Thrilling Thames Rockets at Bankside Pier

Getting There

• Car

  If you're driving from anywhere in Devon, take the A38 towards Exeter. From Exeter, follow the signs for the M5 motorway and merge onto the M5 towards London. Continue on the M5 until it merges into the M4. Take the exit for the A4 towards Central London. Follow the A4 until you reach the A201, then follow signs for South Bank. Once in South Bank, look for signs directing you to Bankside Pier. There is limited parking available in the area, and you may need to use a parking garage. Be prepared for potential parking fees, which can vary.

• Train

  You can take a train from various locations in Devon to London. For example, from Exeter St. David's, take a train to London Paddington. The journey takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. Upon arriving at Paddington, take the Bakerloo Line to Waterloo Station. From Waterloo, exit the station and walk towards the South Bank. Follow the signs for Bankside Pier, which is about a 15-minute walk from the station. Make sure to check the train schedules and book your tickets in advance, as prices can vary significantly.

• Bus

  If you prefer to travel by bus, National Express and Megabus offer services from various locations in Devon to London. Check for schedules and book your tickets online. The journey can take 5-6 hours depending on traffic. Once you arrive at Victoria Coach Station, take the Underground from Victoria Station on the Circle Line or District Line to Embankment Station. From there, it is about a 20-minute walk to Bankside Pier, following the river toward the Tate Modern.

• Public Transport (Tube/Bus Combo)

  For those already in London, the closest Tube stations to Bankside Pier are Blackfriars and London Bridge. You can take the Circle or District Line to Blackfriars or the Jubilee Line to London Bridge. From either station, it’s a short walk to Bankside Pier. Alternatively, several bus routes serve the area. Check the Transport for London website for route options and schedules; bus fares are typically around £1.65 for a single journey.