Density
A city whose centre keeps changingOur World
London
Follow London through Roman settlement, shifting medieval centres, disaster, government and transport.
Subject guide · scope, chapters & sources ↗Selected milestones in Roman London, the City and later Greater London. An approximate Roman foundation is not the first human presence, nor proof of uninterrupted urban occupation. Latest milestone is the verified 2022 central Elizabeth line opening, not an assertion that change stopped then.
London’s trading centre moves west
Lundenwic grows outside the largely abandoned Roman city.
Alfred restores the walled town
Settlement returns to the Roman defences.
The White Tower asserts Norman power
A massive royal keep dominates the city.
Fire destroys much of the City
A bakery fire spreads through densely built streets.
A polluted river forces action
The Great Stink helps unlock funding for new sewers.
The Metropolitan Railway opens
Passengers travel below London’s streets.
The Blitz strikes London’s docks
Mass bombing devastates docklands and nearby homes.
Greater London gains a new council
New metropolitan and borough authorities take over.
The Elizabeth line opens through central London
New tunnels connect Paddington and Abbey Wood.