South Bank: London's Vibrant Riverside Cultural Hub
Discover South Bank, London’s vibrant riverside district where iconic landmarks, world-class arts, and scenic Thames views converge in a cultural celebration.
South Bank is a dynamic riverside district in central London known for its rich cultural scene, iconic landmarks, and scenic Thames views. Home to the London Eye, Tate Modern, National Theatre, and the Southbank Centre, it offers a blend of arts, entertainment, dining, and outdoor spaces. Visitors can enjoy panoramic city views, world-class performances, contemporary art, and relaxing riverside strolls along the Queen’s Walk.
A brief summary to South Bank
- London, GB
- Duration: 2 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the London Eye at sunset for spectacular panoramic views of London’s skyline.
- Explore free exhibitions and pop-up events at the Southbank Centre and Tate Modern.
- Take a leisurely walk along the Queen’s Walk to enjoy street performances and riverside scenery.
- Check out Leake Street Tunnel for ever-changing street art and vibrant graffiti culture.
- Relax in Jubilee Gardens or Bernie Spain Gardens for a peaceful break from the city bustle.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Waterloo Station, served by the Jubilee, Northern, Bakerloo, and Waterloo & City lines. The station is a 5-10 minute walk to South Bank. Typical journey times vary by starting point, with fares ranging from £2.50 to £6.00 depending on zones and ticket type.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve South Bank, including routes 77, 381, and RV1. Buses run frequently during the day, with journey times from central London averaging 15-30 minutes. Contactless payment or Oyster cards are accepted with fares around £1.75 per trip.
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River Taxi
Riverboat services operate along the Thames with stops at London Eye Pier and Bankside Pier, providing a scenic route to South Bank. Travel times range from 15 to 30 minutes depending on departure point. Tickets cost approximately £7-£12 one way.
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Walking
From Westminster Bridge or Waterloo Bridge, South Bank is accessible by a 10-20 minute walk along flat, well-maintained paths suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. The route offers picturesque views of the Thames and city landmarks.
South Bank location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about South Bank
A Cultural Heartbeat Along the Thames
South Bank is one of London's most celebrated cultural quarters, nestled along the southern bank of the River Thames. It hosts the Southbank Centre, the UK's largest arts complex, which includes the Royal Festival Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall, and the Purcell Room. This vibrant hub pulses with music, dance, theatre, and visual arts, drawing artists and audiences alike. The National Theatre, a landmark institution, stages a diverse repertoire from Shakespearean classics to cutting-edge contemporary drama, making it a cornerstone of British performing arts.Iconic Landmarks and Attractions
Dominating the skyline is the London Eye, a 135-meter-high observation wheel offering breathtaking panoramic views of London’s skyline, including Big Ben, St Paul’s Cathedral, and Tower Bridge. Nearby, the Tate Modern, housed in a converted power station, showcases an impressive collection of international modern and contemporary art, featuring works by Picasso, Rothko, and Kusama. The SEA LIFE London Aquarium and the immersive London Dungeon provide family-friendly entertainment, blending education and thrill along the riverside.Scenic Walks and Outdoor Spaces
The Queen’s Walk is a pedestrian riverside promenade stretching between Lambeth Bridge and Tower Bridge, perfect for leisurely strolls with stunning views of London’s landmarks. Jubilee Gardens and Bernie Spain Gardens offer peaceful green retreats amid the urban buzz, ideal for picnics or quiet reflection. The riverside atmosphere is enlivened by street performers, buskers, and the ever-changing street art in Leake Street Tunnel, London’s longest graffiti wall.Artistic and Culinary Delights
South Bank’s cultural venues are complemented by a diverse culinary scene, from casual cafes and street food stalls to sophisticated restaurants and bars. The Southbank Centre’s eateries provide a variety of global flavors and vibrant atmospheres, perfect for a break between performances or gallery visits. Art lovers can explore the Hayward Gallery’s contemporary exhibitions or browse unique artisan shops and galleries scattered throughout the area.Family-Friendly and Inclusive Experiences
South Bank is a welcoming destination for all ages and interests. Attractions like Shrek’s Adventure! London and the Florence Nightingale Museum offer engaging experiences for children and teens. The area is accessible and inclusive, with wheelchair-friendly paths and venues, making it suitable for families, seniors, and solo travelers alike. Seasonal festivals and free public art installations add to the lively, community-oriented spirit.Historic Layers and Modern Energy
While South Bank is a beacon of modern culture and entertainment, it also preserves historic elements such as Lambeth Palace and the Garden Museum, housed in a medieval church. This blend of old and new enriches the visitor experience, offering insights into London’s layered history alongside contemporary creativity. Whether soaking in the arts, enjoying riverside views, or exploring quirky street art, South Bank embodies London’s dynamic and diverse character.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
County Hall
0.5 km
Historic Edwardian Baroque landmark on London’s South Bank with iconic river views, cultural venues, and rich civic heritage.
South Bank Community Area
0.6 km
A vibrant riverside cultural and historic district in central London, home to iconic landmarks, arts venues, and scenic Thames views.
South Bank Lion
0.6 km
Majestic 1837 Coade stone lion guarding Westminster Bridge, symbolizing London’s resilience and rich heritage.
Waterloo Bridge
0.6 km
Waterloo Bridge, London’s elegant Thames crossing, famed for its wartime women builders and breathtaking panoramic city views.
King's Reach commemoration memorial
0.8 km
Historic riverside memorial honoring King George V’s Silver Jubilee and the naming of London’s Thames stretch as 'King’s Reach'.
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.
Embankment station
0.8 km
Discover the charm of Embankment Station, a historic gateway to London's iconic landmarks along the River Thames, blending Victorian elegance with modern transport.
City Cruises London Westminster Pier
0.8 km
London's premier riverside gateway to Parliament, Big Ben, and Westminster's iconic landmarks.
Blackfriars Bridge
0.8 km
Historic and widest Thames crossing in London, blending Victorian engineering with medieval heritage and stunning river views.
Temple Station
0.8 km
Explore the historic Temple Station in London, where Gothic revival architecture meets the vibrant pulse of the city.
Whitehall Gardens
0.8 km
A serene, historic garden on the Thames embankment offering vibrant blooms, peaceful walks, and iconic London views.
Major-General Lord Cheylesmore Monument
0.8 km
A serene stone tribute in Victoria Embankment Gardens honoring Major-General Lord Cheylesmore’s military and civic legacy.
Henry Fawcett Monument
0.8 km
A serene Victorian fountain memorializing Henry Fawcett’s pioneering spirit in social reform and women’s suffrage, nestled in tranquil Embankment Gardens.
Michael Faraday Statue
0.9 km
Discover the legacy of science at the Michael Faraday Statue in London, a stunning tribute to innovation and discovery in the heart of the city.
Chindit Memorial
0.9 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the daring Chindit special forces and their leader Major General Orde Wingate’s legacy.
Unmissable attractions to see
BFI IMAX
0.2 km
Experience Britain’s largest cinema screen and immersive film events at the iconic BFI IMAX on London’s vibrant South Bank.
The Old Vic
0.2 km
Historic London theatre renowned for Shakespearean heritage and vibrant contemporary performances since 1818.
Roupell St
0.3 km
Step back into 19th-century London on Roupell Street, a beautifully preserved Georgian workers' terrace and beloved film location near Waterloo.
Leake St
0.3 km
Dive into London’s vibrant Banksy Tunnel, where ever-changing legal graffiti transforms a forgotten underpass into a dynamic urban art sanctuary.
The Graffiti Tunnel
0.3 km
London’s largest legal graffiti gallery beneath Waterloo Station, where street art thrives in a constantly evolving urban canvas.
Southbank Centre Food Market
0.4 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering global flavors behind the Royal Festival Hall.
Southbank Centre
0.4 km
A vibrant riverside cultural complex in London offering world-class music, art, and festive experiences year-round.
Royal Festival Hall
0.4 km
A historic riverside concert hall and cultural beacon on London’s South Bank, blending iconic architecture with world-class performances.
30 The Queen's Walk
0.4 km
South Bank's riverside food and entertainment hub beneath Hungerford Bridge, where street food, craft beer, and live music meet the Thames.
BFI Southbank
0.4 km
Discover the heart of film culture at BFI Southbank, London’s iconic venue for classic and contemporary cinema experiences.
National Theatre
0.4 km
A Brutalist masterpiece on the South Bank, home to world-class theatre and dramatic river views.
Jubilee Gardens
0.4 km
A peaceful, family-friendly green sanctuary on London’s South Bank with stunning views and a vibrant community spirit.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
0.5 km
Modern luxury and iconic views converge at Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge, your gateway to the heart of London’s South Bank.
Westminster Bridge Rd
0.5 km
Historic Westminster Bridge Road links London’s iconic landmarks with vibrant South Bank culture and excellent transport connections.
Southbank Boardwalk
0.5 km
Experience London's vibrant riverside culture, festive markets, and stunning Thames views along the lively Southbank Boardwalk.
Essential places to dine
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
0.3 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
The Archduke
0.3 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
0.4 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
Strada Southbank
0.5 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
Troia Southbank
0.5 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
wagamama southbank
0.5 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
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.
OKAN South Bank
0.5 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.5 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Sea Containers Restaurant
0.6 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
The Northall
0.9 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
The Garden
0.9 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
Ikoyi Restaurant
1.0 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Ekstedt at The Yard
1.0 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
1.1 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.4 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.
Sugar And Style
0.5 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
0.5 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
0.5 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
j-me original design ltd
0.5 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
0.6 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)
0.6 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
The Giftree London
0.6 km
Discover London's soul in souvenirs, crafts, and conveniences at this Lambeth gem—unique gifts, luggage storage, and local flair await.
Browns of London
0.7 km
Explore Browns of London for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures in the heart of the city, perfect for memorable souvenirs from your travels.
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.8 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Gifts of London
0.9 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
The Store X
1.0 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Houses of Parliament Shop
1.0 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
1.0 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Twinings - The Strand
1.1 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
0.3 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
0.3 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.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
0.4 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.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
0.4 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.
All Bar One Waterloo
0.4 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
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.
Primo Bar, London
0.5 km
Sophisticated South Bank cocktails and live jazz with Big Ben views—Primo Bar blends daytime lounge ease with electrifying nightly performances in stylish 60s-inspired surrounds.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
0.5 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.5 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Le Champagne Bar
0.5 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
Lyaness
0.6 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
0.7 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
Gordon's Wine Bar
0.9 km
Step into London's oldest wine bar, where history, candlelight, and award-winning wines create an unforgettable cellar experience.
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
1.0 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
0.3 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
0.3 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.3 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
Proud Late
0.8 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Heaven
1.0 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
Ministry of Sound
1.1 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
TSQ Club
1.3 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.4 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
Corsica Studios
1.4 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.4 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Carwash Nightclub
1.4 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.5 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
1.5 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
The Ivy Club
1.5 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
The Penthouse London
1.5 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Entertaining
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Skyline
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Colorful Backdrops
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly