Mythical Beasts of London: A Cryptozoological Guide

London’s rich history intertwines with a fascinating array of mythical creatures. Dragons, symbols of the City since 1609, guard its boundaries, each with a unique (self-assigned) name. The Enfield, a chimerical beast, unexpectedly represents the London Borough of Enfield. Fairies, gnomes, and elves, while less tangible, are represented by the Elfin Oak in Kensington Gardens. Giants Gog and Magog, protectors of the City, are paraded during the Lord Mayor’s Show, their origins tracing back to ancient texts. Griffins, though less prevalent than dragons, have a presence at Chiswick’s Griffin Brewery. Mermaids, while not as prominent as in Copenhagen, appear on a weather vane and in a historical theatre’s name. Minotaurs, fittingly, guard the labyrinthine Barbican complex. Pegasi, the winged horses, symbolize the Inner Temple, their presence seen in various locations. Phoenixes, symbols of rebirth, are found in place names and sculptures, particularly at St. Paul’s Cathedral, a testament to its post-fire reconstruction. Finally, unicorns, part of the Royal Coat of Arms, represent Scotland’s heritage in London.

(Source: https://londonist.com/london/history/the-mythical-creatures-of-london)