Walbrook – the Heart of the City

The Ward of Walbrook is one of the 25 Wards that make up the City of London, otherwise known as the  The City or Square Mile

Walbrook Ward is the most central of the Wards and lies at the very heart of the City. It encompasses Mansion House, the home of the Lord Mayor of London, St Stephen Walbrook, the Bank of England, 125 Old Broad Street sometimes known as The Old Stock Exchange Tower, Grocers’ Hall, the City of London Magistrates Court, the London Stone, The Ned Hotel, the new Walbrook Building and Bank Underground Station.

The 25 Wards that make up the City of London form the local authority area managed and controlled by the City of London Corporation.

History of Walbrook Ward

Walbrook Ward is named after the River Walbrook, now subterranean that flows north to south through the City of London.  Walbrook the street follows the course of that river.

The brook played a very important role in the Roman London. The stream started in what is now Finsbury and flowed through the centre of the walled city, bringing a supply of fresh water whilst carrying waste away to the River Thames.

During Roman times The River Walbrook was also used for transport, with the limit of navigation some 200m from the Thames.

Further details about the Ward of Walbrook can be found here.

Walbrook Ward Club

The Walbrook Ward Club was founded on 4 December 1809 at the Bay Tree Tavern in St Swithin’s Lane.

It is one of the oldest ward clubs in the City, its purpose being to promote friendly and neighbourly interchange.  At the beginning of the 19th century, many people lived and worked in the centre of the City.  Numerous businesses, such as timber and coffee merchants and importers, who unloaded their goods on the banks of the Thames, had premises within the Ward.

Founding Purpose

The Club, from the outset, served as a connecting link to bind the residents together.  It watched over the interests of the Ward, and fostered knowledge of the history, heritage and traditions of the City, and in particular of the Ward.  It provided a forum for inhabitants to discuss local conditions, to complain or protest to the Alderman and Common Councilmen of the Ward.  Equally, it organised convivial social gatherings, which continue to this day.

For Further Information

Visit the Walbrook Ward Club website

To join or contact the Walbrook Ward Club go to: Contact Us | Walbrook Ward Club