Bargehouse at Oxo Tower Wharf, London
Explore Bargehouse at Oxo Tower Wharf, a raw industrial space on London’s South Bank, hosting cutting-edge art exhibitions and immersive creative events.
Bargehouse, part of the iconic Oxo Tower Wharf on London's South Bank, is a vast and raw industrial space renowned for its edgy art exhibitions and creative events. Housed in a historic riverside building originally linked to London's power and shipping heritage, it offers a unique atmosphere for immersive art, design showcases, and cultural happenings amid panoramic Thames views.
A brief summary to Bargehouse
- Oxo Tower Wharf, Barge House St, London, SE1 9PH, GB
- +442070211600
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-6 pm
- Thursday 11 am-6 pm
- Friday 11 am-6 pm
- Saturday 11 am-6 pm
- Sunday 11 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit during special exhibitions or the London Design Festival for unique immersive art experiences.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the South Bank to nearby cultural landmarks like Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe.
- Check event schedules in advance as Bargehouse hosts diverse pop-up exhibitions and creative events.
- Explore the Oxo Tower Wharf shops and galleries for designer crafts and enjoy panoramic city views from the rooftop restaurant.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take the London Underground to London Bridge station (Jubilee and Northern lines), then enjoy a 10-15 minute walk along the South Bank to Oxo Tower Wharf. Alternatively, Tower Hill station (Circle and District lines) is about a 15-20 minute walk. Bus routes 381 and RV1 also stop nearby. Typical travel times from central London are 15-30 minutes. No additional fare beyond standard London transport applies.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can drop you off directly at Oxo Tower Wharf. Travel times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Note that central London congestion charges and limited on-site parking apply, so this option is best for convenience rather than cost.
-
Walking
For those staying nearby, a scenic walk along the Thames Path from landmarks such as Tate Modern or Shakespeare’s Globe takes approximately 10-20 minutes. The route is flat and accessible, offering pleasant riverside views and easy pedestrian access.
Bargehouse location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Bargehouse
Historic Roots and Architectural Character
Bargehouse is a striking component of the Oxo Tower Wharf complex, located on Barge House Street in London’s vibrant South Bank district. The building’s origins trace back to around 1900 when it was part of Stamford Wharf and served as a power station supplying electricity to the Royal Mail Post Office. Later, it became a cold store for the Liebig Extract of Meat Company, famous for their Oxo beef stock cubes. The Oxo Tower’s distinctive tower, with its cleverly designed windows resembling the OXO logo, was constructed during a 1928-29 Art Deco redesign by architect Albert Moore. Bargehouse itself retains a raw, industrial aesthetic, characterized by exposed brickwork, large open floors, and a sense of unfinished authenticity that appeals to contemporary creatives.A Hub for Contemporary Art and Events
Today, Bargehouse is celebrated as a flexible venue for exhibitions, immersive experiences, and large-scale creative events. Its five floors offer diverse spaces, from intimate rooms to expansive halls, encouraging innovative installations and artistic freedom. The venue has hosted a wide range of activities, including art fairs, fashion shows, product launches, and experimental theatre, making it a magnet for London’s creative community. Despite its edgy, partly decayed appearance, Bargehouse’s unique character provides a compelling backdrop for storytelling and artistic expression that traditional galleries often lack.Integration with Oxo Tower Wharf and the South Bank
Bargehouse forms part of the larger Oxo Tower Wharf development, an award-winning mixed-use complex that combines residential co-operative flats, design studios, shops, and eateries. The Wharf is a cultural landmark along the Thames, linking to nearby attractions like Tate Modern, the National Theatre, and Shakespeare’s Globe via a scenic riverside walkway. Visitors to Bargehouse can easily explore the creative shops and galleries within Oxo Tower Wharf, including the Oxo Gallery and the rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of London’s skyline.Community-Led Regeneration and Cultural Significance
The revitalization of Bargehouse and Oxo Tower Wharf was driven by Coin Street Community Builders in the late 20th century, transforming derelict industrial buildings into a vibrant cultural quarter. This regeneration project preserved the historical fabric while fostering a creative economy centered on design and the arts. Bargehouse’s continued use as a flexible arts venue reflects this community ethos, supporting emerging artists and experimental projects. Its proximity to other South Bank cultural institutions enhances its role as a key creative hub within London’s artistic landscape.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to Bargehouse encounter a raw, industrial environment that contrasts with the polished galleries nearby. The building’s unfinished textures, vast rooms, and layered history create an immersive atmosphere that invites exploration and discovery. Exhibitions often transform the space dramatically, from art mazes to immersive installations, encouraging visitors to engage deeply with contemporary art forms. The venue’s location on the Thames adds a scenic dimension, with riverside walks and views enriching the cultural experience.Future Prospects and Cultural Role
While Bargehouse remains a dynamic venue for temporary exhibitions and events, plans for its permanent commercial development are underway, aiming to balance heritage preservation with modern usage. Its role as a creative space continues to evolve, maintaining its status as a distinctive and influential part of London’s South Bank cultural scene. For art lovers, designers, and cultural explorers, Bargehouse offers a unique glimpse into London’s industrial past and its thriving contemporary creative future.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
South Bank Community Area
0.0 km
A vibrant riverside cultural and historic district in central London, home to iconic landmarks, arts venues, and scenic Thames views.
Blackfriars Bridge
0.3 km
Historic and widest Thames crossing in London, blending Victorian engineering with medieval heritage and stunning river views.
King's Reach commemoration memorial
0.4 km
Historic riverside memorial honoring King George V’s Silver Jubilee and the naming of London’s Thames stretch as 'King’s Reach'.
Victoria Embankment
0.4 km
A historic riverside promenade in London blending Victorian engineering, scenic gardens, iconic monuments, and stunning Thames views.
Waterloo Bridge
0.6 km
Waterloo Bridge, London’s elegant Thames crossing, famed for its wartime women builders and breathtaking panoramic city views.
Prince Henry's Room
0.6 km
Discover a rare Jacobean timber-framed treasure on Fleet Street, rich with history, ornate plasterwork, and tales from London's past.
Hare Pl
0.7 km
Discover Hare Place in Temple, London—a serene historic enclave steeped in centuries of legal tradition and architectural charm.
The Old Watch House
0.7 km
A quaint early 18th-century parish watch house on London’s Strand, offering a rare glimpse into pre-Metropolitan Police community policing.
St Clement Danes Church
0.7 km
Historic London church and Central Church of the Royal Air Force, famed for its Wren architecture, RAF memorials, and iconic 'Oranges and Lemons' bells.
Bomber Harris Memorial
0.7 km
A solemn tribute to RAF Bomber Command’s leader and airmen, set within the historic St Clement Danes Church in London’s Temple district.
Ludgate Circus
0.7 km
Historic Victorian junction where London's ancient Ludgate once stood, blending rich legend, architecture, and urban vitality.
3 Gunpowder Square
0.8 km
A modern square in London’s financial district commemorating the dramatic history of the 1605 Gunpowder Plot and Guy Fawkes’ daring conspiracy.
Richard D’Oyly Carte Monument
0.8 km
A sculptural homage to Richard D’Oyly Carte’s theatrical and hospitality legacy, nestled in the serene Victoria Embankment Gardens.
College of Arms
0.8 km
Discover the College of Arms: A Historic Icon of British Heraldry in the Heart of London, Showcasing Art and Tradition.
Cleopatra's Needle
0.8 km
An ancient Egyptian obelisk on London's Thames Embankment, bridging millennia of history and mystery in the heart of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Big Belly Bar & Comedy Club London
0.1 km
Experience top-tier comedy, delicious street food, and lively drinks at Southbank’s Big Belly Bar & Comedy Club, a hub for laughter and creativity.
56 Gabriel's Wharf
0.1 km
A vibrant riverside enclave blending creative shops, art, and dining on London’s iconic South Bank.
Thames Beach
0.1 km
Discover Thames Beach, a tranquil urban riverside escape with sandy shores, iconic views, and family-friendly charm in the heart of London SE1.
Observation Point
0.2 km
Breathtaking panoramic views of London's iconic skyline from a vibrant riverside vantage on the South Bank.
Monument Queen Victoria
0.4 km
Historic gateway memorial with majestic statues of Queen Victoria and Edward VII, crowned by the iconic City of London dragon.
Southbank Boardwalk
0.4 km
Experience London's vibrant riverside culture, festive markets, and stunning Thames views along the lively Southbank Boardwalk.
Roupell St
0.4 km
Step back into 19th-century London on Roupell Street, a beautifully preserved Georgian workers' terrace and beloved film location near Waterloo.
National Theatre
0.4 km
A Brutalist masterpiece on the South Bank, home to world-class theatre and dramatic river views.
The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple
0.5 km
Discover the historic heart of English law and royal heritage at the Honourable Society of the Middle Temple, home to stunning Elizabethan architecture and centuries of tradition.
Two Temple Place
0.5 km
Discover Two Temple Place, a neo-Gothic Victorian mansion blending literary grandeur and architectural mastery on London’s iconic Victoria Embankment.
BFI Southbank
0.5 km
Discover the heart of film culture at BFI Southbank, London’s iconic venue for classic and contemporary cinema experiences.
Shakespeare in the City Walk
0.5 km
Discover Shakespeare’s London through hidden alleys, historic sites, and live performances on this immersive two-hour walking tour starting at Blackfriars Station.
BFI IMAX
0.5 km
Experience Britain’s largest cinema screen and immersive film events at the iconic BFI IMAX on London’s vibrant South Bank.
Temple Station
0.5 km
Step into history at Temple Station, a Victorian-era gateway to London’s medieval Knights Templar district and legal heritage.
Southbank Book Market
0.5 km
Discover literary treasures and timeless charm beneath Waterloo Bridge at London’s iconic Southbank Book Market.
Essential places to dine
Sea Containers Restaurant
0.1 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.1 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
0.5 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Wahaca Southbank
0.5 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
The Archduke
0.6 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Ping Pong Southbank
0.6 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
Ikoyi Restaurant
0.7 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Strada Southbank
0.7 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
wagamama southbank
0.7 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Bustronome London
0.9 km
Dine in luxury aboard a panoramic double-decker bus while touring London’s iconic landmarks with gourmet cuisine and fine wines.
Troia Southbank
0.9 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
1.0 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
OKAN South Bank
1.0 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
1.0 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
1.0 km
Stylish 4-star hotel on London’s South Bank with exceptional dining, event spaces, and modern amenities near iconic landmarks.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
j-me original design ltd
0.0 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
0.0 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
0.0 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Sugar And Style
0.1 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.4 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Twinings - The Strand
0.6 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
The Store X
0.6 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.7 km
Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
0.8 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
0.9 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
The Old Curiosity Shop
1.0 km
Step into a Tudor-era timbered cottage steeped in Dickensian lore, nestled amidst the vibrant heart of modern London.
London Transport Museum - Shop
1.0 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Gifts of London
1.0 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
London Silver Vaults
1.0 km
The world's largest underground marketplace for fine antique and contemporary silver, hidden beneath historic Chancery Lane.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
1.1 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lyaness
0.1 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
0.3 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
The Understudy
0.4 km
Riverside craft beers, KERB street food, and Thames views at the National Theatre's lively bar – perfect for pre-show bites or late-night hangs on London's South Bank.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
0.6 km
Seasonal cocktails and classics from a cozy mobile bar at Southbank Centre Food Market, where Thames breezes mingle with market buzz and craft libations.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
0.6 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
Black Parrot
0.7 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
0.8 km
Experience London’s vibrant street art and nightlife culture at 26 Leake Street, a unique cocktail bar and event venue in Waterloo’s iconic graffiti tunnels.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.8 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
0.8 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
0.8 km
Chic South Bank cocktail haven in County Hall: bottomless brunches, 2-for-1 sips, pub classics, and Thames views for London's liveliest lunches and nights out.
All Bar One Waterloo
0.9 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
American Bar
0.9 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
Beaufort Bar
0.9 km
Step into the Beaufort Bar’s jet-black and gold Art Deco glamour for exquisite cocktails, live sultry music, and a timeless London night out.
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
0.9 km
Shake up your night in Covent Garden with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclasses in a historic spot pulsing with theater-district energy.
Le Champagne Bar
0.9 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Quirky
- Artistic
- Scenic
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly