A tour of city’s livery companies

St Paul from the city

The map of livery companies

The city is where London begins. Since the establishment of Londinium by Rome in AD 43, London has continued to grow. The city evolved into a commercial centre with its own mayor and governance. Although it is only one square mile in size (AKA “Square Mile”), it has created 4% of the UK’s total economic value, with more than 20,000 businesses, and 615,000 workers. The city is known for its financial services, However, this walk has ignored all the prominent financial institutions and focuses on the less known Livery companies, which also have rich heritage and played important roles. As you explore the streets of the city, you will discover fractional door number (not the 9¾  platform in Harry Potter, this is real!), trades that disappeared, and the cruelty of the war.

What are the livery companies

A trade association in the City of London, especially one with ancient origins. They regulate competition, maintain high standards and help members to sell their goods and services in the Square Mile.

Their history

Some guilds can trace their origins back to the 12th century, with the earliest charter still in existence being granted to the Weaver’s Company in 1155. As the guilds became more established, many set up their headquarters in large houses or Halls, these became venues for settling trade or domestic disputes. The peak period for the formation of guilds was the 14^th century. After the 17^th century, they started to decline and can’t compete with cheaper traders outside the city. Today there’re more than 100 liveries, mostly are charity supporting trade, education and communities. Each year liverymen elect the Sheriffs of the City of London, endorse the election of the Lord Mayor.

The worship company of Fishmongers is one of the “Great 12”. It’s number 4 on the precedence. It was founded in 1272. At that time, fishermen were trading at the Old Billingsgate Fish Market near London Bridge. With authorised power from the King, a fraternity of fishmongers set the market standard to ensure the quality and the dietary safety. Later on, they becomes the worship company of fishmongers. In 1434, the company bought a property near London Bridge as their hall and they have stay there ever since. The existing hall was built in 1834 as a fine example of the Greek Revival building.