Walking Route Through the City of London’s Dragons
What to see in London? Which walking route to choose? If you’re looking for something beyond the usual stroll along the Thames, why not try a unique route through the City of London, where you can discover almost all of its dragons?
In addition to the dragons, you’ll enjoy the beauty of London’s streets, featuring a mix of historic and modern buildings. For instance, you’ll pass by Barbican, a brutalist architectural masterpiece near the dragon on Goswell Street. Then you’ll see The Charterhouse, a medieval monastery, and stroll past Smithfield Market, which, according to rumors, has been around for almost 800 years.
The City of London is a unique place, often regarded as the starting point of London’s history. One of its most recognizable symbols is the dragon, which adorns the coat of arms and guards the city’s borders.
The origins of these dragons remain unclear. Some believe they are connected to the legend of St. George and the Dragon, as St. George is the patron saint of England. Dragons are also central figures in English folklore, from ancient Anglo-Saxon mythological tales such as Beowulf.
The route on Google Maps is at the end of the article.
1. London Bridge Begin your route at London Bridge, the southern border of the City of London. Here, you’ll find the first dragons marking the entrance to the historic city.
2. Aldgate House Dragon On the eastern border of the City, near Aldgate House, stands another dragon marking the city’s entrance.
3. Moorgate Dragon The third dragon is located at Moorgate, once the northern gateway into the City of London.
4. Dragon on Goswell Street (Near the Barbican) Close to the Barbican, you’ll find another dragon on Goswell Street. Be sure to explore the Barbican complex, a remarkable example of brutalist architecture and a cultural gem.
5. Smithfield Market One of London’s oldest trading places, Smithfield Market, dates back to the Middle Ages when it hosted fairs and public events. The dragons adorning its façade emphasize its connection to the City of London. With its stained glass and 19th-century decorative elements, the market is not only a historical landmark but also an architectural wonder.
6. Dragon at the Intersection of Farrington and Charterhouse Streets At this busy intersection, you’ll find the next dragon, marking another historic City border.
7. Dragons neare the Chancery Lane
8. Temple Bar Dragon (Temple Bar Memorial) One of the most famous dragons stands where the historic Temple Bar gates once divided the City of London and Westminster. Created in 1880 by sculptor Charles Bell Birch, this richly adorned dragon monument was commissioned by the royal family and government to surpass the previous design marking this historic gateway.
9. Victoria Embankment Dragons End your journey at Victoria Embankment. This spot combines historical significance with picturesque views, making it a perfect conclusion to the route.
Useful Information
Starting point: London Bridge
Route duration: Approximately 2 hours
What to bring: Comfortable shoes, water, and a camera to capture the sights
View the route on the Google map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Pn3MpW3J4iMmddVKA?g_st=ic