5 Surprising Facts About London You Probably Didn’t Know

London is one of those cities that always has another secret waiting to be uncovered. You’ve seen the landmarks and walked the busy streets, but its history runs deeper than you might imagine. From hidden tunnels to forgotten rivers, here are five surprising facts about London that even many locals don’t know.

1. Big Ben isn’t the tower, it’s the bell inside

One of London’s most famous icons is actually a case of mistaken identity. Big Ben isn’t the tower itself; it’s the 13-ton bell housed inside the Elizabeth Tower at the north end of the Palace of Westminster. The bell’s deep chime has been ringing across the city since 1859.

2. Over 300 languages are spoken in London

London is the most linguistically diverse city in the world. More than 300 languages are spoken daily, from Bengali to Yoruba, making every neighborhood feel like a world of its own.

3. There’s an underground railway just for mail

Beneath the busy streets lies the Mail Rail, a hidden postal train system that once moved mail across the city entirely underground. Today, parts of it can be visited at the Postal Museum, a reminder of London’s incredible hidden infrastructure.

4. More than 20 hidden rivers flow beneath London

The Thames isn’t the city’s only river. Dozens of smaller rivers still flow underground, long covered over as London expanded. Some, like the River Fleet, can still be heard running through tunnels and sewers if you know where to listen.

5. You’re never far from a pub

It might sound like a myth, but with nearly 4,000 pubs across the city, it’s almost true. Whether you’re in Camden, Soho, or Greenwich, there’s always a cozy spot nearby for a pint and a story.

Explore London your way

London isn’t just a city; it’s a living museum of culture, history, and hidden wonders. From ancient secrets to local favorites, every corner invites you to explore something new.

Discover your version of London with Explorely, the travel app made for curious explorers.