Travel Guide - London
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    Geography of London

    London, what we know as the largest urban area and capital city of the United Kingdom, is originally a port on the River Thames. In the geography of London, the Thames, a navigable river, plays the most significant part. If we look into the earlier days, the city began as a port establishment on the north bank of the river and the northern shore remained the main centre of London’s activities for a long period. It was only during the 18th century that the city started expansion in all directions and the flat rolling countryside helped in its growth to the present status. In London’s geography, rivers and canals play an important role. Flowing in west to east direction across the London Basin, the River Thames is the largest waterway of the area. However, within the city, there are several small rivers and streams that flow into the Thames. Among its left bank tributaries, the most important one is the Lea that influenced geographical features of London in various ways, including acting as a barrier to east-west movement; providing power for multiple water mills; and forming a route of transportation. When it comes to division, London can be divided into Greater London, the City of London or The City, North London and South London. Greater London covers 1,579 square kilometers of area and has a population density of 4,542 individuals per square kilometer. Greater London is divided into Inner London and Outer London. River Thames divides the city into North and South, as well as to central London, an informal area in its interior. While in terms of administration, London city is split into 32 boroughs and The City of London, each with its own administrative council.
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    Culture in London

    When it comes to diverse beauty, London is one of the most vibrant melting pots of culture in the world. Inhabited by a population belonging to diverse regions all across the globe, the capital city of England presents a beautiful blend of traditions and rituals of various countries. From arts to music and from museums to festivals, one can easily catch the glimpse of the culture in London in the shades of every thing and action. Mainly admired for its traditional theatre art, there are several iconic landmarks in the city that are considered as the true holders of London culture. Ranging from the Royal Opera House to the British Museum and from Notting Hill Carnival to Trooping the Colour, it is the unity amidst diversity of traditions and trends that make this old yet metropolis beauty a charming destination to visit once in life. There are various attractive features that contribute together in forming the vibrant culture of London. One of the main features of the city’s culture is its ethnicity, thanks to its high immigration rates. According to the Office for National Statistics record of period 1991-2001, about 726,000 immigrants arrived in London. Besides this, its population reached 7,172,000 as per 2001 Census, which is 14.6% of the total population of the country. Demographically speaking, about 69.4% of the total population of London was constituted by White people, according to 2006 estimates of the Office for National Statistics. South Asian individuals made up only 13% with Indians adding only 6.5%. Around 10.7% of population in London is comprised of black people, including Black African, Black Caribbean and other black groups. Chinese forms only 1.5% while 1.9% belongs to other ethnic groups. As per 2008 report, about 40% of the total population of London belongs to ethnic minority communities. Religion in London: When we say culture in London, religion strikingly comes into the mind itself. The main religion of the city is Christian followed by around 58.2% of Londoners. Another religion that follows it is Islam with 8.5% followers of total population and further on to Hindus with 4.1%. Other religions like Jews, Sikhs and Buddhism constitute only a small part. London city also has significant number of non-followers (15.8%). Architecture in London: The capital city of England does not follow any particular architectural style. From the striking architecture of late 17th century churches to several institutions and historical buildings of 18th and 19th centuries to 20th centuries skyscrapers that reveal the fascination of modern style, London showcases the architectural style of almost all eras of the time period. However, a stroll around the South Bank and Notting Hill area is just a thing not to be missed during the trip. Art in London: There are a variety of landmarks and objects that are considered as great masterpieces of art works in London city. Musical concerts, painting exhibitions, opera performances, street entertainment, visual art, colorful festivals and worthy museums and galleries, all make the art scenario of London city quite fascinating and lively. Reflecting a journey from Renaissance era to the Age of Enlightenment to contemporary art, culture in London is a fusion of art works of ages.