Exploring the Boundaries of London and Other Spots Known Simply as London
The boundaries of London are complex, with various areas each carrying their own distinct identity. While most regions within the capital city are known by specific local names, are there any exceptions? In this article, we delve into the question of whether there are areas within the City of London that are simply known as London. We will explore various locations like Buckingham Palace, The City of London, London Fields, and Apsley House.
Is There Anywhere in London Known Simply as London?
One might wonder if there are any areas within the boundaries of London that do not possess a specific name and are simply referred to as London. The answer to this question can be nuanced. Notably, Buckingham Palace, located in Westminster, is often associated with the city, yet it is not referred to as a part of London in the everyday context. Another example is the Tower of London, located in the Tower Hamlets, which, despite its name, is not typically called London.
The Case for Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is indeed a highly recognizable landmark in Westminster, yet it is not commonly referred to as a part of London. Unlike other areas like Hampstead, Fulham, Kensington, Moorgate, and Blackfriars, Buckingham Palace still retains its specific name and does not simply go by London.
The City of London - The Original London?
A potential example could be the City of London, often referred to as The City. However, The City is a one-square-mile financial district, and it is not necessarily synonymous with the entire capital. While it is the heart of London, it is its own entity with its own unique characteristics, much like the other areas described above. Additionally, the area is divided into several wards, each with its own identity.
A Case Study: Apsley House
One anecdotal instance that supports the idea of a location being known simply as London is Apsley House in Westminster. This historic residence was the home of the 1st Duke of Wellington for many years and was once known to trivia enthusiasts as "Number 1 London." This is because it was the first house past the turnpike toll house, which is now officially its correct postal address (149 Piccadilly).
Historical Context and Boundaries
Likewise, the original Roman area within the city walls, parts of which still remain, was never simply called London in the historical sense. Instead, it became the City of London, which covers the area of the medieval city over the same area, and it maintains its own police force separate from the Metropolitan Police (Met).
Another example is Moorgate, which was a gate in the wall where the current Moorgate crosses London Wall. North of it was Moor Field. To the east, Black Friars was a Dominican friary on the east edge of the River Fleet and just within the walls south of Ludgate. It roughly acquired the area between New Bridge Street and Puddle Dock / St Andrews Hill and from Pilgrim Street down to the Thames.
The Urban Fabric of London
London, as a city, was not planned in a singular design like some other cities. Instead, it evolved as a series of small towns and villages that gradually merged into a single entity. Consequently, areas within London retains their own individual identities, contributing to the rich tapestry of the city.
Postcodes Contribute to Specificity
In many cases, people in the central part of London, living in areas with specific postcodes such as SW1, W1, EC, and WC, are very particular about where they live. For instance, they might live in Pimlico, Belgravia, Mayfair, Fitzrovia, Bloomsbury, Covent Garden, or even the City of London, which describes a very small, specific area.
Conclusion
The term "London" is applied in a much broader context, often used interchangeably to refer to the entire city or metropolitan area. However, when it comes to specific areas and neighborhoods, each has its own name and identity. Whether or not there is anywhere known simply as "London" within its boundaries remains a matter of perspective and usage.