London Boroughs: A Historical Overview

London, the vibrant and sprawling metropolis we know today, has evolved significantly over the centuries. From its origins as a Roman settlement to the bustling global city of the present, the boundaries and administrative structure of London have undergone numerous changes. Central to this development are the London Boroughs, which play a crucial role in managing the city's local affairs.

Map of London Boroughs

Explore the individual boroughs below to learn more about their landmarks, streets, history, and what makes each one unique.

The History of London's Boroughs

The history of London's boroughs dates back to the medieval period. In the 12th century, the city was divided into wards, which were administrative districts governed by elected officials. However, it wasn't until the Local Government Act 1888 that London started taking its current form, with the creation of London County Council (LCC). At that time, the metropolis was divided into 28 Metropolitan Boroughs and the City of London. These boroughs were based on the older parishes and districts, and their boundaries were established to create a more organized and efficient local government. In 1965, a major reorganization of local government occurred, and the Greater London area was created, consisting of 32 boroughs (including the City of London, which retained its distinct status). The boundaries of the boroughs were adjusted in this reorganization, and the Greater London Authority (GLA) was established in 2000 to oversee the city's governance, with a Mayor of London and an elected London Assembly.

How London Expanded

From its beginnings as a Roman settlement (Londinium) around AD 43, London gradually expanded through centuries of conquest, settlement, and industrialization. The medieval city grew within its walls, but with the onset of the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century, London began to spread outwards. The rise of railways, improvements in transportation, and the increasing population led to the creation of new areas and boroughs in the suburbs.

As London grew, its administrative structure was revised to accommodate this expansion. The Metropolitan Board of Works (1855-1889) was responsible for overseeing infrastructure projects, including roads and sanitation, while the London County Council took on more direct governance roles in the 20th century.

The Last Changes to the Borough Boundaries

The most recent modification to the boundaries of the boroughs occurred in 1965, as part of the creation of Greater London. Prior to this, several boundary adjustments had been made, including the absorption of neighbouring counties like Middlesex and parts of Surrey. As a result, London now consists of 32 boroughs, each with its own local government, with the City of London retaining its distinct status. Interestingly, although the City of Westminster holds city status - a prestigious title granted by royal charter - it doesn't enjoy the same unique governance as the City of London. The City of Westminster is governed by the same structure as the other London boroughs, with a local council overseeing its administration. In contrast, the City of London has its own set of traditions and a distinct form of governance, including the election of a Lord Mayor of the City of London, who is separate from the Mayor of London. This makes the City of Westminster an interesting case, as it has city status but is still governed within the broader framework of Greater London's boroughs.

The Boroughs Today

Each of the 32 boroughs has its own unique characteristics, from the cosmopolitan vibrancy of the City of Westminster to the quiet, suburban feel of Richmond upon Thames. Here are some interesting facts about London's boroughs:

Newest Borough: The newest borough in Greater London is Bexley, which was formed in 1965 when the Metropolitan Borough of Bexley merged with parts of the County of Kent.

Biggest Borough: The largest borough by area is Hillingdon, located in the western part of Greater London. It spans 44.6 square miles and includes Heathrow Airport, one of the busiest airports in the world.

Smallest Borough: The smallest borough by area is Islington, which covers just 5.7 square miles in north London.

Most Densely Populated Borough: Islington is also the most densely populated, with around 14,000 people per square mile.

Least Densely Populated Borough: On the other end, Hillingdon is the least densely populated, with about 2,700 people per square mile.

Highest Mean Income: The borough with the highest mean income is Kensington and Chelsea, known for its affluent residents and luxurious properties. The average income in this area is considerably higher than the London-wide average.

Poorest Borough: The borough with the lowest mean income is Newham, an area that has historically faced higher levels of poverty and unemployment.

Conclusion

The London Boroughs are not just administrative divisions - they are a reflection of the city's complex history, from its Roman beginnings to its modern-day status as a global metropolis. Understanding the history and diversity of London's boroughs is essential for anyone interested in the city's development, culture, and character.