Southbank Centre
London's riverside arts powerhouse where world-class culture meets festive riverside charm.
A sprawling cultural powerhouse on London's South Bank, the Southbank Centre is a vibrant hub of art, music, theatre, and dance housed within striking brutalist architecture. Stretching between Westminster and Waterloo bridges along the Thames, this pedestrianised riverside destination hosts world-class performances, contemporary art exhibitions, and free public events year-round. Winter transforms the space into a festive wonderland with twinkling light installations, a bustling Christmas market, and a packed programme of seasonal shows and concerts for all ages.
A brief summary to Southbank Centre
- London, GB
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during Winter Light (December–January) to experience the Centre transformed by luminous art installations and the festive market, creating an enchanting atmosphere especially magical after dark.
- Take advantage of the extensive free programming, including outdoor art exhibitions, dance events, and creative workshops, to experience world-class culture without ticket costs.
- Arrive early for popular performances and market days, particularly during December weekends, to secure good seating and avoid peak crowds; weekday mornings tend to be quieter.
- Explore the riverside promenade and public spaces between venues—the Thames-side setting offers excellent views, seating areas, and street entertainment that enhance the overall experience.
- Check the website for family-friendly events and children's programming; the Centre offers dedicated activities for young visitors, from junior comedy to theatrical productions designed for families.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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London Underground (Tube)
The Southbank Centre is served by multiple Underground stations within walking distance. Waterloo Station (Northern, Bakerloo, Jubilee lines) is approximately 5–8 minutes walk north. Jubilee Line also serves Southwark Station to the south, approximately 8–10 minutes walk. Journey times from central London vary by starting point but typically range from 15–30 minutes depending on your origin. No entrance fee; standard TfL fares apply (typically £1.75–£3.40 for central London journeys during off-peak hours, higher during peak times).
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National Rail (Mainline Train)
Waterloo Station, London's major mainline terminus, sits directly north of the Centre and is approximately 5–8 minutes walk away. Trains from across southern England and the South West arrive here regularly. Journey times from destinations like Southampton (1 hour), Bournemouth (2 hours), or Winchester (1 hour 15 minutes) vary by service. Standard National Rail fares apply; advance booking typically costs £15–£50 depending on distance and time of booking.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve the South Bank area, including routes 1, 26, 76, 77, 87, 88, 91, 109, 168, 188, and 381. Buses run frequently throughout the day (typically every 5–15 minutes on major routes). Journey times from central London vary from 15–40 minutes depending on traffic and starting location. A single bus journey costs £1.75 (off-peak) or £2.80 (peak hours); daily caps apply for multiple journeys.
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Walking
The Southbank Centre is highly accessible on foot from central London landmarks. From Westminster Bridge (10–12 minutes), Embankment (12–15 minutes), or the City (15–20 minutes), the riverside promenade offers a pleasant pedestrian route. The Thames Path provides an attractive walking corridor with level access throughout. Walking is free and offers opportunities to enjoy the riverside scenery and street entertainment along the way.
Southbank Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Southbank Centre
A Cultural Landmark Reimagined for Modern London
The Southbank Centre stands as one of Europe's largest arts complexes, a purpose-built cultural institution that has shaped London's creative landscape since its opening in 1967. Comprising the Royal Festival Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall, Hayward Gallery, and the Purcell Room, the Centre occupies a distinctive brutalist architectural footprint that has become iconic in its own right. The complex was originally conceived as part of the Festival of Britain's legacy, designed to democratise access to the arts and provide a gathering space for all Londoners. Today, it continues this mission while evolving to reflect contemporary artistic practice and audience expectations.Year-Round Programming Across Multiple Venues
The Centre's calendar brims with diverse offerings spanning classical music, contemporary performance, visual art, dance, comedy, and cabaret. The Royal Festival Hall, with its distinctive curved architecture and excellent acoustics, hosts orchestras, jazz ensembles, and popular music acts. The Hayward Gallery presents cutting-edge visual art exhibitions, while the Queen Elizabeth Hall accommodates more intimate performances and experimental work. Throughout the year, the Centre maintains a commitment to free and low-cost events, ensuring cultural experiences remain accessible. The programming philosophy emphasises both established artists and emerging talent, creating a dynamic mix that appeals to seasoned culture enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike.Winter's Festive Transformation and Market Magic
As December arrives, the Southbank Centre undergoes a magical seasonal metamorphosis. Winter Light, an annual free outdoor art exhibition, bathes the buildings and public spaces in luminous installations created by contemporary artists, transforming the brutalist structures into glowing canvases. The Winter Market brings festive cheer with artisan stalls offering seasonal street food, warming drinks, handcrafted gifts, and Christmas treats. The market atmosphere—combining the aroma of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts with twinkling decorations and street entertainment—creates an irresistible draw for holiday shoppers and festive revellers. Simultaneously, the indoor venues programme special seasonal shows, from children's theatre productions to Christmas concerts featuring choirs and orchestras performing beloved festive favourites.Riverside Setting and Accessibility
The Centre's location along the Thames between Westminster and Waterloo bridges provides a stunning riverside setting that enhances the visitor experience. The pedestrianised promenade offers level access throughout, making the complex highly navigable for visitors of all mobilities. Seating areas dot the public spaces, inviting people to pause and absorb the atmosphere or enjoy refreshments from the numerous cafés and food vendors. The proximity to other major attractions—including the London Eye, Jubilee Gardens, the National Theatre, and the BFI—positions the Southbank Centre within a broader cultural quarter, making it an ideal anchor for a comprehensive day of cultural exploration.Community and Inclusive Programming
Beyond ticketed performances, the Southbank Centre prioritises community engagement through free workshops, dance events, and creative encounters. Initiatives like Creative Encounters offer monthly free sessions where visitors can participate in hands-on activities such as pottery and sculpture. Free dance events throughout the year encourage movement and celebration, while family-friendly programming ensures children and young people have dedicated opportunities to engage with the arts. The Centre's commitment to accessibility extends to British Sign Language tours, accessible seating arrangements, and welcoming policies that make cultural participation genuinely inclusive.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Waterloo Bridge
0.3 km
Waterloo Bridge, London’s elegant Thames crossing, famed for its wartime women builders and breathtaking panoramic city views.
Cleopatra's Needle
0.4 km
An ancient Egyptian obelisk on London's Thames Embankment, bridging millennia of history and mystery in the heart of the city.
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.
County Hall
0.4 km
Historic Edwardian Baroque landmark on London’s South Bank with iconic river views, cultural venues, and rich civic heritage.
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.
Richard D’Oyly Carte Monument
0.5 km
A sculptural homage to Richard D’Oyly Carte’s theatrical and hospitality legacy, nestled in the serene Victoria Embankment Gardens.
John Adam St & Adam St
0.6 km
Explore John Adam Street & Adam Street, heart of the Adam brothers’ neoclassical Adelphi development, blending Georgian elegance with modern London vibrancy.
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.
Temple Station
0.6 km
Explore the historic Temple Station in London, where Gothic revival architecture meets the vibrant pulse of the city.
Roupell St
0.6 km
Explore Roupell Street, a picturesque Victorian lane in London offering charm, history, and perfect photo opportunities.
The Battle of Britain Monument
0.6 km
Explore the Battle of Britain Monument in London, a powerful tribute to the heroism of RAF pilots during World War II, rich in history and artistic elegance.
Strand
0.6 km
Historic London thoroughfare linking Westminster and the City, famed for grand hotels, cultural landmarks, and hidden historical treasures.
King's College Chapel
0.6 km
Victorian Gothic grandeur hidden above the Great Hall—a masterpiece of engineering and ecclesiastical artistry.
The Gurkha Soldier Statue
0.6 km
A solemn tribute to the fearless Gurkha soldiers guarding Britain’s legacy on Horse Guards Avenue.
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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Royal Festival Hall
0.0 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
0.0 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
0.1 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
0.1 km
Discover the heart of film culture at BFI Southbank, London’s iconic venue for classic and contemporary cinema experiences.
Southbank Book Market
0.1 km
Discover literary treasures and timeless charm beneath Waterloo Bridge at London’s iconic Southbank Book Market.
National Theatre
0.2 km
A Brutalist masterpiece on the South Bank, home to world-class theatre and dramatic river views.
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.
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.
Jubilee Gardens
0.3 km
A peaceful, family-friendly green sanctuary on London’s South Bank with stunning views and a vibrant community spirit.
Southbank Boardwalk
0.3 km
Experience London's vibrant riverside culture, festive markets, and stunning Thames views along the lively Southbank Boardwalk.
The Queen’s Walk
0.3 km
A scenic riverside promenade along the Thames connecting London’s iconic landmarks and vibrant cultural hubs.
lastminute.com London Eye
0.4 km
Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of London’s iconic skyline from the towering lastminute.com London Eye on the South Bank.
London Eye Ticket Office
0.4 km
Discover London's skyline from the iconic London Eye, an unmissable experience offering breathtaking views of the city's landmarks and vibrant atmosphere.
South Bank
0.4 km
Discover South Bank, London’s vibrant riverside district where iconic landmarks, world-class arts, and scenic Thames views converge in a cultural celebration.
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.
Essential places to dine
Strada Southbank
0.1 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
wagamama southbank
0.1 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Ping Pong Southbank
0.1 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
0.1 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Wahaca Southbank
0.1 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
The Archduke
0.1 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Troia Southbank
0.5 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.5 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
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.
The Northall
0.5 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
The Garden
0.5 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
0.6 km
Stylish 4-star hotel on London’s South Bank with exceptional dining, event spaces, and modern amenities near iconic landmarks.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.7 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Sea Containers Restaurant
0.7 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.7 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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.1 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
0.2 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
0.4 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
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.
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.
j-me original design ltd
0.6 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.
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.
The Store X
0.7 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.7 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
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.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.8 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
The Moomin Shop London
0.8 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.
Twinings - The Strand
0.8 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
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
0.0 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
0.1 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
0.2 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Understudy
0.3 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.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
0.4 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
0.4 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
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.
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.
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
0.4 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
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.
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
0.6 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.
Eve Bar Covent Garden
0.7 km
Subterranean Covent Garden cocktail bar tempting with zero-waste elixirs, decadent snacks, and Eden-inspired glamour beneath a Michelin-starred haven.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
0.7 km
Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
0.7 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cirque Du Soul
0.4 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.4 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
Proud Late
0.5 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.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
0.5 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.1 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Carwash Nightclub
1.1 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
1.1 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
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.
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.
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
- Scenic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Casual
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Skyline
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- 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
- Business Friendly
