Whilst it is the smallest geographical Borough in London; at 5 square miles; it is also one of the most culturally and economically diverse in the UK. It's residents have included G.K. Chesterton, Frederick Leighton, David Beckham and many of the rich and the famous. Its story can be told through the many examples of personal and civic heraldry found across the Royal Borough including the civic regalia found within the Mayor's Parlour, to which the speaker has had unparalleled access. The story of the development of local government and the influence of such luminaries as Lord Cadogan and Sir Hans Sloane, who founded both the British Museum and The Natural History Museum, will also be examined.