Welcome to our delightful guide on London's boroughs! As a souvenir shop nestled in the heart of this vibrant city, we believe that each of the capital's 32 boroughs has its own story, charm, and must-have souvenirs.
Whether you're exploring the historic streets of Westminster or the trendy areas of Shoreditch, this guide will help you discover the unique character of each borough and find the perfect memento to take home.
An overview of each borough, highlighting their key attractions and popular souvenirs.
Borough | Population | Area (km²) | Key Attractions | Popular Souvenirs |
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Barking and Dagenham | 211,000 | 36.09 | Eastbury Manor House, Valence House Museum | Industrial Heritage Books, Local Artworks, Handmade Crafts |
Barnet | 389,000 | 86.74 | Hampstead Garden Suburb, Barnet Museum | Hampstead Heath Prints, Local Honey, Historic Maps |
Bexley | 250,000 | 60.56 | Danson House, Hall Place and Gardens | Local Honey, Historic House Memorabilia, Artisan Crafts |
Brent | 329,000 | 43.24 | Wembley Stadium, Roundwood Park | Wembley Stadium Merchandise, Local Art Prints, Handmade Crafts |
Bromley | 331,000 | 150.15 | Down House, Crystal Palace Park | Nature-Themed Gifts, Local Pottery, Historic Site Memorabilia |
Camden | 262,000 | 21.8 | Camden Market, Regent’s Park | Camden Market Trinkets, Music Memorabilia, Gothic Accessories |
Croydon | 384,000 | 87.19 | Museum of Croydon, Boxpark Croydon | Art Prints, Cultural Artifacts, Local Produce |
Ealing | 341,000 | 55.53 | Ealing Studios, Walpole Park | Ealing Film Studio Memorabilia, Local Honey, Handcrafted Pottery |
Enfield | 333,000 | 82.20 | Forty Hall, Trent Park | Vintage Books, Handmade Soaps |
Greenwich | 289,000 | 47.35 | Royal Observatory, Cutty Sark | Greenwich Mean Time Clocks, Nautical Memorabilia, Local Crafts |
Hackney | 281,000 | 19.06 | Broadway Market, Victoria Park | Street Art Prints, Local Artisan Goods, Organic Coffee |
Hammersmith and Fulham | 185,000 | 16.40 | Hammersmith Apollo, Fulham Palace | Event Memorabilia, Thames River Prints, Local Artisan Goods |
Haringey | 271,000 | 29.59 | Alexandra Palace, Crouch End | Alexandra Palace Memorabilia, Local Music Records, Handcrafted Jewellery |
Harrow | 250,000 | 50.47 | Harrow School, Headstone Manor and Museum | Historic School Memorabilia, Local Crafts, Books on Local History |
Havering | 257,000 | 112.27 | Havering Museum, Upminster Windmill | Local History Books, Windmill Models, Handmade Crafts |
Hillingdon | 309,000 | 115.70 | Ruislip Lido, Battle of Britain Bunker | Battle of Britain Memorabilia, Handmade Soaps, Gardening Tools and Seeds |
Hounslow | 288,000 | 55.98 | Osterley Park and House, Hounslow Heath | Historic House Memorabilia, Local Art, Handmade Crafts |
Islington | 242,000 | 14.86 | The Almeida Theatre, Camden Passage | Theatre Programs, Antique Finds, Gourmet Food Items |
Kensington and Chelsea | 158,000 | 12.12 | The Victoria and Albert Museum, Kensington Palace | Museum Gifts, Luxury Accessories, Royal Memorabilia |
Kingston upon Thames | 179,000 | 37.25 | Kingston Market, Hampton Court Palace | Handmade Jewellery, Riverside Art Prints, Local Cheeses |
Lambeth | 326,000 | 26.8 | The London Eye, Southbank Centre, Brixton Market | London Eye Miniatures, Southbank Centre Merchandise, Local Art |
Lewisham | 303,000 | 35.15 | Horniman Museum and Gardens, Lewisham Market | Local Music Records, Art Prints |
Merton | 206,000 | 37.61 | Wimbledon, Morden Hall Park | Wimbledon Memorabilia, Local Pottery, Historic Maps |
Newham | 352,000 | 36.22 | Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, ExCeL London | Olympic Park Memorabilia, Cultural Artifacts, Handcrafted Goods |
Redbridge | 305,000 | 56.41 | Valentines Mansion & Gardens, Wanstead Park | Local Honey, Park-Themed Items, Handmade Crafts |
Richmond upon Thames | 198,000 | 57.41 | Richmond Park, Kew Gardens | Richmond Park Prints, Historic House Souvenirs, Handmade Jewellery |
Southwark | 318,000 | 28.85 | The Shard, Tate Modern, Borough Market | Shakespearean Memorabilia, Local Art Prints, Handmade Crafts |
Sutton | 206,000 | 43.85 | Nonsuch Park, Honeywood Museum | Local Honey, Handmade Crafts, Historic House Memorabilia |
Tower Hamlets | 324,000 | 19.77 | Tower of London, Brick Lane | East End Prints, Local Crafts, Historical Books |
Waltham Forest | 276,000 | 38.82 | William Morris Gallery, Walthamstow Market | Local Art Prints, Handmade Jewellery |
Wandsworth | 327,000 | 34.26 | Battersea Park, Wandsworth Common | Park-themed souvenirs, Local Art, Handmade Crafts |
Westminster | 250,000 | 21.47 | Buckingham Palace, The Houses of Parliament, West End Theatres | Royal and Political Memorabilia, Tourist Souvenirs, Theatre Programs |
In London, the distinction between Inner London and Outer London boroughs is based on historical, geographical, and administrative factors. Here's a breakdown:
Inner London consists of 12 boroughs that are centrally located and traditionally more urbanized, densely populated, and historically significant compared to Outer London. These boroughs tend to be closer to the heart of the city and include many of the iconic landmarks, cultural institutions, and business districts.
The 12 Inner London boroughs are:
Outer London includes 20 boroughs that generally surround Inner London. These areas are often more suburban, with lower population density, more green spaces, and residential areas. Outer London boroughs developed as London's population expanded outwards.
The 20 Outer London boroughs are:
The City of London is a distinct entity and is not classified as a London borough. It is a small area (about 1 square mile) at the centre of London, often referred to as the "Square Mile." It has its own unique governance structure, the City of London Corporation, which predates the formation of London’s boroughs. The City is primarily a financial district, known for its historic buildings, banks, and corporate offices.
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North London is known for its blend of urban sophistication and green spaces. Here’s a closer look at what each borough has to offer:
Barnet, one of the largest boroughs, is perfect for those who appreciate a mix of suburban tranquillity and historical intrigue.
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Camden is the cultural heart of North London, famous for its markets, music venues, and alternative culture.
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Enfield offers a charming blend of urban and rural experiences with its parks and historic buildings.
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Haringey offers a mix of historic charm and modern vibrancy, with beautiful parks and cultural hotspots.
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Islington is known for its lively arts scene, beautiful squares, and a variety of boutiques and restaurants.
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East London is known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and rapidly changing landscape. Here’s a closer look at what each borough has to offer:
Barking and Dagenham is an area with a rich industrial heritage and rapidly developing new communities.
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Hackney is a vibrant and diverse borough known for its creative arts scene and trendy atmosphere. The London Borough of Hackney is considered an inner-city borough located in the northeastern part of Central London. While Hackney is sometimes associated with North London due to its proximity to that area, it is officially classified as part of East London. However, Hackney is somewhat unique because it's located in a transitional area between North and East London.
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Havering is known for its suburban feel, historic sites, and expansive green spaces, making it a popular choice for families and those seeking a quieter life.
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Newham is a dynamic and diverse borough known for its regeneration projects and cultural diversity.
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Redbridge offers a mix of urban living and green spaces, and it is known for its parks and family-friendly environment.
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Tower Hamlets is known for its rich history, vibrant markets, and modern developments.
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Waltham Forest offers a vibrant mix of arts, culture, and green spaces.
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South East London Boroughs are known for their rich maritime history, diverse communities, and expansive green spaces, offering a blend of cultural heritage and suburban charm.
Bexley is known for its suburban charm and abundance of parks and green spaces, making it a favourite for families and nature lovers.
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Greenwich is world-famous for its maritime history and the prime meridian. Greenwich is in South East London. It is part of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, which lies on the south bank of the River Thames. Greenwich is well-known for its maritime history, the Greenwich Meridian (Prime Meridian), and the Royal Observatory. The area is distinctively part of South East London, both geographically and culturally.
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Lewisham is known for its strong community spirit and vibrant arts scene.
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Southwark is a historic and vibrant borough, home to cultural landmarks and a lively riverside.
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South West London Boroughs are celebrated for their picturesque riverside views, historic landmarks, and affluent, leafy neighbourhoods.
Bromley is one of the largest London boroughs, offering a mix of rural and urban experiences with its vibrant town centre and extensive countryside.
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Croydon is known for its bustling commercial centre, cultural diversity, and historic sites.
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Kingston upon Thames is known for its historic market town atmosphere and beautiful riverside setting.
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Lambeth is known for its cultural institutions, riverside views, and diverse communities. It offers a mix of historic sites and modern developments.
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Merton offers a blend of urban and suburban living with its historic sites, green spaces, and bustling town centres.
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Richmond upon Thames is known for its beautiful riverside views, historic sites, and expansive parks.
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Sutton is known for its green spaces, family-friendly atmosphere, and excellent schools.
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Wandsworth is known for its extensive green spaces, vibrant riverside developments, and a strong sense of community.
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West London is renowned for its mix of affluent neighbourhoods, cultural landmarks, and green spaces. Here’s a closer look at what each borough has to offer:
Brent is a diverse borough known for its vibrant communities and iconic landmarks.
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Ealing is known for its lush parks, historic buildings, and a strong sense of community.
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Hammersmith and Fulham is a dynamic borough with a mix of entertainment, shopping, and historic sites.
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Harrow combines suburban comfort with rich history and cultural diversity.
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Hillingdon is the second-largest of the London boroughs, known for its green spaces and historic sites.
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Hounslow is a diverse borough with a rich cultural heritage and extensive green spaces.
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Central London is the bustling heart of the city, known for its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and vibrant cultural scene. Here’s a closer look at what each central borough has to offer:
Kensington and Chelsea is an affluent borough known for its elegant streets, world-class museums, and luxury shopping.
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Westminster is the political and cultural heart of London, home to iconic landmarks and institutions.
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Each of London’s 32 boroughs offers a unique slice of the city’s diverse tapestry. Whether you’re exploring historic landmarks, vibrant markets, or peaceful parks, there’s a perfect souvenir waiting to capture your memories.
We hope this detailed overview helped you understand the unique charm and attractions of each of London’s 32 boroughs, making it easier to pick the perfect souvenirs to remember your visit. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Londoner, this guide will offer fresh insights and delightful discoveries, helping you discover the best that London has to offer.