Long Lane, London facts for kids
Long Lane is a name given to several streets in London, England. It's a common street name, often used for roads that were once important paths or boundaries. In London, two notable streets share this name: one in the City of London and another in Southwark.
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What is Long Lane?
Long Lane usually refers to a street that has existed for a long time. These streets often have interesting histories. They might have been old paths connecting different parts of a town or city. Sometimes, they were even country lanes before the city grew around them.
Long Lane in the City of London
This Long Lane is located in the historic City of London. It's a shorter street, known for its connection to the famous Smithfield Market. For centuries, Smithfield has been a major market, especially for meat. Long Lane would have been busy with traders and people visiting the market.
History of Long Lane, City of London
In the past, this area was very important for trade. Long Lane was close to the city walls and gates. This made it a key route for goods coming into London. Over the years, the street has seen many changes, but it remains part of the bustling market district.
Long Lane in Southwark
Another important street named Long Lane is found in Southwark. Southwark is a borough located south of the River Thames. This Long Lane is much longer than the one in the City of London. It stretches through a busy part of Southwark.
Exploring Long Lane, Southwark
Long Lane in Southwark has a rich history. It runs through areas that were once home to many industries. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Southwark was known for its tanneries and other workshops. Long Lane would have been a central part of daily life for the people working and living there. Today, it's a mix of residential buildings and businesses.
Why are there two Long Lanes?
It's common for cities, especially old ones like London, to have multiple streets with the same name. This often happens because different areas developed independently. A "long lane" was a simple, descriptive name for a long road. Over time, as London grew, these separate "Long Lanes" became part of the larger city, keeping their original names.
