Portsoken, traditionally referred to with the definite article as the Portsoken, is one of the City of London's 25 ancient wards, which are still used for local elections. Historically an extra-mural Ward, lying east of Aldgate and the City walls, the area is sometimes considered to be part of the East End of London. The ward is about 5 hectares in area, and is mainly oriented north-south, with the central part informally known as Aldgate.