Ludgate Hill

Overview

Ludgate Hill is an historic street running up from Fleet Street to St Paul’s Cathedral in the City of London. It is one of three ancient hills in London and is one of the most recognisable places in the city.

Ludgate Hill is home to a captivating mixture of historic charm and modern amenities. Alongside its beautiful architecture, the street is lined with office buildings, shops, and restaurants. The road was once part of the ceremonial approach to St Paul’s Cathedral for royal visits, civic parades, and religious processions.

The street is free to explore, and it’s a good spot to add to a self-guided walking tour of the area around St Paul’s Cathedral in addition to spots like the Millennium Bridge, Paternoster Square, and the St Lawrence & Mary Magdalene Drinking Fountain. From the bottom, you’ll get impressive views of the magnificent St Paul’s Cathedral, making it a good place to take photos, too.

What is Ludgate Hill famous for?

Ludgate Hill is famous for having one of the most iconic views in London. It’s actually legally protected by the London View Management Framework.

In the past, from the 1500s to the mid-1900s, it was famous for printing, news, and journalism. The nearby Fleet Street continued this up until the 1990s, when most of the major newspapers had left.

What is the history of Ludgate Hill?

Ludgate Hill’s origins can be traced all the way back to Roman times, when it was part of the Roman road to the west in the city of Londinium, which is now Cheapside.

Why is it called Ludgate Hill?

Ludgate Hill is named after the Lud Gate, one of the gates in the London city walls. In the Middle Ages and Tudor periods, the gate was believed to have been built by the mythical King Lud, who was said to have been the king of Britain in the 1st century BC.

However, historians now know that the Romans first built the gate, and they have a few different theories as to how it got its name, including:

Named after the legendary King Lud in medieval times
The name is derived from the Saxon words for ‘swing gate’
Due to its proximity to the river Fleet, the name comes from ‘flood gate’

In 1760, Lud Gate was demolished, along with other London gates, to help with the flow of traffic as the city got busier.

Can I get something to eat at Ludgate Hill?

Yes, there are plenty of options for grabbing a bite to eat or a drink at Ludgate Hill. From chain restaurants like Wagamama, Franco Manca, and Cote, to independent wine bars, fine dining spots, and cosy coffee houses, there’s something for everyone here.

If you can’t find something to take your fancy on this road, then nearby Ludgate Circus offers a plethora of restaurants, too.

Things to see and do near Ludgate Hill

The Old Bailey

The Old Bailey is the Central Criminal Court of England and Wales, which handles the most serious criminal cases in the country. The exterior of the Old Bailey, featuring the Lady Justice statue, is a renowned London landmark.

The Old Bailey sometimes offers guided tours, and the public can also attend some of the trials to spectate – although these are often not quite as exciting as those you see on the television!

St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul’s Cathedral is a must-visit when you’re staying at YHA London St Paul’s – and in fact, on any trip to London! You can admire the stunning exterior architecture of the cathedral and explore the churchyard for free.

There is a fee to go inside to visit the Dome Galleries, discover the crypt, and explore the nave.

Paternoster Square

In addition to serving as a hub of shops, offices, and restaurants, Paternoster Square is also home to several interesting artworks, including large bronze sculptures and a unique sundial. There are also often temporary sculptures here, so it’s different each time you visit.

Postman’s Park

Pop into Postman’s Park for a few moments of peace away from the hustle and bustle of the City of London. Here, you’ll find a memorial honouring ordinary people who have given up their lives to save others.

Millennium Bridge

Fondly nicknamed ‘wobbly bridge’ by Londoners, the Millennium Bridge gives you some fantastic views over the river Thames and some of London’s best attractions. Remember to look down as you cross, and you just might see some chewing gum art!

How to get to Ludgate Hill from YHA London St Paul’s

Ludgate Hill is just a stone’s throw from YHA London St Paul’s at just 0.1 miles (0.2 kilometres) away. Because of this proximity, the best way to get there is by walking, which should take about three minutes.

Ludgate Hill has a City Thameslink station, if you’re travelling from elsewhere in London.