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City of London Police Museum

Explore the rich history of London's oldest police force with tales of crime, courage, and iconic investigations in the heart of the City.

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The City of London Police Museum, located at 2 Aldermanbury, London, offers a compact yet compelling glimpse into the history of the UK's oldest police force. Though now permanently closed, it once showcased artifacts from Roman times through the 20th century, including uniforms, early communication devices, and exhibits on notorious crimes such as the Jack the Ripper case and the Siege of Sidney Street.

A brief summary to The City Of London Police Museum

  • 2 Aldermanbury, London, EC2V 7HH, GB
  • +442073321868
  • Duration: 1 to 2 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Though now closed, research nearby crime museums like Bow Street Police Museum for a similar experience.
  • The museum’s compact size means visits were typically under two hours, ideal for a focused historical outing.
  • Look out for exhibits on famous cases such as Jack the Ripper and the Siege of Sidney Street for gripping stories.
  • The museum was located within the Guildhall complex area, a historic site worth exploring alongside.
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For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

  • Restrooms
  • Information Boards
  • Visitor Center

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Take the London Underground to Bank station, served by Central, Northern, Waterloo & City, and DLR lines. From there, it is a 5-10 minute walk through central London streets. Tube fares range from £2.50 to £6 depending on time and ticket type.

  • Bus

    Several London bus routes stop near Aldermanbury, including routes 4, 11, and 15. Bus journeys from central London typically take 15-25 minutes. A standard fare is £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card.

  • Taxi or Rideshare

    A taxi or rideshare from central London locations like Trafalgar Square to Aldermanbury typically takes 10-20 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £10-£20.

The City Of London Police Museum location weather suitability

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  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about The City Of London Police Museum

Legacy of Policing in the Square Mile

The City of London Police Museum was dedicated to the history and heritage of the City of London Police, the force responsible for law enforcement within the Square Mile. Policing in this area dates back to Roman times, with Wood Street Police Station—the museum’s location—built on the site of a Roman fortress. Established formally in 1839, the City of London Police developed a unique identity distinct from the Metropolitan Police covering the rest of London.

Artifacts and Historical Highlights

The museum housed an intriguing collection of police memorabilia, including historic uniforms, early walkie-talkies, and London’s first police call box. It also displayed gold medals won by City policemen at the 1908 Olympics, underscoring the force’s proud traditions. Visitors could explore exhibits recounting the City’s darker past, featuring grisly tales of murders, robberies, and gun battles.

Famous Cases and Criminal History

Among the museum’s notable exhibits were collections related to infamous crimes such as the Jack the Ripper murders of 1888, with photographs of victims and details of the investigation. Another highlight was the coverage of the Houndsditch Murders of 1910, which precipitated the dramatic Siege of Sidney Street, a landmark event in British policing history.

Compact Space with Rich Stories

Though small in size, the museum offered a chronological walk-through of the City Police’s evolution, combining display cabinets, photographs, and interactive exhibits. This compact space provided a focused and engaging experience for visitors interested in law enforcement history and London’s criminal past.

Closure and Legacy

The museum is now permanently closed, but its legacy remains significant for those interested in the origins and development of policing in London’s financial district. It served as a valuable repository of artifacts and stories that highlighted the unique role of the City of London Police.

Context within London’s Museum Landscape

Situated near the Guildhall complex, the museum complemented other London crime museums such as the Bow Street Police Museum and the Metropolitan Police Museum. Each offers distinct perspectives on policing and justice in London’s history, with the City of London Police Museum focusing specifically on the Square Mile’s law enforcement heritage.

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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker

  • Historic
  • Scenic
  • Unique
  • Tranquil

For the architecture buff

  • Historic
  • Landmarks

For the view chaser and sunset hunter

  • Iconic Views

For the eco-conscious traveler

  • Public-Transport Accessible

For the kind of experience you’re after

  • Cultural Heritage
  • Myth & Legends
  • Day Trip

For how adventurous you want the journey to be

  • Easy Access

Location Audience

  • Family Friendly
  • Senior Friendly
  • Child Friendly
  • Teen Friendly
  • Wheelchair Access
  • Solo Friendly
  • Couple Friendly

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