1829 - Sir Robert Peel establishes the Metropolitan Police in London, the first professional, centrally organised police force. 1856 - County and Borough Police Act makes policing a requirement by law, overseen by the central government.

When did police become a thing in the UK?

Based on the findings of a committee originally set up in 1812, the Home Secretary Robert Peel introduced the Metropolitan Police Act 1829 and the Metropolitan Police was founded on 29 September 1829.

What did England have before police?

Pre-1829 London policing

Before the passing of the Metropolitan Police Act 1829, law enforcement among the general population in England was carried out by unpaid parish constables who were elected, and later appointed by the local justice of the peace.