Bankside
London's cultural riverside gem where world-class art, historic theatres, and Thames views converge in a vibrant South Bank neighbourhood.
Bankside is a vibrant riverside district in South London stretching along the Thames between Blackfriars and London Bridge. Home to the world-renowned Tate Modern, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, and historic pubs, this cultural hub blends art, history, and contemporary London. The area offers free access to one of the world's largest modern art collections, stunning river views, award-winning restaurants, and a lively atmosphere that attracts millions of visitors annually.
A brief summary to Bankside
- London, GB
- Duration: 2 to 6 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit Tate Modern early in the morning (around 10am opening) or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds. Weekday visits are significantly quieter than weekends, and you can explore the permanent collection thoroughly without feeling rushed.
- Walk across the Millennium Bridge from St Paul's Cathedral for an iconic approach to Bankside. This pedestrian crossing offers stunning views and connects two of London's most significant landmarks seamlessly.
- Combine Tate Modern with nearby attractions: Shakespeare's Globe Theatre is a short walk away, and Borough Market lies just east of London Bridge. Plan a full day to experience Bankside's cultural richness.
- Book timed tickets in advance for special exhibitions at Tate Modern, as popular shows fill quickly. Permanent collection entry is free and requires no booking, allowing flexible exploration.
- Explore the riverside walk at different times of day to capture varying light and atmosphere. Golden hour (late afternoon) provides exceptional photography opportunities with St Paul's Cathedral and the City skyline as backdrops.
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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Underground Train
From central London, take the Jubilee Line to Southwark Station (approximately 5–15 minutes depending on origin). Exit and walk south through the streets toward the Thames; Bankside is a 5-minute walk from the station. Alternatively, use the Circle or District Line to Blackfriars Station (serves the western end of Bankside); exit at the southern entrance and walk toward the river. Journey times from major hubs: 10 minutes from Westminster, 12 minutes from Bond Street, 8 minutes from London Bridge.
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Mainline Train
London Bridge Station (mainline services) sits at the eastern boundary of Bankside. Exit the station and walk west along the riverside or through the streets; Tate Modern is approximately 10–15 minutes on foot. This option is ideal if arriving from southern England or using National Rail services. Journey times vary by origin but typically 30–60 minutes from major UK cities.
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Bus
Routes 381 and RV1 (hydrogen-powered buses) serve Bankside directly. Route RV1 runs along the South Bank between Covent Garden and Tower Gateway, stopping at multiple points in Bankside. Journey times depend on starting point; allow 20–40 minutes from central London destinations. Buses run frequently throughout the day.
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Thames River Boat
Thames Clipper river buses stop at Bankside Pier, providing scenic access from Waterloo, Savoy, Blackfriars, and London Bridge piers. Journey times vary: approximately 10 minutes from Waterloo, 5 minutes from Blackfriars. Fares typically range from £3.50–£9.00 depending on distance. Services run regularly throughout the day, offering an alternative to ground transport with river views.
Bankside location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Bankside
A Riverside District Steeped in Cultural Significance
Bankside occupies a prime position on the southern bank of the River Thames, stretching approximately one mile from Blackfriars Bridge in the west to London Bridge in the east. Located within the London Borough of Southwark, this historic neighbourhood sits directly opposite St Paul's Cathedral, creating one of London's most iconic vistas. The area has undergone remarkable transformation in recent decades, evolving from an industrial waterfront into a thriving cultural and residential destination that seamlessly merges heritage with contemporary creativity.The Tate Modern: A Powerhouse of Global Art
The Tate Modern stands as Bankside's most prominent landmark and one of the world's largest museums of modern and contemporary art. Housed in the former Bankside Power Station, a building originally designed with a deliberately low profile to avoid competing visually with St Paul's Cathedral across the river, the gallery opened in 2000 and has become a global cultural institution. The building's transformation is architectural theatre itself: a full-width slope descends into the spectacular Turbine Hall, a soaring 35-metre-high, 152-metre-long space that has hosted monumental installations by artists including Louise Bourgeois, Olafur Eliasson, and Ai Weiwei. The permanent collection spans paintings, sculptures, and large-scale installations from masters such as Picasso, Matisse, Rothko, Dalí, Pollock, Warhey, and Kusama. Admission to the permanent galleries is completely free, making world-class art accessible to all visitors. The museum operates daily from 10am to 6pm (extending to 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays), with temporary exhibitions available for separate ticketed entry.Theatre, History, and Riverside Character
Beyond the Tate, Bankside pulses with theatrical heritage and historic atmosphere. Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, a faithful reconstruction of the original Elizabethan playhouse, draws theatre enthusiasts from around the world. The Anchor Bankside, a centuries-old riverside pub, offers classic British hospitality with views across the Thames. The area's cobbled streets, converted warehouses, and waterfront promenades create an intimate, walkable environment where centuries of London history intersect with contemporary culture. Historic sites including Crossbones Graveyard and various medieval churches dot the neighbourhood, while modern developments have introduced contemporary lofts and serviced apartments that cater to both residents and visitors.Culinary Excellence and Vibrant Street Life
Bankside has established itself as a destination for exceptional dining and drinking. Award-winning restaurants, independent cafés, and specialist food venues line the streets and riverside. Borough Market, just beyond the eastern boundary, provides access to London's most celebrated food marketplace. The neighbourhood supports a thriving food culture ranging from casual coffee stops to fine dining establishments, many offering Thames views and riverside seating. The area's restaurant scene reflects both traditional British fare and innovative international cuisine, catering to diverse tastes and budgets.Transport Connectivity and Accessibility
Bankside benefits from excellent transport infrastructure. Blackfriars Station (Circle, District, and Thameslink lines) serves the western end, while London Bridge Station (Jubilee, Northern lines, and mainline services) anchors the east. The Southwark Underground station (Jubilee Line) lies immediately south. Bus routes 381 and RV1 (both hydrogen-powered) provide additional connectivity. The Millennium Bridge, a pedestrian crossing linking St Paul's Cathedral directly to Bankside, offers a scenic walking route. Thames Clipper river buses stop at Bankside Pier, providing an alternative transport option with views of London's waterfront. This multi-modal accessibility makes Bankside highly convenient for both day visitors and residents commuting across London.Views, Walks, and Urban Landscape
The Thames riverside path through Bankside delivers some of London's most celebrated views. From this vantage point, visitors encounter panoramic sightlines encompassing St Paul's Cathedral, the City of London's modern skyline (including the Shard, Walkie Talkie, Cheese Grater, and Gherkin buildings), Tower Bridge, and the Tower of London. The riverside walk itself functions as both a major tourist attraction and a peaceful urban escape, with seating areas, green spaces including Bankside Park, and the Turbine Hall at Tate Modern providing respite from the city's bustle. The area's waterfront location creates a distinctive sense of place, with the Thames serving as both a natural boundary and a unifying element that shapes the neighbourhood's character and appeal.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Southwark Bridge
0.1 km
A graceful steel-arched Thames crossing with a rich history, distinctive green-and-yellow detailing, and a key role in London’s illuminated river landscape.
St Michael's Church : Paternoster Royal
0.4 km
Historic Anglican church on College Hill, rebuilt by Wren and linked to Dick Whittington, featuring stunning stained glass and a Hawksmoor spire.
Historic England
0.4 km
Discover the rich tapestry of England's history at Historic England, a key organization dedicated to preserving the nation’s architectural treasures.
London Stone (remaining part)
0.5 km
Discover London Stone, the ancient and mysterious limestone relic at 111 Cannon Street, a symbol of London's enduring history and legend.
113 Cannon St
0.6 km
A distinguished Grade II listed classical building in London’s financial district, showcasing early 20th-century architectural elegance.
The National Firefighters Memorial
0.6 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who served during the Blitz and beyond.
Blackfriars Bridge
0.7 km
Historic and widest Thames crossing in London, blending Victorian engineering with medieval heritage and stunning river views.
Monument to the Great Fire of London
0.7 km
An iconic Doric column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering panoramic city views from its historic 311-step climb.
Queen Anne Statue
0.7 km
Historic statue commemorating Queen Anne’s reign and the completion of St. Paul’s Cathedral, symbolizing Britain’s royal heritage and resilience.
Temple Bar London
0.7 km
Explore Temple Bar, London’s historic ceremonial gateway rebuilt by Christopher Wren, rich with royal heritage and striking 17th-century architecture.
Statue of James Henry Greathead
0.8 km
Discover the statue honoring James Henry Greathead, the engineer whose invention shaped London's iconic Underground tunnels.
Victoria Embankment
0.8 km
A historic riverside promenade in London blending Victorian engineering, scenic gardens, iconic monuments, and stunning Thames views.
Philpot Lane Mice Sculpture
0.8 km
Discover London’s tiniest public sculpture—two bronze mice locked in a timeless tussle over cheese, steeped in legend and Victorian charm.
Guildhall Library
0.8 km
Discover London's rich history at Guildhall Library, a treasure trove of knowledge with rare manuscripts and engaging exhibitions for all.
Custom House
0.8 km
Historic Custom House on London’s Thames waterfront, a grand 19th-century customs hub echoing centuries of maritime trade and empire.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sam Wanamaker Playhouse
0.1 km
Experience Shakespearean drama by candlelight in this intimate, Jacobean-inspired indoor playhouse on London’s historic Bankside.
Rose Theatre Trust
0.1 km
Explore the historic Rose Theatre Trust site, London's first Bankside playhouse where Shakespeare's early works came to life.
Shakespeare's Globe
0.1 km
Experience the timeless magic of Shakespeare’s plays in the iconic open-air Globe Theatre on London’s historic South Bank.
The Clink Prison Museum
0.3 km
Step back into England’s darkest prison history at The Clink Prison Museum, where medieval justice and infamous inmates come alive.
Millennium Bridge
0.3 km
Explore the Millennium Bridge, a modern architectural gem in London, linking iconic landmarks with stunning river views and cultural experiences.
Tate Modern
0.3 km
Discover groundbreaking modern and contemporary art in London's iconic former power station, featuring world-class collections and stunning river views.
Winchester Palace
0.3 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Winchester Palace, a medieval bishop’s grand London residence with a stunning rose window by the Thames.
Borough Yards
0.3 km
Discover Borough Yards, London’s vibrant fusion of historic railway arches and contemporary shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
St James Garlickhythe
0.3 km
Discover the historical significance and architectural beauty of St James Garlickhythe, a serene Anglican church in the heart of London.
St Mary Overie's Dock
0.4 km
Historic Thames dock in London’s Southwark, home to the Golden Hinde II and steeped in medieval and maritime heritage.
Menier Chocolate Factory
0.4 km
Experience cutting-edge theatre in a historic 19th-century chocolate factory with intimate performances and rich industrial charm in Southwark, London.
Southwark View Point
0.4 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of London’s iconic skyline from the vibrant South Bank’s premier open-air viewpoint.
Borough Market
0.4 km
Discover Borough Market, London's historic food haven blending ancient tradition with vibrant culinary delights near London Bridge.
Queen Victoria St
0.4 km
A historic and vital City of London street linking iconic landmarks with Victorian-era urban vision and modern financial life.
Southwark Cathedral
0.4 km
Discover Southwark Cathedral’s rich history, stunning Gothic architecture, and cultural ties in the heart of London’s historic South Bank.
Essential places to dine
Madison
0.6 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Sea Containers Restaurant
0.8 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
1.0 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
14 Hills
1.1 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Mercato Metropolitano
1.1 km
A vibrant, sustainable community food market in Elephant & Castle offering global flavors, local sourcing, and a lively social atmosphere.
La Dame de Pic London
1.2 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Restaurant Story
1.3 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
1.4 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
St. John
1.4 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Ikoyi Restaurant
1.5 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Wahaca Southbank
1.5 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Southbank Centre Food Market
1.5 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering diverse global cuisines in a vibrant riverside setting.
The Archduke
1.5 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
1.5 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
Strada Southbank
1.6 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.5 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
The Royal Exchange
0.8 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
Hay's Galleria
0.9 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
0.9 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
0.9 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.
j-me original design ltd
0.9 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Sugar And Style
1.0 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
Tower of London Shop
1.1 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Traders Gate
1.1 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
Smithfield Market
1.3 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
Barbican Shop
1.3 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
Twinings - The Strand
1.4 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
1.4 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
The Store X
1.4 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Bermondsey Antique Market
1.5 km
Uncover vintage treasures at London’s oldest antiques market, where history meets haggling every Friday morning in Bermondsey Square.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
0.7 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
Lyaness
0.8 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
The Bootlegger
0.9 km
Step into The Bootlegger’s hidden Lime Street basement for expertly crafted cocktails, live jazz, and a true 1920s speakeasy vibe in the heart of London.
Black Parrot
0.9 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
Punch Tavern
0.9 km
Historic Victorian Gin Palace on Fleet Street, famed for its Punch magazine heritage and vast gin selection in the heart of London.
Demon, Wise & Partners
1.0 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
The Old School Yard
1.0 km
Step into a lively retro playground with expertly crafted cocktails, classic arcade games, and a vibrant 80s and 90s atmosphere in London Bridge.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
1.0 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill, blending dark medieval history with refined ales and classic British fare in a Grade II listed building.
Nine Lives
1.1 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
The Understudy
1.3 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.
The Old Bank of England
1.3 km
Historic Victorian pub on Fleet Street housed in a former Bank of England branch with grand interiors and legendary London tales.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
1.3 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
Moonshine Saloon
1.4 km
Step into London’s Moonshine Saloon for an immersive Wild West cocktail adventure with live actors, games, and bespoke drinks made from your own spirits.
Ye Olde Mitre, Holborn
1.4 km
Discover Ye Olde Mitre, a hidden Tudor-era pub in Holborn where history, legend, and cozy charm converge in a secret London alley.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Modern Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
- 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
- Architectural Shots
- Iconic Views
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
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
