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London History

London's history is rich with exciting stories, people and places.

The history of London can be seen throughout the city in London's historic buildings, museums, older streets and attractions.

History in London: London's Great Museums

If you're interested in history, London's great museums offer you plenty to get your teeth into.

From the dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum, to the Egyptians at the British Museum, to more recent history at the Imperial War Museum and the Museum of Brands, London's museums have it all.

History of London: Museums and Attractions

For those with an interest in the history of London itself, try one of the following:

London: The Early History

London's history starts a long time ago! A city stood on this site back in Roman times, in 43 AD.

The Normans constructed a hall at Westminster; this Palace of Westminster served as the prime royal residence throughout the medieval period.

London flourished under the Tudors and Stuarts. London's Tudor and Stuart history can be traced in Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, Eltham Palace, and the Monument to the Great Fire of London.

History of London: The 18th Century

Buckingham Palace. Copyright Britain On View/ Pawel Libera

During the 18th century, London's place in history was secured as the capital of a massive empire.

Sir Christopher Wren's masterpiece, St. Paul's Cathedral was completed, Buckingham Palace was enlarged, and Westminster Bridge became London's second bridge to cross the Thames, after London Bridge.

History of London: The 19th Century

Royal Albert Hall. Photographer Marcus Ginns

During Victorian times, London became the world's largest city. Many famous historic buildings and London landmarks were constructed during the 19th century:

History of London: The 20th Century

During the 20th century, London survived two world wars, but lost its position in history as the capital of the largest empire the world has ever known.

The "Swinging 60s" brought the history of London its first taste of youth culture; New Wave and Punk in the 80s, and Britpop in the 1990s also reinforced London as a trendsetting capital.