Lambeth Bridge: A Historic Thames Crossing in London
A striking red steel arch bridge linking Lambeth and Westminster, rich in history and adorned with symbolic pine cone obelisks.
Lambeth Bridge is a striking steel arch bridge spanning the River Thames in London, connecting Lambeth on the south bank with Westminster on the north. Opened in 1932, it features distinctive red paintwork and decorative obelisks topped with pine cone sculptures. The bridge stands on granite-faced piers and carries four lanes of road traffic, linking key landmarks such as Lambeth Palace and the MI5 headquarters. Its rich history includes a predecessor horse ferry and an earlier suspension bridge, making it a notable part of London’s river crossings.
A brief summary to Lambeth Bridge
- Lambeth Rd, London, SE1 7SG, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit at sunset for beautiful views of the Thames and the London skyline framed by the bridge’s arches.
- Look closely at the obelisks to spot the distinctive pine cone sculptures and carved London County Council crests.
- Explore nearby Lambeth Palace and the Thames Path for a fuller experience of the area’s history and riverside charm.
- Use the pedestrian tunnels beneath the bridge to enjoy uninterrupted riverside walks along the embankment.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Jubilee Line to Westminster Station or the Northern Line to Lambeth North Station, both approximately 15-20 minutes walk from Lambeth Bridge. Stations are well connected, with frequent service and step-free access at Westminster. No additional fare beyond standard Oyster or contactless payment applies.
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Bus
Several bus routes, including routes 159 and 360, serve stops near Lambeth Bridge with travel times from central London of 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Buses run frequently but may be slower during peak hours. Contactless or Oyster card payment is accepted.
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River Bus
Use the Thames Clippers river bus services to London Eye Pier or Westminster Pier, then enjoy a 10-15 minute walk to Lambeth Bridge. River bus tickets cost around £6-£8 one way. This scenic option offers a unique perspective of the Thames.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to Lambeth Bridge is pleasant and accessible, taking 10-20 minutes from landmarks like the Houses of Parliament or the Southbank. The terrain is flat and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Lambeth Bridge location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Lambeth Bridge
Historical Roots and Evolution
Lambeth Bridge stands on a site with a deep history as a Thames crossing. Before the bridge existed, a horse ferry operated here for centuries, uniquely allowing horses and carts to cross the river. This ferry was controlled by the Archbishops of Canterbury, whose residence, Lambeth Palace, lies nearby. The ferry service is commemorated today by Horseferry Road on the north bank. The first Lambeth Bridge, a suspension bridge opened in 1862, replaced the ferry but eventually deteriorated and closed to traffic in 1910. The current steel arch bridge was constructed to replace it and was officially opened in 1932 by King George V and Queen Mary.Architectural Design and Features
Designed by architects Sir Reginald Blomfield and G. Topham Forrest, with engineering by Sir George Humphreys, Lambeth Bridge is a five-span steel arch bridge supported by granite-faced reinforced concrete piers. It stretches 776 feet (236.5 meters) in length and 60 feet (18.3 meters) wide, carrying four lanes of road traffic. The bridge’s red color scheme reflects the leather benches in the House of Lords, situated close to its northern end. At each end of the bridge stand decorative obelisks topped with stone sculptures resembling pine cones—often mistaken for pineapples—symbols whose meanings range from hospitality to Masonic enlightenment or botanical homage.Symbolism and Cultural Connections
The bridge’s decorative elements include carved London County Council coats of arms on the piers, honoring the council responsible for its construction. The red paint and obelisks also pay tribute to the bridge’s inauguration by King George V. The pine cone sculptures have sparked much debate; one popular but unlikely theory links them to John Tradescant, a 17th-century botanist buried nearby who grew the first pineapple in Britain. Lambeth Bridge also connects important London sites, linking Lambeth Palace and Albert Embankment with Westminster, including the MI5 headquarters.Modern Role and Surroundings
Today, Lambeth Bridge remains a vital artery for both vehicular and pedestrian traffic across the Thames. It is situated between Westminster Bridge to the east and Vauxhall Bridge to the west. In 1965, it became the first London bridge to be tunnelled underneath to provide pedestrian access along the Thames embankment, a feature that later contributed to the development of the Thames Path. Its location offers scenic views of the river and nearby landmarks, making it both a functional crossing and a point of interest for visitors exploring central London.Engineering and Construction Legacy
The firm Dorman Long & Co, renowned for their work on iconic bridges such as the Tyne Bridge and Sydney Harbour Bridge, constructed Lambeth Bridge. The bridge’s closed spandrel steel arch design is relatively rare among metal arch bridges, combining structural strength with aesthetic appeal. Its granite piers and obelisks add a sense of permanence and grandeur, while the steel arches provide a sleek, elegant silhouette against the London skyline.Enduring Significance and Visitor Experience
While not the most flamboyant of London’s river crossings, Lambeth Bridge offers a blend of historical significance, architectural interest, and cultural symbolism. Its red color and ornamental details set it apart visually, while its connections to centuries of river crossing history enrich its story. Visitors can appreciate the bridge’s craftsmanship and its role linking key political and historic sites, making it a meaningful stop for those exploring the heart of London.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Southbank House
0.3 km
Historic terracotta landmark in Lambeth, blending Victorian pottery heritage with modern creative workspaces.
Statue of George V
0.5 km
A dignified white Portland stone statue honoring King George V, standing proudly in Westminster’s historic Old Palace Yard.
Statue of Oliver Cromwell
0.6 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Oliver Cromwell, standing outside Westminster Hall as a symbol of Britain’s turbulent 17th-century history and contested legacy.
Westminster Hall
0.6 km
Step into Westminster Hall, a majestic medieval masterpiece that has witnessed a millennium of British history, law, and monarchy.
Millicent Garrett Fawcett Statue
0.7 km
Honoring Millicent Garrett Fawcett, the first woman commemorated in Parliament Square, inspiring equality through her iconic statue and legacy.
South Bank Lion
0.7 km
Majestic 1837 Coade stone lion guarding Westminster Bridge, symbolizing London’s resilience and rich heritage.
Vauxhall Bridge
0.8 km
Vauxhall Bridge: Historic iron origins meet modern steel, linking London’s south and north banks with art and engineering heritage.
Westminster Bridge Rd
0.8 km
Discover the scenic beauty and rich history of Westminster Bridge, a must-visit landmark in the heart of London, offering stunning views and vibrant atmosphere.
King Charles Street
0.8 km
Explore King Charles Street, a historic London government hub famed for its grand Victorian architecture and pivotal role in British political life.
King Charles Street Arch
0.9 km
A grand 1908 triple-arched gateway in London’s Whitehall, rich in sculptural detail and historical significance.
His Majesty's Treasury
0.9 km
The historic and strategic heart of the UK government’s economic policy, located in the iconic government district of Westminster, London.
The Cenotaph
0.9 km
Britain’s national war memorial in Whitehall, a solemn tribute to the fallen of the World Wars and later conflicts.
Cockpit Steps
0.9 km
Discover Cockpit Steps, a hidden historic passage in Westminster where London’s royal cockfighting past meets ghostly legend and quiet charm.
The London Dungeon
0.9 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
0.9 km
Historic Edwardian Baroque landmark on London’s South Bank with iconic river views, cultural venues, and rich civic heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Garden Museum
0.2 km
Medieval church celebrating British gardens, from royal estates to allotments, with seasonal café.
Lambeth Palace
0.3 km
Explore the rich history and serene gardens of Lambeth Palace, the iconic residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury in London.
Tamesis Dock
0.3 km
Experience the lively atmosphere at Tamesis Dock, a floating bar on the Thames, offering drinks, food, and live music with stunning river views.
Victoria Tower Gardens South
0.3 km
A peaceful riverside park in Westminster featuring iconic memorials, scenic views, and a family-friendly playground beside the Houses of Parliament.
Sinfonia Smith Square
0.3 km
Experience world-class classical music in a stunning 18th-century Baroque concert hall at the heart of Westminster.
Royal Court
0.4 km
London’s Royal Court Theatre: A historic beacon for groundbreaking new plays and emerging playwrights in the heart of Sloane Square.
Jewel Tower
0.5 km
Discover the Jewel Tower, a medieval fortress guarding royal treasures and parliamentary history opposite London’s iconic Houses of Parliament.
Tate Britain
0.5 km
Discover 500 years of British art at Tate Britain, home to Turner’s masterpieces and iconic works from the Pre-Raphaelites to contemporary artists.
Archbishop's Park
0.5 km
Historic green space in central London with sports, playgrounds, gardens, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Palace of Westminster
0.6 km
Discover the architectural splendor and historical significance of the Palace of Westminster, the iconic heart of British democracy in London.
Dean's Yard
0.6 km
A historic, tranquil green courtyard nestled within Westminster Abbey’s precincts, blending monastic heritage with collegiate charm.
Westminster Abbey
0.6 km
Discover the majestic Gothic abbey where British monarchs have been crowned since 1066 and history echoes through every stone.
Tally Ho ~ London Bike Tours, Taxi Tours & Pub Tours
0.6 km
Explore London’s iconic sights and hidden treasures on classic British bicycles with expert guides and lively pub stops.
St Margaret's Church
0.6 km
Explore the serene St Margaret's Church, a historic Anglican church in London, next to Westminster Abbey, rich in history and stunning architecture.
The Sanctuary
0.7 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort in the heart of Westminster, with cozy rooms, a classic pub, and sustainable hospitality.
Essential places to dine
Sapori
0.3 km
Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine with generous portions and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Westminster, London.
Osteria dell'Angolo
0.4 km
Classic Italian flavors and fresh pasta in a warm, elegant Westminster setting with attentive service and a visible kitchen.
Ma La Sichuan
0.6 km
Experience authentic, boldly spiced Sichuan cuisine in the heart of Westminster with vibrant flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Mio Restaurant & Bar
0.7 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you in this cozy central London gem with generous portions and great value.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
0.8 km
Stylish 4-star hotel on London’s South Bank with exceptional dining, event spaces, and modern amenities near iconic landmarks.
The Pem
0.9 km
Elegant modern British dining in Westminster, honoring heritage with exquisite seasonal menus and refined ambiance.
Colosseo Restaurant
0.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s Victoria at Colosseo Restaurant.
Caxton Grill
0.9 km
Refined British grill cuisine with fresh rooftop garden produce in a relaxed Westminster setting inside St Ermin’s Hotel.
OKAN South Bank
0.9 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Troia Southbank
0.9 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
Chez Antoinette Victoria
0.9 km
Authentic French bistro in London’s Victoria offering classic Lyonnais and Parisian dishes in a cozy, Parisian-style setting.
Brunswick House
1.1 km
Experience inventive British cuisine in a stunning Georgian mansion adorned with chandeliers and antiques, blending history and modern dining in Vauxhall.
The Archduke
1.3 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Bill's Victoria Restaurant
1.3 km
A vibrant British eatery near Victoria Station offering hearty classics, sharing plates, and plant-based dishes in a cozy, casual setting.
Ping Pong Southbank
1.3 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
0.6 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Westminster Abbey Shop
0.6 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
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.
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.8 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
The Giftree London
0.8 km
Discover London's soul in souvenirs, crafts, and conveniences at this Lambeth gem—unique gifts, luggage storage, and local flair await.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
1.0 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
1.1 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Cardinal Place
1.3 km
Experience the ultimate shopping and dining destination at Cardinal Place, London’s vibrant commercial hub near Victoria Station.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
1.3 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.
Crest of London Ltd
1.4 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Gifts of London
1.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Buckingham Palace Shop
1.5 km
Official royal souvenirs at the palace gates: chinaware, gifts, and memorabilia that bring Buckingham Palace's grandeur home with you. (162 characters)
Cool Britannia
1.5 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and vintage photography moments just steps from Buckingham Palace in a lively and welcoming shop.
The Queen's Shop
1.5 km
Exclusive royal gifts and British heritage souvenirs steps from Buckingham Palace, blending luxury, tradition, and timeless elegance in a charming London boutique.
Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
1.6 km
London’s oldest family-run wine merchant since 1698, blending royal tradition with expert wine and spirits in a historic Pall Mall setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Morpeth Arms
0.7 km
Historic Thameside pub with cask ales, hearty fare, haunted cellars, and MI6 views— a Westminster gem blending Victorian ghosts and modern cheer.
Westminster Arms
0.8 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
Blue Boar Pub
0.8 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty British classics in a cozy, historic setting near Abbey and Parliament—perfect for ales, roasts, and relaxed evenings.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.9 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
Primo Bar, London
0.9 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.
Two Chairmen
0.9 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
All Bar One Waterloo
1.0 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
All Bar One Victoria
1.0 km
Sophisticated wines, global bites, and lively vibes on Victoria Street – London's go-to for stylish drinks and casual feasts near Westminster's heart.
Le Champagne Bar
1.0 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
1.0 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.
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
1.0 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
Adam & Eve
1.0 km
Classic Westminster pub pouring real ales and hearty grub amid historic streets—a cozy haven near Parliament and the Abbey for authentic London pints.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
1.1 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
1.2 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Spy Bar
1.2 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Union
0.8 km
Vauxhall's relentless nightclub heartbeat: techno-fueled nights stretching to dawn in multi-zone bliss along the Thames.
Bootylicious London last Saturday of the month
0.8 km
Late-night Vauxhall institution for raw techno, queer-focused party nights and after-hours clubbing on Albert Embankment.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
1.0 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
1.0 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
1.0 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
Lightbox London
1.0 km
Dive into dazzling LED realms at Vauxhall's electrifying nightclub, where lights, beats, and all-night energy create unforgettable weekend escapes.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
1.1 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Fire Nightclub
1.1 km
Vauxhall's railway arch behemoth: all-night house marathons, go-go dancers, and dawn-defying beats in London's gay club epicenter.
Heaven
1.5 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
1.5 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.
Ministry of Sound
1.7 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
Corsica Studios
1.7 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
Proud Late
1.7 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.
The Scotch of St James
1.7 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Tiger Tiger London
1.8 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
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
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly