London had always been a cosmopolitan city, but in the 19th century it was enriched by new immigrant communities and by new fashions in clothing, music, shopping and theatre. Many of the hospitals, banks and institutions that exist in London today were founded at this time.
A new gallery is being developed at the Museum of London to display the highs - and lows - of city life during this period. Due to open 2009.
The Museum in Docklands is also developing a new gallery; London, sugar and slavery, due to open October 2007.
Please note: The 18th Century and World City galleries at the Museum of London, and The Coming of the Docks gallery at the Museum in Docklands are now closed for redevelopment.