London’s real centre lies some way to the south-east of where it is commonly assumed to be. ‘Many central spots shift over the centuries and others stay put,’ says Flanagan. ‘Historically, central locations were used to measure the distances from city to city while residents would meet at different, popular focal points. But the analysis clearly shows the exact geometric centres – or where each city would balance on a pin – creating a whole new debate’

Photograph: Esri UK