat Lane Market (Between Middlesex and Goulston Streets, E1 7HT), London’s famous Sunday market for men’s, women’s and children’s clothing. One of the specialities on offer is Leather garments, but with so many on offers, you will have to do some real bargain hunting – but its all part of the fun. If you prefer high-end stores, The Royal Exchange (Threadneedle Street, EC3V 3LR) has top designer outlets under one roof. This is also a great alternative to the busy streets of the West End.
Tammy Newell is a Copywriter and Online Blogger for Search Office Space, the UK’s first ever serviced office brokers. If you’re looking for serviced office space in The City of London or anywhere in the world, Search Office Space can help you find it with their free, impartial service.
