What do the Square Mile, Canary Wharf, and Lombard Street all have in common? These are some of the most important business districts in
London. The British capital serves as a global hub for business, commerce, and finance. Part of why the city's population is almost 10 million is that countless people have moved here to work. London is one of the best places to climb up the corporate ladder. Whether it's in tech, finance, fashion, or media, you'll find such businesses operating in this city. And most of them are located in these central business districts.
Square Mile
If you want to
open a bank account in the UK, Square Mile is the best place to start. Best known as the City of London—which only refers to the city's main financial district, not the entire British capital—the country's major financial institutions work here. There's the Bank of England, the London Stock Exchange, and numerous other banking corporations. Many of these businesses have been operating here for centuries, making it one of the more historic
neighborhoods in London too. Unsurprisingly, famous London landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London are located here too.
Canary Wharf
From former docklands, Canary Wharf is now the second financial center of London. Name any major financial business known around the world and you'll find that they have an office here. Some of these big names include HSBC, Wells Fargo, Barclays, JPMorgan Chase, MetLife, and more. It helps that while various corporations operate here, the Canary Wharf Group plc (CWG) oversees the entire district. They're in charge of the area's real estate development, investment, management, and more. This helps the district proceed smoothly, no matter how diverse the businesses here become.
City of Westminster
The entire City of Westminster is another of London's most important business districts. It's the political heart of the UK, home to various government buildings and landmarks that deal with the country's governance. Among the most notable include
Buckingham Palace and the Palace of Westminster, two places where the country's leaders institute laws. Amidst these important offices is a variety of businesses, ranging from media and news companies to luxury retail spaces and shopping districts. They provide the bustling commerce and contribute to London's huge economy, not to mention boost the city's tourism too.
Lombard Street
Banking in London dates as far back as the Middle Ages. At a time of iron-clad knights and veiled court ladies, people were already banking in the British capital, and you can see the history of it on Lombard Street. From then until now, Lombard Street has remained one of London's central financial centers. While other districts now play a bigger part in the city's (and the country's) economy, this area is still lined with several banks and other financial institutions. Moreover, Lombard Street also has ample office spaces for both startups and big businesses to operate.
Southwark
The Southwark borough of London has truly changed over the years. Back then, the area was a crime-filled dystopia that greatly contributed to London's high crime rates. But after the London Government Act 1963 amalgamated the various areas in South London, it eventually became a safer place—specifically, a safer place for businesses. Over time, Southwark's regeneration allowed companies to set up shop here. And it didn't take long for the area to become one of the best places to find work in the British capital. Even more so for those who have just
moved to London.
Camden
What's great about London's corporate world is that it's as diverse as its population. While most people think of business districts as sprawling metropolises filled with big buildings, big banks, and big businessmen, Camden is a far cry from all of that. This haven of counter-culture is a treasure trove of small businesses. Camden has some of the best live music venues, alternative clubs, trendy bars, cool cafes, record stores, and
vintage clothing shops in London. A hipster hub that has never lost its bohemian edge, this is the best place for anyone who wants to escape the rigidity of London's corporate world.
Islington
London's art scene is alive and well in Islington, another of London's more surprising but nevertheless important business districts. Don't expect the British capital's typical corporate settings here, much like in Camden. Instead of office buildings and major banks, Islington is more about the chic art galleries, antique shops, and of course, a series of indie cafes and family-owned restaurants. Though they're small and mostly alternative, these establishments are still successful businesses where you can also work. The best part is that Islington is also a fairly residential area. You can easily
rent a luxurious London apartment here and stay close to your job in the district.
If you want to work in London, you need to know about the city's important business districts. From finance to fashion and everything in between, these are areas where London's commerce reigns supreme. They're also integral to the city's overall economy.
