10 Interesting Facts about London

London is a city full of history, culture, and surprises around every corner. Even if you've visited or lived there, there are always new and interesting things to discover. Here are ten quirky and lesser-known facts about this vibrant metropolis that might just surprise you!

1. Big Ben Isn’t the Clock Tower

We all know and love Big Ben, but did you know that Big Ben isn’t actually the name of the clock tower? The tower itself is called the Elizabeth Tower, renamed in 2012 to honor Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee. Big Ben is actually the nickname for the Great Bell inside the tower.

2. The Smallest Police Station in the World

Tucked away in Trafalgar Square, there’s a tiny structure that used to serve as the world’s smallest police station. Built in the 1920s, it could accommodate just one officer, who could keep an eye on the square through its two windows. Nowadays, it’s used as a broom cupboard by Westminster Council.

3. There’s a Secret Tube Line

Beneath London’s bustling streets lies a secret tube network that many people have never heard of—the Mail Rail. It was a postal railway that operated from 1927 to 2003, delivering letters and parcels across the city. Today, you can take a tour of this fascinating piece of history at the Postal Museum.

4. The Tower Ravens’ Prophecy

According to legend, if the six resident ravens ever leave the Tower of London, the kingdom will fall. To prevent this, the ravens are well cared for, with clipped wings to ensure they stay put. The Tower of London even employs a dedicated Ravenmaster to look after these ominous birds.

5. The Great Fire Wasn't So Great

The Great Fire of London in 1666 is one of the city’s most famous events, but did you know that it destroyed only six people’s lives? While the fire caused massive damage, burning down 87 churches and more than 13,000 houses, the death toll was surprisingly low for such a catastrophic event.

6. The Seven Noses of Soho

Scattered around Soho are seven sculpted noses created by artist Rick Buckley in the 1990s. They were a form of protest against the rise of CCTV cameras in the city. There’s a rumor that finding all seven brings good luck.

7. An Elephant in the Room

In the 13th century, London’s Tower housed some unexpected residents—animals, including a polar bear and an elephant, gifted to King Henry III. The Tower Menagerie was the first zoo in London, with exotic animals kept as symbols of the king’s power and wealth. The elephant, a gift from the King of France, even had its own specially built house.

8. The City with Two Mayors

London is unique in having two mayors. The Lord Mayor of the City of London represents the historic Square Mile, while the Mayor of London oversees Greater London. The Lord Mayor’s position dates back over 800 years, with a grand annual procession called the Lord Mayor’s Show.

9. The Unfortunate Fates of London Bridge

London Bridge has had a bit of bad luck over the years. The original Roman bridge was repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt. The medieval version was overcrowded with houses and shops, making it prone to fires. Then, in 1968, the modern bridge was sold to an American entrepreneur and reconstructed in Arizona, where it stands today. Many tourists often mistake Tower Bridge for London Bridge, which still stands in the city today.

10. The Underground Is Not the Deepest

Despite its name, the London Underground isn’t the world’s deepest subway system. That title goes to Kyiv’s Arsenalna station. However, Hampstead station on the Northern Line holds the record for the deepest station in London, at 192 feet below ground. You’ll need to take a lift or climb over 300 steps to reach the surface!