London

London is the capital and largest city of the United Kingdom. It lies in southeastern England on both banks of the River Thames, which flows through the city before reaching the North Sea. Its location helped London develop as an important port and centre of trade, while its extensive transport network later strengthened its connections with the rest of the country and the world. London has a temperate maritime climate, with generally mild winters, cool to warm summers and rainfall spread throughout the year.

The city is made up of many districts with different characters, from the historic centre around the City of London and Westminster to large residential areas and green spaces. Greater London covers a much larger area than the central city and includes 32 boroughs as well as the City of London. The metropolitan area is one of Europe's major centres for finance, culture, education, media and international business. London has a history stretching back nearly two thousand years.

The Romans founded Londinium around the middle of the 1st century CE, and the settlement grew into an important commercial centre. Over the centuries, London expanded along the Thames and became the political centre of England and later of the United Kingdom. Important landmarks include the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, the Palace of Westminster and St Paul's Cathedral. Many museums and cultural institutions, such as the British Museum and the National Gallery, attract visitors from around the world.

London is also known for its public transport, including the Underground, which opened in 1863 and became the world's first underground railway system. Today, the city combines historic buildings with modern offices, universities, theatres and diverse neighbourhoods. Its long history and international connections have made London a city with a strong influence far beyond the United Kingdom.