Why the heart of British power is a city within a city

Countries & Cities · Published 29 September 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: The City of Westminster is not just a London borough; it is a historic city that has held its status since 1540. While it was once a separate settlement, it grew to become the seat of royal authority and government, eventually merging into the vast urban sprawl of modern London.

The origins of Westminster pre-date the Norman Conquest, with King Edward the Confessor establishing an abbey and a palace between the 11th century and the river. This strategic decision fixed the seat of government at Westminster, drawing influence away from the old, walled City of London. By 1540, the area was formally declared a city following the elevation of Westminster Abbey to a cathedral, a status it retained even after the diocese was abolished in 1550.

For centuries, Westminster remained geographically distinct from London, separated by open fields until the 16th century. As the urban area expanded, it absorbed surrounding villages like Marylebone and Kensington. Local governance remained fragmented for years, with various parish vestries and district boards managing the area until the Metropolitan Borough of Westminster was created in 1900. This entity was granted city status by royal charter just before its official inception.

The modern borough was established in 1965 through the London Government Act, merging the former metropolitan boroughs of Westminster, Paddington, and St Marylebone. Today, it serves as the administrative core of the United Kingdom, housing the Houses of Parliament, 10 Downing Street, and the West End. Despite being part of Greater London, it maintains its unique city status and is led by a lord mayor, a title granted in 1966. Charing Cross, located within the borough, remains the official point from which all distances from London are measured.

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