Founded by the Romans, London is home to some of the UK’s best attractions. In fact, just within the city of London and within easy walking distance of the Montcalm Brewery Hotel lie the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Museum of London.
Of course, visual attractions are not the only things on offer in London. Within the old city walls you will find a myriad of top-class restaurants and independent bars which offer world-class food and drink.
But, let’s back up.
The Romans founded London in AD50. By that time, they already had a hold over most of the known world. That meant that international trade was already booming in old London. That link to the outside world has continued ever since, with a vibrant mix of eateries and culture scenes on offer.
The city’s boundaries have remained untouched since the Romans built their defensive wall around 1.5 square miles of prime location. Today the wall can still be seen especially around Blackfriars and the Tower of London.
If you are staying at a hotel near Moorgate you will be a mere step away from the City of London and everything it has to offer. But, you are also just a short distance from Southwark, Covent Garden and the famous West End.
London’s transport links are second to none so getting around couldn’t be easier. However, we’ve put together a few pointers to get you started.
Read on to discover what there is to do near the Montcalm at the Brewery London City.
Things to see in the City of London
What attractions are there in the City of London? You may be forgiven for thinking that the City is nothing more than a financial zone and in some ways you are right. The City has been the focal point of world trade since Roman times and nothing much has changed in that respect, although the buildings have got bigger.
But actually, the City contains a vast array of architectural styles and if you know where to look you can see glimpses of the City throughout the ages. Take for instances some of the magnificent churches built by Sir Christopher Wren in the 17th Century.
Wren was charged with the rebuilding of the city of London after the Great Fire. His initial plans were drawn up for a whole new road layout which, if given the go-ahead, would have been similar to that found in the heart of Paris. But Wren’s idea for the road layout wasn’t given the green light and instead he found his inspiration the building of churches.
Within the City you’ll also find the Old Bailey – the UK’s principal law court, and not far from there you’ll be able to visit the Barbican centre, built in the 1960s and housing restaurants and concert halls.
Some of the other attractions in the City of London include Tower Bridge, The Monument, The Royal Exchange, Guildhall Art Gallery, Mansion House, Dr Johnson’s House and the London Mithraeum. Don’t forget as well as you make your way around to keep an eye out for little parts of the Roman wall still in existence today.
There are plenty of walking tours in and around London. Grab a TimeOut magazine or better still refer to one of the London visitor smartphone apps for details of when and where these walks take place. Alternatively, you can head to the City of London Information Centre to find out more about things to see in the City of London.
Shopping in The City of London
Head for Leadenhall Market just a stone’s throw from The Montcalm Brewery Hotel. Step back in time as you enter a beautiful Victorian marketplace that is sited on an ancient market that dates back to the Roman era. Leadenhall market is called such because in the 14th Century there was on the site a mansion with a lead roof. The mansion is long gone but in its place is something equally as impressive.
Browse the many stalls within the market and then head for one of the various independent eateries located in or nearby. The Harry Potter films featured Leadenhall market.
After Leadenhall make sure you visit Covent Garden and Spitalfields market. If you’re in the mood to buy something unique and unseen on the high street, then either of these shopping areas is perfect.
Spitalfields market was established in 1682 and has been a market ever since. It used to be a place to buy meat and fish but now hosts some fantastically different independent shops.
Restaurants in The City of London
If you’re in the mood for food, then look no further than the City of London. There are some supreme (and world-class) eateries within the “square mile” most of which are independently owned and within easy reach of some of the best hotels in London.
Of course – technically – you don’t even have to leave your hotel to get a tasty bite to eat or a tempting tipple.
For a quick takeaway breakfast, casual lunch, a steaming cup of coffee, or a pint, head to Burdock, located at the latest Montcalm Hotel in Finsbury Square. If you’d rather enjoy your meal or drink with a view, Aviary is no doubt a top choice. Located on the 10th floor of the Montcalm Hotel in Finsbury Square, guests will enjoy unrivalled views of the cityscape alongside a carefully curated and seasonal menu for brunch, lunch, dinner and snacks.
Check out our full list of restaurants and bars available to guests and the general public here!
Travel around the City of London
From the Montcalm Brewery Hotel getting around London is easy. You can travel from Liverpool Street which has connections via the tube, buses, taxis and mainline railways to anywhere in London. Some smartphone apps are great at letting you pick the easiest (or most scenic) route to your next port of call.
You could even hire a bicycle or register to use one of the many Santander bikes on offer at stands around the City. Beware though, cycling in London can be hazardous and is best avoided if you have young children.
Stations nearby Liverpool Street include Blackfriars, Fenchurch Street and Moorgate. From any of these stations, you can take a tube in to the West End of an overground train to distant parts. You may even choose to take some time out of the hustle and bustle of London and venture further out. If you do, you will find the transport links are second to none.
If you are planning a trip around London it is well worth your while to buy a Visitor Oyster Card, which you can get in advance of your trip. The Visitor Oyster Card is delivered to your home address prior to your visit to London. Having a pre-paid Oyster card is the easiest ways to get around London because you don’t have to worry about finding the money for train or bus fares at the time.
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