In the heart of the City of London, urbanest City stands as a testament to the blend of modern student living and rich historical heritage. Central to this unique building is the City Wall at Vine Street, a museum space integrated into the development, showcasing a significant segment of London’s ancient Roman wall.

The Roman Wall

Constructed between AD 190 and 230, the Roman wall once encircled Londinium, serving as a formidable defence for the city. Over centuries, urban expansion concealed much of this structure, with sections becoming hidden behind newer buildings or submerged beneath the city’s evolving landscape. The Vine Street segment remained largely inaccessible, tucked away in the basement of an office building, until urbanest embarked on a mission to bring this historical section to light.

A Collaborative Preservation Effort

In 2016, urbanest acquired the Vine Street site with a vision to create a space where contemporary student accommodation coexists with London’s rich past. Collaborating closely with the City of London Corporation, Historic England, and the Museum of London, urbanest meticulously planned the preservation and public exhibition of the Roman wall. During construction in 2018, the wall was safeguarded by a bespoke enclosure, ensuring its protection during construction. Today, the wall stands proudly within the museum space, supported by steel props and jacks, symbolising a successful blend of preservation and modern engineering.

The City Wall at Vine Street Museum

Opened to the public in May 2023, the City Wall at Vine Street offers visitors a journey through 2,000 years of London’s history. Beyond the impressive City Wall, the museum showcases a curated collection of artifacts unearthed from the site and its surroundings. Highlights include a Roman tile bearing a cat’s paw print, ancient coins, and animal bones, each narrating tales of the city’s vibrant past. The museum’s design thoughtfully preserves the wall’s historical integrity, allowing visitors to observe features from various eras, including medieval modifications and 20th-century reinforcements.

A Space for Community and Learning

urbanest’s commitment to community engagement is evident in the museum’s offerings. The space is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm, providing free entry to all visitors. A café invites guests to relax and reflect on the historical surroundings. The museum offers tailored experiences for educational groups and tours.

The integration of the City Wall at Vine Street within the urbanest City development exemplifies a visionary approach to urban planning. By preserving and celebrating the city’s ancient heritage alongside state-of-the-art accommodations, urbanest offers residents and visitors a unique opportunity to connect with London’s past while experiencing its dynamic present.

For more information or to plan your visit, please see the official website.