The Traveling Taylors

If you’ve visited London or plan to, chances are you’ve seen multiple flags flying—but which one is actually the London flag? And how is it different from the Union Jack or England’s flag? On our last visit, we noticed how easy it is to confuse them, so we did a little digging. Here’s a simple breakdown of the London flag vs the Union Jack and what each one actually represents.

London Flag vs Union Jack: What’s the Difference?

1. The Union Jack = The UK Flag

The Union Jack is the official flag of the United Kingdom. It combines elements from the flags of England, Scotland, and (historically) Ireland. You’ll see it on government buildings, embassies, and during royal events.

Design: Blue field with a red and white layered cross pattern. No sword, no specific city reference.

2. The London Flag = The City of London’s Symbol

This is the flag of the City of London, the historic one-square-mile district that is the financial and ceremonial heart of the capital.

Design: A red St. George’s Cross on a white field with a red sword in the top-left corner. The sword represents Saint Paul, the City’s patron saint.

Exploring new places often means taking lots of photos and videos, which is why many travelers bring a smart face-tracking phone tripod like this one to record hands-free while walking around London.

3. England Has Its Own Flag Too

Don’t confuse the Union Jack with the flag of England, which is a simple red cross (St. George’s Cross) on a white background—no sword. It’s used during sports events, St. George’s Day, and national celebrations.

4. Where You’ll See Each Flag in London

• Union Jack: Parliament, Buckingham Palace, national holidays
• England Flag: Sports matches, local events, St. George’s Day
• London Flag: Guildhall, City of London buildings, Lord Mayor ceremonies

5. Why the Sword Matters on the London Flag

That sword in the canton (upper corner) is what makes the London flag unique. It honors Saint Paul, who was beheaded by sword and remains the City’s spiritual symbol.

6. Greater London Doesn’t Have a Single Flag

The broader London metropolis (32 boroughs + the City) doesn’t have one unified flag. So when you see the term “London flag,” it usually refers to the City of London’s flag, not the entire capital.

7. Flag Spotting Tips in the City

• City of London Police stations often fly the London flag
• Look above Guildhall or during a Lord Mayor’s Parade
• Most national buildings will fly the Union Jack by default

Planning on visiting London soon? Long sightseeing days can quickly drain your phone battery, so carrying a portable power bank like this one helps ensure your phone stays charged for maps, photos, and travel apps.

Final Flagpole: Know Your Flags in London

Understanding the difference between the London flag, the Union Jack, and England’s flag makes your trip feel a little richer. It’s a small detail that connects you to the deep layers of British identity and tradition.