London stories

This innovative 18th-century actor had an influence on all aspects of British theatre

Featuring marathon misfortune, contentious judging and a brand new Olympic sport

Ruling for 63 years, Victoria witnessed rapid changes in British society, culture and industry

Marking 25 years as monarch in 1977, the queen’s jubilee was met with celebration and discontent

Where rooftop executions became a violent Southwark spectacle

Londoners have skated on the city’s frozen lakes and ponds for centuries

For dancing, drinking, glamour and debauchery, there was nothing quite like the pleasure garden

Discover the exciting new entertainment on offer to Londoners in the 1700s and 1800s

A day of aggression in the battle for women’s right to vote

The changing face of law and order

The Savile Row-based designer had a long career spanning luxurious couture and casual menswear

Did you know ice rinks were invented in London? And the earliest version was made from pig fat?

Pankurst’s leadership of the militant votes-for-women campaign made her a feminist hero

The explosive plan that gave us Bonfire Night

Held in the struggling post-war years, these frugal Games were celebrated as a harmonious success

Modern nursing has a lot to thank this 19th-century trailblazer for

A vital part of London life since the Romans

Camp out, help others, work for world peace: Hargrave’s youth movement aimed for a better society