21 Best Nicknames for London and England That People Actually Use
It’s no surprise that the land of Cockney rhyming slang has a long list of London nicknames. The list of nicknames for England is just as long! From historically rooted monikers to modern-day epithets, England has accumulated a fascinating collection of nicknames.
But look at any list of nicknames for London and you’ll see ones you’ve barely heard of, let alone heard used in everyday life.
In this list, we’ll look at all the London nicknames of the past 2,000 years that people actually still use today.
Nicknames for London
1. The Big Smoke
Originating in the 19th century, the nickname “The Big Smoke” emerged due to the city’s notorious smog and pollution caused by industrialization. The thick fog that frequently blanketed London resulted in an atmospheric haze, earning it this memorable moniker (p.s. it still sometimes obstructs London viewpoints today).
This is a very common London nickname that you’ll still hear often today, both in movies, TV, and in everyday conversation.
2. LDN
This nickname of London is simple, but used pretty often. You’ll see this abbreviation on souvenir t-shirts and coffee mugs, and it’s even used in Twitter handles by major corporations based in London.
Its popularity grew with Lily Allen’s song “LDN,” and it’s still widely used today in written form (not so much in conversation, obviously).
3. The Square Mile
“The Square Mile” refers to the City of London, an area measuring approximately one square mile in the heart of the metropolis. As the historic core of the city, it is the financial district and houses the Bank of England, making it the epicenter of London’s economic power.
Though you’ll mostly hear this London nickname referencing only the City of London, it’s one of those London nicknames that’s also used to refer to the city as a whole.
4. The Old Smoke
Another reference to London’s infamous fog, “The Old Smoke” pays homage to the city’s past as a hub of coal-burning industries during the Industrial Revolution. The smoke emitted from chimneys pervaded the city, creating a visual and olfactory hallmark of London.
The “old” portion simply comes from the fact that London is, in fact, really old. When people say “the old smoke” instead of “the big smoke,” they’re usually referring to London in a less flattering light.
5. The Capital
London nicknames that are super obvious? The Capital. This nickname for London is widely used all the time. You’ll hear everyone from newscasters to travelers using “the Capital” to refer to London everyday.
This nickname underscores London’s role as the cultural, economic, and political epicenter of the United Kingdom.
6. The Great Wen
London nicknames with super gross origins? This is it. A “wen” was a pimple or a boil, so naturally this London nickname began as satirical in nature.
“The Great Wen” was coined by writer William Cobbett in the early 19th century. He used it to mock the city’s rapid expansion and perceived ugliness.
Over time, however, the term has lost its negative connotations and become a more endearing nickname for the city. But still, this London nickname is a pretty gross analogy, and it’s used today by political commentators and critics of London.
7. The City of Dreams
The City of Dreams” reflects London’s allure as a place of opportunity, where individuals from around the globe come to pursue their ambitions. This nickname embodies the city’s vibrant and diverse atmosphere, which inspires and captivates dreamers and go-getters alike.
Today it’s only really used when critiquing London, and it’s not used in the idealistic sense.
8. Cockney Town
Derived from the term “Cokeney,” which referred to the medieval residents of London’s East End, “Cockney Town” nickname is synonymous with the city’s traditional working-class culture.
Today, it represents the unique charm, dialect, and distinct identity associated with East Londoners. If you say you’re “going to cockney town,” you might mean you’re heading East to Poplar or Whitechapel.
9. The Global Village
This is definitely the most boring nickname for London that is still used today in the news cycle. With a melting pot of cultures and nationalities, London earned the moniker “The Global Village” during the industrial revolution.
This nickname exemplifies the city’s international character, where people from all corners of the world coexist, contributing to its rich diversity and cosmopolitan vibe.
But really, they couldn’t come up with something better than “the global village?” to describe the glorious London melting pot?
10. The City of Spires
“The City of Spires” showcases London’s stunning architectural heritage, specifically its abundance of grand and historically significant church spires. From the iconic St. Paul’s Cathedral to Westminster Abbey, these majestic structures contribute to the city’s distinctive skyline.
Today you’ll mostly hear it used by historians and history buffs.
11. Londinium
Today this is just a nickname for London, but during the Roman occupation of London, it was just London’s actual name.
This ancient name pays homage to the city’s origins, when it was founded as a Roman settlement in AD 43. You’ll hear “Londinium” when people are referencing the ancient characteristics of the capital.
Nicknames of England 🏴
There are just as many nicknames for England as there are for London, if not more. Let’s look at some of the nicknames for Britain that are still used today.
1. Blighty or Old Blighty
“Blighty” is an affectionate term that originated during the British colonial era. Derived from the Hindi word “bilayati,” meaning “foreign,” it was used by British soldiers stationed in India to refer to their homeland.
Over time, it evolved into a sentimental nickname for England, evoking feelings of homesickness and nostalgia. People still commonly use “Old Blighty” to refer to their English homeland. It’s a term of endearment.
2. Albion
“Albion” is an ancient and poetic nickname for England. With origins dating back to Roman times, the term is derived from the Latin word “Albus,” meaning “white.” It refers to the chalk cliffs along the English coastline and embodies the image of a pristine and beautiful land.
Today you’ll mostly hear it when critiquing England and the UK in a political and social sense.
3. The Land of Hope and Glory
“The Land of Hope and Glory” captures the patriotic spirit associated with England. Derived from the famous patriotic song of the same name, it evokes a sense of national pride, highlighting the country’s rich history, cultural heritage, and the indomitable spirit of its people. But today, “The Land of Hope and Glory” is usually used in jest or in satire.
As an American, I have to say that this sounds an awful lot like something the crazy patriotic US citizens would use…
4. Merry Old England
“Merry Old England” is a whimsical and nostalgic nickname that conjures images of quaint countryside villages, traditional festivities, and charming historical landmarks. This endearing label reflects the enduring perception of England as a place of joy, mirth, and timeless traditions.
Today it’s used in a more satirical way, as England is not quite as merry as it once was before the Industrial Revolution.
5. Perfidious Albion
“Perfidious” means duplicitous or untrustworthy.
In contrast to the positive nicknames, “Perfidious Albion” is a term used primarily by critics to imply England’s alleged treachery or duplicity in international affairs.
Although historically used with negative undertones, it has become more tongue-in-cheek and is occasionally used humorously.
6. The Sceptred Isle
“The Sceptred Isle” is a poetic epithet coined by William Shakespeare in his play “Richard II.” It refers to England’s proud and long-standing tradition of monarchy, symbolizing the crown and the royal authority that has shaped the nation’s history. Today, it’s used tongue-in-cheek.
7. John Bull’s Land
John Bull is a personification of England as a stout, patriotic, and quintessentially English figure.
This nickname emerged in 18th century newspapers and pamphlets, often represented in cartoons and drawings, and represents the archetypal Englishman, symbolizing the country’s character and values.
Think of it as England’s “Uncle Sam,”
8. Land of Shakespeare
This nickname for England is quite obvious. As the birthplace of the legendary playwright William Shakespeare, England is often referred to as the “Land of Shakespeare.”
This nickname celebrates the country’s rich literary heritage and honors the Bard’s enduring influence on English language and culture.
9. The Rose of England
“The Rose of England” was a ballad about Henry VII claiming the throne from Richard III. The title is a more poetic and romantic nickname for Britain than others, alluding to the national flower of England: the rose.
It represents beauty, love, and national pride, serving as a vivid symbol of the country’s historical significance and natural splendor. You’ll also hear a beautiful English woman referred to as an “English Rose.”
10. The Land of Fair Play
“The Land of Fair Play” characterizes England as a nation known for its adherence to principles of fairness, justice, and sportsmanship. With a rich tradition in sports like football, cricket, and rugby, this nickname highlights the country’s passion for fair competition and respect for the rules of the game.
Today it’s used tongue-in-cheek when things are not being played fair in England.
What’s your favorite London nickname or nickname for England?
More on Visiting London:
Itinerary for 3 Epic Days in London: An Insider’s Guide
How to Get Cheap Train Tickets to and From London
Where to Stay your First time in London
