From Europe to America
And speaking of which, try and get a view of the Square Mile as night falls. The area takes on a totally different complexion as darkness encroaches.
See also: Fitzrovia, the London borough you've probably never heard of.
The Punch Tavern on Fleet Street is named for the famous satirical 'Punch' magazine that used to operate out of nearby offices. Once a Victorian gin palace, this is still the place to order a G&T in convivial surroundings.
Visitors to the museum inside the Bank of England (left) can pick up a gold bar as part of the experience... as long as they put it back afterward! Opposite stands the Royal Exchange (right) which houses a bar, restaurant, café, and a number of high-end retail outlets.
They've been serving thirsty Londoners on this site at Ely Court since 1540, which makes this pub one of the oldest in the land. What you see today dates back to around 1773.
Historic England describes the Lloyd's Building as "universally recognized as one of the key buildings of the modern epoch." It's been used on numerous occasions as a filming location: 'Mamma Mia!' (2008) and 'Proof of Life' (2000) are among the movies partly shot on the premises.
Dating back to 1440, this is the City of London's ceremonial and administrative center. Usually off limits to Londoners, the building opens its doors to the public during the annual London Open House weekend, usually held on the third weekend in September.
Hidden behind St Bartholomew's Hospital is this patch of green space that few bother to explore. The gardens enclose a Memorial to Heroic Self-Sacrifice, which comprises over 50 ceramic plaques commemorating ordinary people who died committing heroic acts.
The museum is where to linger and absorb the history of the UK's capital city from prehistoric to modern times. Pictured is part of a 13th-century timber wall from the Thames riverbank at Billingsgate.
Remnants of the London Wall, the defensive wall first built by the Romans around their Londinium, can be seen within the Square Mile. Pictured is Bastion 14, which is overlooked by the Museum of London.
It's suggested that Sir Christopher Wren built this tavern in 1668 using timber from old ships. It's also been suggested that the thirsty architect that designed St Paul's Cathedral sat in one of the upstairs rooms.
Some of the finest and certainly the loftiest views of London can be enjoyed from the Shard's three viewing platforms, on floors 68, 69, and 72, but you'll need to book in advance for the privilege. The building stands in Southwark.
Nicknamed "The Walkie-Talkie" because of its distinctive shape, this commercial skyscraper has a top-heavy form that appears to burst upward and outward. It's a familiar London skyline landmark.
"When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life." So penned the great 18th-century writer, poet, and playwright, Samuel Johnson. His former residence is now a museum.
Better known as The Gherkin, this is one of several contemporary buildings distinguishing London's modern skyline. Besides corporate tenants, retailers and restaurants operate from the site.
It can be thirsty work walking the Square Mile and if you only nip into one pub, make sure it's this one. Dating back to 1874, the Viaduct Tavern at 126 Newgate is one of the most beautiful ale houses in London town.
The City of London is colloquially known as the Square Mile. Within its boundaries stand some of the greatest visitor attractions in the capital, and indeed the UK.
But scattered too are lesser-known landmarks including pubs, museums, churches, and green spaces. And the best thing about discovering these places is that they're all within easy walking distance of each other.
Browse the gallery and get ready to walk a mile with a smile.
Sightseeing London's Square Mile
Exploring the City of London on foot
TRAVEL London
The City of London is colloquially known as the Square Mile. Within its boundaries stand some of the greatest visitor attractions in the capital, and indeed the UK.
But scattered too are lesser-known landmarks including pubs, museums, churches, and green spaces. And the best thing about discovering these places is that they're all within easy walking distance of each other.
Browse the gallery and get ready to walk a mile with a smile.