As the capital of England, the financial and political hub of Britain and the home of the reigning British monarch, London is rife with history.
In fact, some historical events in London are beyond weird and wonderful. For your amusement, here are 5 surprising facts about the history of London.
1. The length of the Olympic marathon was established in White City, Shepherds Bush in 1908
The race started at Windsor Castle and ended in front of the royal box in White City Stadium. Beforehand, the Olympic Committee agreed on a distance of 25 miles.
However, the route was altered so that it ended in front of the royal box, leaving that route 26 miles and 385 yards long, which became the standard distance from 1921.
The finish line is commemorated by a marker in the plaza of White City Place, which now stands in the stadium’s place.
The plaza is situated behind the BBC Broadcast Centre, down the road from BBC Studios Television Centre and Westfield London, which is only a 15-minute walk away from Dorsett Hotel, Shepherds Bush.
2. 18th-century Londoners were addicted to gin
If you think gin is popular now, then think again! Between 1700 and 1760, London experienced what is known as the “Gin Craze”. In this time, 10 million gallons of the spirit was distilled every year.
It is thought that, during the peak of the craze, Londoners drank on average two pints of gin a week.
There are even rumors of a woman who killed her two-year-old son in order to sell his clothes for gin.
3. University of London was the first British university to admit women
In 1868 or 1878, depending on the source, the University of London admitted nine women to their institution.
This was the first time in British history in which women were allowed access to a university education.
It was all made possible because the university managed to get a supplemental charter which allowed it to award its degrees to women.
4. The Tube used to be powered by steam locomotives
When the London Underground first opened in 1863, the trains used were gas-lit wooden carriages, and locomotives originally powered by steam engines.
In fact, the Tube’s underground sections of train lines weren’t fully electrified until 1907.
So, if you thought the Central line during rush hour was bad, you can only imagine the heat and the smell from the underground steam engines during the 19th century.
Still, at least it wasn’t a series of underground rivers with commuter barges, as originally planned.
5. People have inhabited London since before 2,000 BC
Yes, that’s right, there have been people living in London for over 4,000 years.
We know this because excavations west of London have revealed remains of circular huts which date from before 2000 BC.
However, as with much inner-city archaeology, there are few remains of anything from before the Roman occupation of Britain from around 43 AD.
There you have it – 5 of the most surprising facts about London’s extensive history.
Now you’ve heard all about it, your upcoming visit will be all the more interesting.