For the first time in more than 800 years, the Lord Mayor’s Show became the Lady Mayor’s Show this weekend as Dame Susan Langley DBE took office as the City of London’s new Lord Mayor.
Dame Susan is only the third woman to hold the post since the role was created in 1215, but she is the first to be officially recognised with the title Lady Mayor.
The annual procession — one of Britain’s oldest public traditions — dates back to when King John granted the City the right to elect its own mayor. The new mayor was required to travel from the City to Westminster to swear loyalty to the Crown, a journey that has evolved into a grand civic celebration through the heart of London.
A centuries-old parade with a modern twist
Saturday’s parade featured hundreds of participants, including livery companies, charities, businesses, and members of the armed forces, who marched through the streets of the Square Mile.
The Lord Mayor’s Show has grown over centuries from a small river journey into a spectacular event celebrating both London’s history and diversity.
As Lady Mayor, Dame Susan will act as an international ambassador for the City of London, promoting British trade and investment around the world. She will also champion charitable causes and represent the Square Mile’s financial and business community throughout her year in office.
Two mayors, two different roles
The role of the Lady Mayor of London is distinct from that of the Mayor of London, a political post created in 2000. The Lady Mayor represents the historic and financial centre known as the Square Mile, while the Mayor of London — currently Sadiq Khan — oversees Greater London, managing transport, housing, policing, and other services with a budget of more than £20 billion.
Though their responsibilities differ, both positions reflect London’s standing as one of the world’s most influential and dynamic cities.
