Millennium Bridge, London
Walk London’s sleek 'Wobbly Bridge' between St Paul’s and Tate Modern, with iconic Thames views and a fascinating engineering story.
London’s first new pedestrian bridge in over a century, the Millennium Bridge is a sleek, blade‑like crossing that links St Paul’s Cathedral with Tate Modern across the River Thames. Nicknamed the 'Wobbly Bridge' after its opening‑day sway, it was later stabilised with hidden dampers and now offers one of the city’s most cinematic riverside walks. The bridge frames iconic views of the London skyline and is a favourite for photographers and casual strollers alike.
A brief summary to Millennium Bridge
- Thames Embankment, London, GB
- +442076063030
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photos of St Paul’s and the South Bank skyline.
- Walk the full length of the bridge slowly to appreciate the views in both directions, and pause at the centre for the most balanced perspective of the river and city.
- Combine your visit with Tate Modern and the South Bank, or with St Paul’s Cathedral and the City, to make a full riverside walk.
- Look for the subtle engineering details – the suspension cables beneath the deck and the discreet dampers – that solved the famous 'wobble'.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Walking
From St Paul’s Cathedral, follow the riverside path east along the Victoria Embankment; the Millennium Bridge is about a 5‑minute walk. From Tate Modern, head north along the South Bank and the bridge is directly ahead, about 3 minutes away.
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Public Transport
Nearest tube stations are St Paul’s (Central line) and Blackfriars (District and Circle lines), each about a 5‑minute walk. From Blackfriars, exit towards the river and follow signs for the South Bank and Tate Modern.
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River Bus
Take a Thames Clippers service to Blackfriars Pier or Tate Modern Pier; both are within a 5‑minute walk of the bridge’s southern end.
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Cycling
Cycle along the Thames Path, which runs along both embankments; the bridge is fully accessible to cyclists, who must dismount and walk across the deck.
Millennium 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 Millennium Bridge
A Modern Crossing with a Famous Wobble
Opened in 2000 as London’s first new pedestrian bridge in more than 100 years, the Millennium Bridge is a striking feat of late‑20th‑century engineering and design. Spanning the Thames between the City of London and Bankside, it connects the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral with the Tate Modern art gallery. The bridge’s slender, low‑profile deck and shallow suspension cables give it the appearance of a blade of light skimming the river, a deliberate aesthetic choice by Foster + Partners, sculptor Sir Anthony Caro, and engineers Arup. On its opening weekend, an estimated 90,000–100,000 people crossed the bridge, and its unusual lateral movement under such concentrated footfall earned it the enduring nickname 'The Wobbly Bridge'. The swaying was caused by a previously poorly understood phenomenon: pedestrians’ footsteps synchronising with the bridge’s natural frequency. After a two‑year closure, engineers retrofitted dozens of fluid‑viscous and tuned‑mass dampers beneath the deck, effectively stiffening the structure and eliminating the wobble.Design and Engineering Story
The bridge is a shallow stressed‑cable suspension design, with eight main suspension cables running beneath the aluminium deck rather than above it. This creates a remarkably open, unobstructed walkway that maximises views in both directions. The deck is about 4 metres wide and 325 metres long, supported by two piers in the river, and is engineered to safely carry around 5,000 people at once. The design was chosen through an open competition, reflecting a desire to create a landmark that was both functional and sculptural. The collaboration between architecture, art, and engineering is evident in the bridge’s clean lines and minimal visual impact on the historic riverscape. Its success has influenced bridge design worldwide, with the research into pedestrian‑induced vibrations now incorporated into international engineering standards.Views and the Riverside Experience
Walking the Millennium Bridge offers one of London’s most cinematic perspectives. To the north, St Paul’s Cathedral rises with its great dome, while to the south, the Tate Modern’s industrial brick mass and glass extension dominate the South Bank. The bridge frames the London skyline beautifully, with the Shard, the Gherkin, and the Walkie Talkie visible in the distance, especially from the southern end. The Thames Embankment on either side is a lively riverside promenade, lined with benches, memorials, and public art. On the north bank, the Victoria Embankment offers gardens and monuments; on the south, the South Bank is a cultural hub with theatres, galleries, and food stalls. The bridge itself is a popular spot for photography, particularly at sunrise, sunset, and after dark when the city lights reflect on the water.Practical Visitor Experience
The Millennium Bridge is free to cross at any time and is open 24 hours, making it accessible for early morning walks, late‑night strolls, or as part of a longer riverside exploration. It is fully accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs, with level access from both embankments. Because it is a narrow footbridge, it can become crowded during peak tourist hours, especially in summer and around major events. For a quieter experience, early mornings or late evenings are ideal. The bridge is also a key link in many walking routes, connecting the City with South Bank attractions like Shakespeare’s Globe, Borough Market, and the London Eye, all within a short walk.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Southwark Bridge
0.3 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.
The National Firefighters Memorial
0.4 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who served during the Blitz and beyond.
Blackfriars Bridge
0.4 km
Historic and widest Thames crossing in London, blending Victorian engineering with medieval heritage and stunning river views.
Queen Anne Statue
0.5 km
Historic statue commemorating Queen Anne’s reign and the completion of St. Paul’s Cathedral, symbolizing Britain’s royal heritage and resilience.
St Michael's Church : Paternoster Royal
0.5 km
Historic Anglican church on College Hill, rebuilt by Wren and linked to Dick Whittington, featuring stunning stained glass and a Hawksmoor spire.
Victoria Embankment
0.5 km
A historic riverside promenade in London blending Victorian engineering, scenic gardens, iconic monuments, and stunning Thames views.
Temple Bar London
0.5 km
Explore Temple Bar, London’s historic ceremonial gateway rebuilt by Christopher Wren, rich with royal heritage and striking 17th-century architecture.
Historic England
0.5 km
Discover the rich tapestry of England's history at Historic England, a key organization dedicated to preserving the nation’s architectural treasures.
Ludgate Circus
0.7 km
Historic Victorian junction where London's ancient Ludgate once stood, blending rich legend, architecture, and urban vitality.
London Stone (remaining part)
0.7 km
Discover London Stone, the ancient and mysterious limestone relic at 111 Cannon Street, a symbol of London's enduring history and legend.
South Bank Community Area
0.7 km
A vibrant riverside cultural and historic district in central London, home to iconic landmarks, arts venues, and scenic Thames views.
113 Cannon St
0.7 km
A distinguished Grade II listed classical building in London’s financial district, showcasing early 20th-century architectural elegance.
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.
St Anne & St Agnes Church
0.8 km
Discover the serene St Anne & St Agnes Church, a historical Anglican gem in London, offering stunning architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
IMPRINT Church London: St Mary Woolnoth
0.8 km
Explore the historic IMPRINT Church London: St Mary Woolnoth, a stunning Anglican church offering a blend of spirituality, architecture, and community in the heart of London.
Unmissable attractions to see
Shakespeare's Globe
0.2 km
Experience the timeless magic of Shakespeare’s plays in the iconic open-air Globe Theatre on London’s historic South Bank.
Sam Wanamaker Playhouse
0.2 km
Experience Shakespearean drama by candlelight in this intimate, Jacobean-inspired indoor playhouse on London’s historic Bankside.
Tate Modern
0.2 km
Discover groundbreaking modern and contemporary art in London's iconic former power station, featuring world-class collections and stunning river views.
Bankside
0.3 km
Explore Bankside in London for a perfect mix of history, culture, and stunning riverside views amid a vibrant city atmosphere.
Queen Victoria St
0.3 km
A historic and vital City of London street linking iconic landmarks with Victorian-era urban vision and modern financial life.
College of Arms
0.3 km
Explore centuries of heraldic tradition at the historic College of Arms, London's official authority on coats of arms and genealogy.
Rose Theatre Trust
0.3 km
Explore the historic Rose Theatre Trust site, London's first Bankside playhouse where Shakespeare's early works came to life.
St James Garlickhythe
0.4 km
Discover the historical significance and architectural beauty of St James Garlickhythe, a serene Anglican church in the heart of London.
Shakespeare in the City Walk
0.4 km
Discover Shakespeare’s London through hidden alleys, historic sites, and live performances on this immersive two-hour walking tour starting at Blackfriars Station.
The Blackfriar
0.5 km
A Grade II* listed Art Nouveau pub on the site of a medieval Dominican friary, packed with friar-themed carvings, mosaics, and stained glass in the heart of London.
Church Entry
0.5 km
Discover Church Entry, a narrow medieval alley in Blackfriars tracing the ancient Blackfriars Priory’s sacred church line beneath modern London.
St. Paul's Cathedral
0.5 km
Explore the architectural beauty and spiritual significance of St. Paul's Cathedral, a must-visit landmark in the heart of London, offering stunning views and rich history.
Apothecaries' Hall
0.5 km
Historic 17th-century livery hall near St Paul’s, blending rich heritage with elegant event spaces and timeless charm.
Watling St
0.5 km
Follow the ancient Roman road that shaped London’s history, once a frontier, battlefield approach, and boundary between kingdoms and boroughs.
St Mary Aldermary
0.5 km
Discover St Mary Aldermary, a rare 17th-century Gothic Revival church by Wren’s office, blending medieval roots with stunning architecture in London’s City.
Essential places to dine
Madison
0.5 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
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.
George
0.8 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.8 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Ikoyi Restaurant
1.2 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
1.2 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Mercato Metropolitano
1.2 km
A vibrant, sustainable community food market in Elephant & Castle offering global flavors, local sourcing, and a lively social atmosphere.
St. John
1.2 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Wahaca Southbank
1.2 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
14 Hills
1.3 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Southbank Centre Food Market
1.3 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering diverse global cuisines in a vibrant riverside setting.
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.
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.
Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
1.4 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
Strada Southbank
1.4 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
0.3 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
0.7 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
0.7 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
0.7 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
0.8 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
The Royal Exchange
0.9 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
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.
Smithfield Market
1.1 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
Hay's Galleria
1.1 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
The Store X
1.2 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Barbican Shop
1.2 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
London Silver Vaults
1.3 km
The world's largest underground marketplace for fine antique and contemporary silver, hidden beneath historic Chancery Lane.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
1.4 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.
Traders Gate
1.4 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.
Tower of London Shop
1.4 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Doggett's Coat and Badge
0.4 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
Lyaness
0.6 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
Black Parrot
0.6 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
0.9 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
The Old Bank of England
1.0 km
Historic Victorian pub on Fleet Street housed in a former Bank of England branch with grand interiors and legendary London tales.
Demon, Wise & Partners
1.1 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
The Understudy
1.1 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 Bootlegger
1.1 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.
Ye Olde Mitre, Holborn
1.2 km
Discover Ye Olde Mitre, a hidden Tudor-era pub in Holborn where history, legend, and cozy charm converge in a secret London alley.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
1.2 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill, blending dark medieval history with refined ales and classic British fare in a Grade II listed building.
The Old School Yard
1.3 km
Step into a lively retro playground with expertly crafted cocktails, classic arcade games, and a vibrant 80s and 90s atmosphere in London Bridge.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
1.3 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.
Nine Lives
1.3 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
1.3 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
The Chocolate Cocktail Club
1.4 km
London’s intimate chocolate cocktail bar blending rich flavors, stylish ambiance, and over 20 unique chocolate-infused drinks.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
0.6 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
Ministry of Sound
1.3 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
Proud Late
1.4 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
1.5 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
1.5 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
1.5 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
London Best Night Clubs
1.5 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
Carwash Nightclub
1.7 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
1.8 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Corsica Studios
1.8 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
Heaven
1.8 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.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
1.8 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
2.0 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
The Roxy
2.0 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.
XOYO LONDON
2.0 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Skyline
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
