London Overview

London is without a doubt one of the world's greatest cities that offers something for everyone. The city is almost 2,000 years old and demonstrates an explosive mix of old and new. This is the place where punk rock exists seamlessly next to the changing of the guards and where medieval architecture is reflected in the shiny veneer of cutting edge buildings. London is permeated by its rich history, it has a multi-cultural pulse, a vibrant nightlife and unbeknown to most, more that a hint of romance.

Close to 8 million people live in this town, which spans over 1706 sq Km. Between the Houses of Parliament to the west and the City of London to the east, lie a host of exciting attractions. Famously, Madame Tussauds and the Planeterium, The Victoria and Albert Museum which attract a large number of visitors but London is also full of lesser known gems that are Borough Market, Spitalfields, St. Paul's Cathedral.

London offers a huge variety of distinct and lively areas such as Knightsbridge, Chelsea, Soho, the West End and Marylebone High Street, all of which offer excellent shopping opportunities, bars and restaurants. Outside the city centre are Greenwich (southeast), Richmond (southwest) and Hampstead (north), Brick Lane (east) and Notting Hill (west), all of which have their own unique identity.

London facts and figures

Area : 607 sq mi ( 1572 sq km )

Population : 7.4 million ( metropolitan area )

Time zone : GMT

Electricity : 240 volts, 50Hz, angled two or three-pronged plugs

Average January temp : 6°C (43°F)

Average July temp : 19°C (66°F)

Annual rainfall : 799mm (32 inches)

Airports : Heathrow- Gatwick - Stansted - Luton - London City

Country Dialing Code : +44

Area Code : 0207 and 0208

Music

Special Events

Sport

Army V Navy - for the Babcock Trophy

Brit Insurance Super Series Squash

Guinness Premiership Final

Emirates Airline London Sevens

County Finals Day