Southbank Book Market
Discover literary treasures and timeless charm beneath Waterloo Bridge at London’s iconic Southbank Book Market.
Nestled beneath the iconic Waterloo Bridge along the River Thames, the Southbank Book Market is a beloved London institution for book lovers. Operating since 1983, this charming outdoor market features a diverse collection of second-hand and antiquarian books, maps, prints, and postcards. Open daily from 10am to 5:30pm, it offers a unique browsing experience amid the vibrant South Bank atmosphere, blending literary treasures with riverside views.
A brief summary to Southbank Book Market
- Waterloo Bridge, London, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the day for the best selection and quieter browsing.
- Bring cash as some stalls may not accept card payments.
- Check weather conditions before visiting, as the market may close in poor weather.
- Combine your visit with nearby cultural spots like the BFI Southbank cinema and National Theatre.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Tube
Take the London Underground to Waterloo Station on the Bakerloo Line. From the station, it is approximately a 15-minute walk along the South Bank to Waterloo Bridge, where the market is located. The tube journey time varies depending on your starting point, typically 10–30 minutes. Note that Waterloo Station is well-served but can be busy during peak hours.
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Bus
Bus routes 211 and 77 serve Waterloo Station. From the bus stop, it is about a 10-minute walk to the Southbank Book Market beneath Waterloo Bridge. Buses run frequently during the day, with fares around £1.75 using contactless payment. Service frequency may reduce in the evenings and on weekends.
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Riverboat
Riverboat services from central London to Waterloo Pier provide a scenic approach. After disembarking, a short 5–10 minute walk along Queen’s Walk leads to the market under Waterloo Bridge. Riverboat tickets cost approximately £6–£8 one way, depending on the operator and ticket type.
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Walking
If you are near the London Eye or other South Bank attractions, walking to the market is pleasant and takes about 10–20 minutes along the riverside path. The terrain is flat and accessible, suitable for most visitors. This option allows you to enjoy the vibrant South Bank atmosphere en route.
Southbank Book Market 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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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Southbank Book Market
A Literary Haven Beneath Waterloo Bridge
The Southbank Book Market has been a cherished fixture of London’s cultural landscape since its opening in July 1983. Conceived by Leslie Hardcastle, then controller of the British Film Institute, the market was designed to enliven the otherwise dark and underutilized space beneath the south arch of Waterloo Bridge. Inspired by the Parisian bouquinistes along the Seine, the market started with custom timber stalls and has grown into a vibrant gathering place for bibliophiles and casual visitors alike.Diverse Collections and Timeless Appeal
The market comprises around eight permanent stalls, each offering a richly varied selection of books. Visitors can find everything from contemporary fiction and children’s literature to vintage and antiquarian editions. Alongside books, the market also features historic maps, prints, and postcards, making it a treasure trove for collectors and curious browsers. The traders, some of whom have been part of the market since its inception, bring deep knowledge and enthusiasm, often ready to help visitors discover hidden gems.Atmosphere and Setting by the Thames
Situated on Queen’s Walk, the market enjoys a scenic riverside location that adds to its charm. The sheltered spot beneath Waterloo Bridge protects visitors and stock from the elements, although the market may close during severe weather or transport disruptions. The ambience is lively yet relaxed, often accompanied by street musicians and the gentle sounds of the Thames, creating a quintessentially London experience. Benches nearby invite visitors to sit and enjoy their new finds while watching boats glide along the river.Practical Details and Visiting Tips
Open daily from 10am to 5:30pm, the market’s hours can vary slightly depending on weather and stall availability, with weekends offering the fullest selection. Prices are generally affordable, with paperbacks ranging from about £2 to £7. Many sellers prefer cash, so bringing some on your visit is recommended. The market’s location near cultural landmarks like the BFI Southbank cinema and the National Theatre makes it easy to combine with other South Bank attractions.Historical and Cultural Significance
Over its four decades, the Southbank Book Market has witnessed shifts in literary tastes and the evolving character of the South Bank area. It has become part of the Southbank Centre since 2001, benefiting from initiatives like the Illuminated River project, which enhances lighting beneath the bridge for both booksellers and visitors. The market stands as a testament to London’s enduring love of literature and outdoor cultural spaces.A Unique Outdoor Bookshop Experience
Unlike typical indoor bookstores, the Southbank Book Market offers a distinctive open-air browsing experience. Its riverside setting, historic roots, and eclectic stock make it a must-visit for anyone passionate about books or seeking a peaceful yet stimulating spot in central London. Whether hunting for rare editions or simply enjoying the atmosphere, the market is a literary gem tucked beneath one of London’s most famous bridges.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Waterloo Bridge
0.2 km
Waterloo Bridge, London’s elegant Thames crossing, famed for its wartime women builders and breathtaking panoramic city views.
Cleopatra's Needle
0.3 km
An ancient Egyptian obelisk on London's Thames Embankment, bridging millennia of history and mystery in the heart of the city.
Richard D’Oyly Carte Monument
0.4 km
A sculptural homage to Richard D’Oyly Carte’s theatrical and hospitality legacy, nestled in the serene Victoria Embankment Gardens.
Henry Fawcett Monument
0.4 km
A serene Victorian fountain memorializing Henry Fawcett’s pioneering spirit in social reform and women’s suffrage, nestled in tranquil Embankment Gardens.
Major-General Lord Cheylesmore Monument
0.4 km
A serene stone tribute in Victoria Embankment Gardens honoring Major-General Lord Cheylesmore’s military and civic legacy.
King's Reach commemoration memorial
0.5 km
Historic riverside memorial honoring King George V’s Silver Jubilee and the naming of London’s Thames stretch as 'King’s Reach'.
The Old Watch House
0.5 km
A quaint early 18th-century parish watch house on London’s Strand, offering a rare glimpse into pre-Metropolitan Police community policing.
Strand
0.5 km
Historic London thoroughfare linking Westminster and the City, famed for grand hotels, cultural landmarks, and hidden historical treasures.
John Adam St & Adam St
0.5 km
Explore John Adam Street & Adam Street, heart of the Adam brothers’ neoclassical Adelphi development, blending Georgian elegance with modern London vibrancy.
South Bank Community Area
0.5 km
A vibrant riverside cultural and historic district in central London, home to iconic landmarks, arts venues, and scenic Thames views.
The London Dungeon
0.6 km
Explore London's haunting history at The London Dungeon, where thrilling rides and live performances bring the city's dark tales to life.
County Hall
0.6 km
Historic Edwardian Baroque landmark on London’s South Bank with iconic river views, cultural venues, and rich civic heritage.
Whitehall Gardens
0.6 km
A serene, historic garden on the Thames embankment offering vibrant blooms, peaceful walks, and iconic London views.
Roupell St
0.6 km
Explore Roupell Street, a picturesque Victorian lane in London offering charm, history, and perfect photo opportunities.
Royal Tank Regiment Memorial Statue
0.6 km
A commanding bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring the bravery and teamwork of the Royal Tank Regiment’s WWII Comet tank crews.
Unmissable attractions to see
BFI Southbank
0.1 km
Discover the heart of film culture at BFI Southbank, London’s iconic venue for classic and contemporary cinema experiences.
National Theatre
0.1 km
A Brutalist masterpiece on the South Bank, home to world-class theatre and dramatic river views.
Southbank Centre
0.1 km
London’s premier riverside arts centre offering world-class performances, festive markets, and vibrant cultural experiences year-round.
Southbank Boardwalk
0.2 km
Experience London's vibrant riverside culture, festive markets, and stunning Thames views along the lively Southbank Boardwalk.
Royal Festival Hall
0.2 km
A historic riverside concert hall and cultural beacon on London’s South Bank, blending iconic architecture with world-class performances.
Southbank Centre Food Market
0.2 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering global flavors behind the Royal Festival Hall.
30 The Queen's Walk
0.2 km
South Bank's riverside food and entertainment hub beneath Hungerford Bridge, where street food, craft beer, and live music meet the Thames.
BFI IMAX
0.3 km
Experience Britain’s largest cinema screen and immersive film events at the iconic BFI IMAX on London’s vibrant South Bank.
Victoria Embankment
0.3 km
Explore Victoria Embankment, a historic riverside promenade in London featuring iconic views, tranquil gardens, and rich Victorian heritage.
Hungerford Bridge and Golden Jubilee Bridges
0.3 km
Iconic Thames crossing blending Victorian railway heritage with sleek cable-stayed footbridges and stunning panoramic London views.
Observation Point
0.4 km
Breathtaking panoramic views of London's iconic skyline from a vibrant riverside vantage on the South Bank.
Michael Faraday Statue
0.4 km
A bronze tribute to Michael Faraday, celebrating his revolutionary discoveries in electromagnetism at the heart of London’s engineering heritage.
56 Gabriel's Wharf
0.4 km
A vibrant riverside enclave blending creative shops, art, and dining on London’s iconic South Bank.
Bustronome London
0.4 km
Savor gourmet dining aboard a panoramic double-decker bus while cruising past London’s iconic landmarks in unmatched style and comfort.
Thames Beach
0.4 km
Discover Thames Beach, a tranquil urban riverside escape with sandy shores, iconic views, and family-friendly charm in the heart of London SE1.
Essential places to dine
Wahaca Southbank
0.0 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
0.2 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Strada Southbank
0.2 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
wagamama southbank
0.2 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Ping Pong Southbank
0.2 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
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.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.4 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Ikoyi Restaurant
0.6 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.6 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
The Northall
0.6 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
The Garden
0.6 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
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.
Troia Southbank
0.6 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
OKAN South Bank
0.6 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Rules
0.6 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.2 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
0.4 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Sugar And Style
0.4 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
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.
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.
Gifts of London
0.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
0.5 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)
0.5 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
The Store X
0.6 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.6 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.7 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
Twinings - The Strand
0.7 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 Moomin Shop London
0.7 km
Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
Floral Street
0.8 km
Contemporary floral fragrances crafted with purpose, sustainability, and joy in the heart of London.
Crest of London Ltd
0.8 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Understudy
0.2 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.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
0.2 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
0.2 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.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.3 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
American Bar
0.5 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
0.5 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.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
0.5 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.
Le Champagne Bar
0.5 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
0.5 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
0.5 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
0.6 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
0.6 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.
Eve Bar Covent Garden
0.6 km
Subterranean Covent Garden cocktail bar tempting with zero-waste elixirs, decadent snacks, and Eden-inspired glamour beneath a Michelin-starred haven.
Plume Wine Bar
0.6 km
Covent Garden speakeasy in Dickens' old offices: sparkling wines from afar, cheesy sharing plates, and note-passing to strangers in candlelit luxury.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
0.6 km
Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Proud Late
0.3 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.
Cirque Du Soul
0.6 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.6 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
Heaven
0.6 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.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
0.6 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.0 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.
Carwash Nightclub
1.0 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
TSQ Club
1.0 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.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.0 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.0 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.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
1.0 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
The Roxy
1.1 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
The Ivy Club
1.1 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
The Penthouse London
1.1 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Café de Paris
1.2 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
