The Square Mile Bankside EC2 is located in the heart of London’s financial district, which also happens to be one of the oldest areas of the Capital. As such there are many interesting streets and buildings to explore. The most famous has to be St Paul’s Cathedral, designed by Sir Christopher Wren and built between 1675 and 1710 following the great fire of London.

Another impressive historical building, the Guildhall, was built in 1411. It is the third largest civic building in the country and has been the setting for various great trials, including that of Lady Jane Grey in 1553. There is a public art gallery located within the Guildhall.

The Monument is the tallest isolated stone column in the world. It was designed by Sir Christopher Wren to commemorate the Great Fire of London in 1666. It is open to the public and can be climbed for great views of the City.

The Lord Major's Show The City of London has had its own mayor since 1189 - the most famous one being Dick Whittington who held the post three times in 1397, 1406 and 1419. Every November there is a grand parade, the Lord Mayor’s Show, where the newly elected mayor travels in a guilded horse-drawn coach to the Royal Courts of Justice to pledge allegiance to the Crown.

Arts and Entertainment The City is rich with galleries, museums and libraries, as well as a renowned arts complex, the Barbican Centre, which houses cinemas, theatres and galleries.

Planning your visit Head to the Information Centre by St. Paul’s cathedral for more information on things to do in the City. Call 020 7332 1456 for more information.