born within the sound of bow bells

The phrase "born within the sound of Bow bells" refers to being born in the immediate vicinity of the Church of St. Mary-le-Bow in the City of London. Specifically, it pertains to people who are considered true Cockneys, as the ringing of Bow bells traditionally marked the boundary of East London where the Cockney dialect and culture originated. Thus, being "born within the sound of Bow bells" signifies being a true Londoner.