Why London Has a Mayor… But Also a Lord Mayor?
Understanding the curious case of London's two powerful figures
Ever find yourself asking: Why does London have both a Mayor and a Lord Mayor? You're not alone. It’s one of those confusing quirks of British tradition that even locals sometimes mix up.
But once you understand the history and roles of these two very different positions, it all starts to make sense. One represents modern political leadership. The other? A 1,000-year-old ceremonial figure rooted in medieval power.
Let’s walk through it—from the cobbled lanes of the City of London to the grand stages of City Hall—so next time someone brings it up, you can be the London expert in the room.
First of All: The City of London vs Greater London
To understand the Mayor vs Lord Mayor debate, we need to talk geography.
Yes, London is a city. But it's also two cities. Confusing, right?
Greater London: The London you know—Tower Bridge, Big Ben, Camden, Notting Hill, etc. It covers 32 boroughs plus the City of London and has a population of nearly 9 million.
The City of London: Often called the “Square Mile”, this is the original, historic core of London. It has its own police force, governance, and even... a dragon on its coat of arms. Population? About 9,000 residents—but over 500,000 workers commute here daily for finance, law, and business.
So, with that in mind…
Who Is the Mayor of London?
This is the one most people mean when they say “Mayor of London.”
Role:
The Mayor of London is the elected leader of Greater London, created in the year 2000. The post was introduced to provide city-wide governance across all boroughs, especially to tackle things like transportation, housing, environment, and the economy.
Responsibilities:
Managing Transport for London (TfL) (yes, the Tube, buses, and bikes!)
Overseeing the Metropolitan Police
Planning affordable housing
Reducing emissions
Supporting business and tourism
Notable Mayors:
Ken Livingstone – the first-ever Mayor (2000–2008)
Boris Johnson – yes, that Boris (2008–2016)
Sadiq Khan – the current Mayor since 2016
Fun Fact:
The Mayor is elected by every Londoner in Greater London. The Mayor even has a right-hand team called the London Assembly, who hold the office to account.
📍Location: City Hall (was on the South Bank, now in the Royal Docks)
Who Is the Lord Mayor of London?
Now here’s where it gets historical.
The Lord Mayor of London is the ceremonial head of the City of London. The post dates back to 1189, making it over 800 years old—older than most countries!
Role:
Represents and promotes the City of London Corporation (a unique local authority governing the Square Mile)
Acts as an ambassador for the UK’s financial and professional services
Hosts global business leaders and international diplomacy events
Responsibilities:
Ceremonial duties at state events, banquets, and royal ceremonies
Travels overseas to promote London’s financial sector
Oversees historic traditions like the Lord Mayor’s Show
How is the Lord Mayor Chosen?
Unlike the Mayor of London, the Lord Mayor is not elected by the public. Instead:
Chosen by liverymen from 110 ancient trade guilds (known as livery companies)
Must be an alderman of the City and have previously served as Sheriff of London
Serves a one-year term
📍Location: Mansion House, a grand 18th-century residence in the City
The Lord Mayor’s Show
One of the oldest annual civic processions in the world.
Since 1215, every newly appointed Lord Mayor has traveled by river and road to swear allegiance to the Crown. The show is filled with horses, carriages, military regiments, floats, and even giant inflatables.
Happens every November, and yes—it’s totally open to the public.
Wait... Why Keep the Lord Mayor at All?
It’s a fair question.
The Lord Mayor doesn’t make transport or housing decisions. But their role is vital in a different way:
Maintaining international investment
Promoting London as a financial hub
Preserving 800+ years of civic tradition
Plus, the City of London is a global economic powerhouse. In fact, it generates over £50 billion annually in tax revenue—so maintaining its unique governance structure is seen as beneficial.
Quick Recap
So let’s break it down one last time:
The Mayor of London is the elected leader responsible for all of Greater London, which includes 32 boroughs and the City of London. This role was created in 2000, and the Mayor is chosen directly by Londoners every four years. Their job is all about transport, housing, environment, and city-wide policies. They work out of City Hall, currently based in the Royal Docks, and they have real political power.
Meanwhile, the Lord Mayor of London is a much older role—dating all the way back to 1189. But their jurisdiction is tiny: just the City of London, often called the Square Mile. The Lord Mayor isn’t elected by the public but chosen each year by liverymen and aldermen—members of historic trade guilds. Their job is mostly ceremonial, promoting finance, business diplomacy, and centuries-old traditions. They live and work out of the grand Mansion House.
In short:
One Mayor (Sadiq Khan) handles modern governance for all of London.
One Lord Mayor (currently a rotating, yearly position) handles tradition and business in the ancient City of London.
They’re both “Mayors,” but their jobs, audiences, and power couldn’t be more different.
So… Who’s More Powerful?
In terms of political and public power? The Mayor of London.
They make real decisions that affect all 9 million of us.
But in terms of ceremonial prestige and historic influence?
The Lord Mayor of London holds a globally respected position in finance and tradition.
So, they’re both important—but in very different ways.
Final Thoughts: Two Mayors, One Iconic City
Having two “mayors” may seem excessive, but in London’s case, it’s all part of the charm.
It’s a city where past and present coexist.
Where the 21st century meets the 12th century—and they both still have jobs.
So next time you hear “Mayor of London,” ask: Which one?
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