This is the earliest extant map of the British capital, created in Cologne by Georg Braun and Franz Hogenberg in 1575, when William Shakespeare was 11 years old. It was intended as an armchair traveler’s companion, to both provide instruction and “uplift the spirit”; in common with the times, objective accuracy was not a concern.
This is one of only three examples produced by Thomas Porter in 1655 (the other two are housed at the British Library and the Society of Antiquaries). To the upper left is a long title, set within an elaborate cartouche, helpfully stating that the map “is a ready helpe or Guide to direct Countrey-men and Strangers to finde the nearest way from one place to another”. Interestingly, some of the street names also helped people to find their way safely around the city. Modern-day Bow Street, for example, which is located in the heart of London’s theatreland, is on this map called “Theeving Lane”, to warn of the danger of pickpockets.
Royal London
This map, created by the Hugenot John Rocque in 1746, was the first large-scale survey of the city. Unlike the maps that came before, it was not just a pictorial map. Instead, it portrayed the buildings in correct proportion to each other, marking a shift towards objective, scientific mapping. Those with sharp eyes might be able to make out a fleet of boats drawn on the Thames, headed by the Royal Barge, showcasing patriotic fervor.
No Building Left Behind
This map, drawn by Richard Horwood in 1799, was the last attempt to depict every single building in London on a single map. It was funded by the Phoenix Fire Office insurance company, which wanted to ascertain the proximity of buildings to potential fire hazards after the Great Fire of London.
London Expands
Edward Langley and William Belche’s 1812 map features illustrated views of prominent London buildings. The map clearly indicates that the industrial revolution is in full swing, demonstrating London’s rapid urban expansion.
Bridging the Great Divide
This map, made by Christopher Greenwood in 1827, illustrates the major changes in the city with the construction of several new bridges across the Thames, which significantly impacted trade and development.
The Color of the City
This map, produced by George Cruchley in 1843, showcases London during early Victorian times, displaying notable landmarks like the newly-built Houses of Parliament and London Bridge, despite Kings Cross and Waterloo stations being absent.
Rich and Poor Alike
This map, drawn by Charles Booth in 1899, served as the first “poverty map” of London, illustrating areas of “chronic want” in black and wealthy districts in gold. The wealth distribution depicted resembles that of modern-day London.
London Underground
This 2012 map by Stephen Walters offers a whimsical view of “subterranean London”, indicating Tube lines, underground rivers, and even historical sites of unsolved crimes.
