London is one of the most famous cities in the world and the capital of the United Kingdom.
In fact, for the 10th consecutive year, London claimed first place in the 2025 World’s Best Cities ranking, proving it’s still the world’s favorite capital.
PIN FOR LATER 📌
It’s a place where history meets modern life—you can see castles, ride the world’s oldest underground trains, and grab a snack from a bustling street food market all in the same day.
These fun facts about London will give kids, parents, and teachers a taste of what makes this incredible city so special.
25 Fun Facts About London
1. London is the capital of the United Kingdom
London isn’t just the capital of England—it’s also the capital of the entire United Kingdom. More than 9 million people live there, and it’s one of the busiest cities in Europe. It’s also home to the British government, the royal family’s main residence, and countless landmarks.
2. The River Thames runs through London
The River Thames winds its way right through the center of London. It’s the longest river in England and has been an important waterway for trade and travel for centuries. Today, you can even take a boat tour to see London’s sights from the water.
3. The Tower of London is almost 1,000 years old
Built by William the Conqueror in 1078, the Tower of London has been used as a royal palace, a prison, and even a zoo. Today, it’s one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. It’s also home to the dazzling Crown Jewels, which are guarded by the famous Yeoman Warders, also called Beefeaters.
4. Big Ben isn’t the name of the clock tower
Most people think the tower is called “Big Ben,” but that’s actually the name of the enormous bell inside. The tower itself is officially called the Elizabeth Tower, renamed in honor of Queen Elizabeth II. Big Ben chimes every hour and is one of the most recognized sounds in London.
5. London has one of the oldest underground railways in the world
The London Underground, or “the Tube,” first opened in 1863, making it the world’s very first underground railway. Today, it stretches over 250 miles and carries millions of passengers every day. The colorful Tube map has become an icon of the city.
6. London is home to over 170 museums
From the British Museum, which holds treasures from all over the world, to the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum, London is a dream city for curious minds. Many of these museums are free to enter, which makes them popular with families.
7. Trafalgar Square is guarded by lions
In the middle of Trafalgar Square stands Nelson’s Column, a monument to a famous naval hero. At its base are four giant bronze lion statues that have become some of London’s most photographed features. Visitors, especially kids, love climbing onto them for fun photos.
8. London has more than 200 bridges
The city is full of bridges that cross the River Thames, each with its own history. Tower Bridge, with its twin towers and lifting roadway, is one of the most famous. London Bridge has also been rebuilt several times, with versions dating back nearly 2,000 years.
9. Buckingham Palace is the King’s official home
With 775 rooms, including 78 bathrooms, Buckingham Palace is one of the most impressive buildings in London. It’s the official residence of King Charles III, and crowds gather daily to watch the “Changing of the Guard” ceremony outside its gates.
10. London is very multicultural
Over 300 languages are spoken in London, making it one of the most diverse cities in the world. People from nearly every corner of the globe live there, which also makes London’s food, festivals, and culture incredibly varied and exciting.
11. The London Eye is one of the tallest observation wheels in the world.
The London Eye stands at 443 feet and was once the tallest observation wheel on Earth. Each of its glass capsules can hold about 25 people, and the full ride takes around 30 minutes. On a clear day, you can see for miles across the city.
12. London has hosted the Olympics three times
London is the only city in the world to have hosted the Summer Olympic Games three times—1908, 1948, and 2012. The 2012 Games left behind modern stadiums and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, which visitors can explore today.
13. The city is full of parks and green spaces
London has more than 3,000 parks, from enormous Hyde Park to smaller neighborhood gardens. These green spaces cover nearly one-fifth of the city’s land, offering a place to relax, play, and spot birds and wildlife.
14. Double-decker buses are a London icon
London’s bright red double-decker buses are one of the city’s most recognizable symbols. While tourists love sitting on the top deck for the view, these buses are also a regular part of daily life for Londoners.
15. London is a city of festivals
From the colorful Notting Hill Carnival to huge celebrations of Chinese New Year, London hosts festivals year-round. These events fill the streets with music, dancing, and food, showing off the city’s multicultural spirit.
16. The Shard is the tallest building in London
Soaring over 1,000 feet high, The Shard is the tallest building in the UK. It’s shaped like a glass pyramid and has an observation deck where visitors can look out over the entire city skyline.
17. London has over 8 million trees
There are so many trees in London that some people call it the world’s largest urban forest. These trees provide shade, fresh air, and a home for birds and squirrels—even in the middle of the busy city.
18. The Natural History Museum had a giant dinosaur
The museum’s central hall is famous for “Dippy,” a giant Diplodocus skeleton that once greeted visitors. Today, a blue whale skeleton named “Hope” hangs from the ceiling, but the dinosaur remains one of the museum’s most loved icons.
19. The Millennium Bridge is nicknamed the “Wobbly Bridge.”
When the bridge opened in 2000, it wobbled so much that engineers had to close it and fix the problem. The nickname “Wobbly Bridge” stuck, even though it’s now perfectly safe to cross. It also appears in several movies, including Harry Potter.
20. The Globe Theatre brings Shakespeare’s plays to life
The Globe Theatre is a reconstruction of the original theatre where William Shakespeare’s plays were first performed in the 1600s. Today, actors still perform his plays there in the open air, just like in Shakespeare’s time.
21. London has black cabs that are world-famous
London’s traditional black taxis are roomy and easy to spot. Drivers must pass a tough test called “The Knowledge,” which means they memorize thousands of streets and landmarks before they can get their license.
22. The city is full of royal history
London has hosted coronations, royal weddings, and parades for hundreds of years. Westminster Abbey is where kings and queens are crowned, and it’s one of the most visited sites in the city.
23. The Tower Bridge lifts up like a drawbridge
Tower Bridge is one of London’s most recognizable landmarks. Its central section can raise up to let tall ships pass through, and watching it open is a highlight for visitors.
24. Street food is popular in London
London’s multicultural mix means you can find almost any kind of food in its markets and food stalls. From traditional fish and chips to international street snacks, the city’s food scene is always exciting.
25. London has inspired countless books and movies
Famous stories like Harry Potter, Peter Pan, and Sherlock Holmes are all set in London. The city’s historic streets, landmarks, and foggy atmosphere make it a favorite backdrop for stories and films.
London is a city where history, culture, and fun come together. From the mighty River Thames to the top of the London Eye, these fun facts show just how much there is to discover in the United Kingdom’s capital!
TRY THIS NEXT: 25 Amazing Fun Facts About Morocco For Kids