Plans for a month-long celebration of London have been unveiled by mayor Boris Johnson, with a number of events designed to document the capital's past, present and future in a bid to attract tourists.

The Story of London events will be staged throughout June, highlighting London's contribution to fashion, arts and music and popular culture, as well as celebrating the city's rich heritage. Events will include the Historic Royal Palaces' Tudor river pageant to mark the 500th anniversary of Henry VIII's coronation, a Museum of London season and the British Film Institute's (BFI) Jazz and Film Weekender.

The events will be supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), while prominent historians including Simon Schama, Lisa Jardine, Tristram Hunt and Andrew Roberts will also be involved. A programme of events and activities will also be focused around the smaller museums and sites situated in outer boroughs of London.

Johnson said: "London. Londinium amo. A little place by the river that is home to millions and is a colossus on the world stage. There are so many stories to tell, in so many different ways, and the Story of London will be a kaleidoscopic exposition of the city's past, present and future." Sally Chatterjee, interim chief executive of VisitLondon, said: "London's story is a world story. People visit the city to be part of that story and to experience the depth and breadth of its cultural offering."

HLF chair for London, Wesley Kerr, added: "The festival coincides with 15 years of the Heritage Lottery Fund, which has invested £850m in our great old city. "During the festival, we will be showcasing the benefits of our funding for education, enjoyment and well-being, and look forward to walking with Boris through 2,000 years of London's history."

Image: James O. Jenkins