City Area Guide

Somewhat confusingly named, City is short of the City of London, which is actually its own city within London. Now the heart of the financial district, the City is a bustling part of central London and an enviable location to live in.

This guide goes into detail about living in the City such as supermarkets nearby, must-visit bars and restaurants, and what transport links are like. If you’re considering living at the urbanest City student accommodation, we have everything you need to know.

 

Where is the City of London?

London is a very old city and has expanded significantly over the last hundred years, now encompassing a much larger area. The original Roman settlement of London is a smaller area, predominantly where the financial district now resides, around Canary Wharf. Just north of the river Thames and Tower Bridge, City urbanest is surrounded by Whitechapel, Finsbury, and Barbican.

Living in City

If you’re looking to live in London, a City location is as central as you can get. Don’t worry though – the City of London isn’t just for going out. There are plenty of amenities for the lucky residents of this borough, from supermarkets to dentists, we’ll tell you where to find everything you might need.

 City Transport Links

  • There are 7 tube stops in the City with Aldgate and Tower Hill being the closest to urbanest City
  • London Fenchurch Street and London Liverpool Street are “terminal” stations, which means they services routes across the country
  • There are over 10 bus stops less than 5-minute walk from urbanest City
  • Multiple cycle superhighways cross through the City into outer areas of London
  • Catching a cab is easy – hail any black cab with its light on, book an uber, or try a local company like Brick Lane Taxis
  • Don’t forget the London River Services! Catch a river bus to your destination from Canary Wharf.

 

City Healthcare

If you’re a student new to the city, healthcare may be one of your top concerns. Using the NHS services linked below, you can find a GP, dentist, pharmacy, and optician that’s close to you living in Hoxton. Just enter the urbanest City postcode which is EC3N 2PX and you’ll be provided with a list of healthcare services close by.

For all you international students, the NHS is the UK’s National Healthcare Service. You should register with a doctor as soon as you arrive in London and if you’re not sure how to do so, your university will be able to provide help and support.

In an emergency, the nearest hospital is the Royal London Hospital, which is only 10-minutes away if driving.

City Supermarkets

You’re never far from a supermarket in the City. There are multiple Tesco Express and Sainsbury Local stores within a 10-15 minute walk of the accommodation. There is also a Waitrose in St. Katharine’s Dock, which is 20-minutes away.

For larger shops, you can also order shopping to your door. This is great if you don’t have a car or need to stock up on bulkier items.

Places to visit in the City

The City of London is a hotspot for historic tourism and sightseeing. Take a stroll down the river to take in the iconic London skyline, from Tower Bridge, HMS Belfast, down to London Bridge, you’ll always find something new to see and do!

Tower of London

At 1000 years old, the Tower of London is a must-see when in the City. Take a guided tour to learn all about the long and bloody history of this site, as well as see the famous “beefeaters”, their ravens, and maybe even some of the alleged ghosts!

Location: EC3N 4AB

St Paul’s Cathedral

One of the most recognizable buildings on the London skyline, St Paul’s Cathedral is a breath-taking visit. The site was originally built 1400 years ago, but the cathedral as it stands now was designed in the 17th century and is one of the best examples of English Baroque architecture. Don’t forget to climb to the viewing gallery for beautiful views of the City and beyond.

Location: St. Paul’s Churchyard, EC4M 8AD

Museum of London

Step in and learn about London’s 450,000-year history here. From pre-historic artefacts to Roman London, to the modern day, there’s plenty to see, as well as seasonal exhibits and special events. If you’re new to London or fascinated by its history, you can’t miss a trip (or two) here.

Location: 150 London Wall, Barbican, EC2Y 5HN

 

Food and Drinks near City

The City of London is a gastronomic hotspot, with a plethora of restaurants and bars to try. Whether you’re a fan of brunch, wine by the river, or late evening pints, you’ll find your new favourite spot just a stone’s throw from urbanest City.

Leadenhall Market

This Victorian market dates back to the 14th century and is a true gem in the City. With both shops and restaurants located in the market, it’s the perfect afternoon out. The ornate architecture is particularly beautiful around Christmas, so make sure to drop by when picking up Christmas presents!

Location: Gracechurch St, EC3V 1LT

City of London Distillery

Gin lovers can’t pass this one up. The City of London Distillery and Bar is the home of Whitney Neil gin and the first gin distillery to be opened in the City in more than 200 years. Take a guided tour through the distillery to learn more about the process or if you’re feeling more adventurous, try making a personalised bottle of gin to your tastes!

Location: 22-24 Bride Ln, EC4Y 8DT

 Eataly

A beloved food market in the heart of the City that specialises in fresh Italian food. Here you’ll find bars, restaurants, food counters, and shops full of authentic Italian food from pastas, breads, cheeses, and desserts. For big foodies, they also host cooking classes and dining experiences.

Location: 135 Bishopsgate, EC2M 3YD

Entertainment venues near City

If you’re living in London, you can be assured there will never be a shortage of things to do. From gigs, plays, and pop-up experiences, there is something for everyone. We’ve rounded up a few of our top things to do near urbanest City.

Immersive Gamebox

For something different, head just across the river to South Bank and visit Immersive Gamebox. This is an interactive gaming venue where you can play loads of different games with your friends. Choose from a library of games and use VR technology to play like you never have before.

Location: Arch 3, 83 Scoresby St, SE1 0XN

Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre

Just down the river, you’ll find the legendary Globe Theatre which hosted many of Shakespeare’s original plays in the 17th century. Nowadays, it’s still well worth the visit. Take a tour of the theatre, join a class on Shakespeare, and of course, see one of the famous plays themselves.

Location: 21 New Globe Walk, SE1 9DT

Sky Garden

The Sky Garden is an uber-modern food, drink, and music venue, and London’s highest public garden. There are 3 restaurants and 2 bars within that specialise in seasonal, British food and drinks. From morning yoga to live DJs, enjoy the all-year tropical garden 36 floors in the sky.

Location: SKY GARDEN, 1 SKY GARDEN WALK, EC3M 8AF

We hope this guide has been helpful and you’re looking forward to your time at urbanest City. For more local advice take a look at our recommendations for places to eat and drink in Whitechapel or start scoping out the best cafes for studying.