Southwark Bridge
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.
Spanning the Thames between the City and Southwark, Southwark Bridge is a striking steel-arched crossing opened in 1921. Designed by Sir Ernest George and engineer Basil Mott, it replaced an earlier cast-iron structure and now forms part of London’s illuminated river landscape. Its five elegant spans and green-and-yellow detailing make it a distinctive, photogenic link between Bankside and the City, popular with pedestrians and cyclists enjoying views of St Paul’s and the river.
A brief summary to Southwark Bridge
- Southwark Bridge Rd, London, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit at dusk or after dark to see Southwark Bridge transformed by the Illuminated River lighting, which highlights its steel arches with subtle, shifting hues.
- Walk the full length of the bridge for excellent views of St Paul’s Cathedral, the City skyline, and the South Bank’s cultural landmarks like Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe.
- Look for the old watermen’s steps on the south landing and the frost fair mural in the north bank pedestrian tunnel to connect with the bridge’s historical layers.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Walking
From Bankside, walk north along the Thames Path towards the City; Southwark Bridge is about 10–15 minutes from Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe, with clear sightlines across the river.
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Public Transport
From London Bridge station, walk west along the Thames Path for about 10 minutes; from Cannon Street station, walk south for roughly 15 minutes to reach the bridge’s northern end.
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Cycling
Southwark Bridge is a major cycle route; it can be reached via the Thames Path cycle lanes from either Bankside or the City, with good connections to central London’s cycle network.
Southwark 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 Southwark Bridge
A Bridge Reborn from Iron to Steel
Southwark Bridge as it stands today is actually the second crossing on this site, replacing an earlier cast-iron bridge designed by John Rennie the Elder. That first Southwark Bridge, opened in 1819, was a pioneering three-span iron structure, once the largest of its kind on the Thames and famously known as the "Iron Bridge" in Charles Dickens’ Little Dorrit. Built as a private toll bridge, it struggled with traffic and structural limitations, and by the early 20th century, the City of London decided a wider, stronger replacement was needed. The current bridge, designed by architect Sir Ernest George and engineer Basil Mott, was constructed between 1913 and 1921, its progress delayed by the First World War. When it finally opened, it offered a shallower gradient and greater capacity, solving many of the problems of its predecessor.Design, Structure and the Thames Flow
The present Southwark Bridge is a steel-arched structure with five spans, its piers and abutments clad in grey granite and its arches painted in distinctive green and yellow. This five-arch layout was chosen not only for strength and traffic flow but also to harmonise with the five arches of neighbouring Blackfriars Bridge, helping to streamline the river’s current and reduce crosscurrents. The bridge’s alignment and engineering reflect careful consideration of the Thames’ hydrodynamics, ensuring that the piers do not unduly disrupt the river’s natural movement. On the south landing, remnants of old steps hint at the bridge’s earlier role in the river’s working life, once used by Thames watermen as a landing dock to moor their boats and pick up passengers.A Quiet Crossing with a Remarkable Past
Despite its central location, Southwark Bridge has long been one of London’s quieter Thames crossings, a characteristic noted even in Dickens’ time when it was described as a peaceful escape from the roaring streets. This relative calm, combined with its elegant proportions, makes it a favourite for pedestrians and cyclists seeking a more relaxed Thames crossing. The bridge’s history is marked by both innovation and tragedy: its original 1819 opening was celebrated with gas lighting, a novelty at the time, while the 1921 replacement was completed “without burden upon public funds” by the Bridge House Estates. Tragically, the waters near the bridge were the site of the 1989 Marchioness disaster, London’s worst modern river tragedy, a sombre chapter in the bridge’s story.Art, Light and the Modern Thames
Today, Southwark Bridge is a key part of the Illuminated River project, a contemporary art installation that lights up central London’s bridges. The bridge’s steel arches are illuminated from below with subtly shifting fields of light, drawing inspiration from Impressionist colour palettes and accentuating the latticework and bands of teal and yellow. This lighting transforms the bridge at night, turning it into a dynamic, ever-changing presence on the river. Nearby, a pedestrian tunnel on the north bank features a mural depicting the historic Thames frost fairs, when the river froze and Londoners held festivals on the ice, linking the bridge’s present to the river’s rich, sometimes frozen, past.Walking the Bridge and Its Surroundings
Crossing Southwark Bridge offers excellent views of St Paul’s Cathedral, the City skyline, and the South Bank’s cultural landmarks. On the north side, the bridge connects to Upper Thames Street and the City, while the south side leads into the vibrant Bankside area, home to Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe, and Borough Market. The bridge is heavily used by cyclists—over a million cross each year—and its wide footpaths make it comfortable for walking at any time of day. Whether you’re commuting, sightseeing, or simply enjoying the river, Southwark Bridge provides a distinctive, historically layered Thames crossing that feels both functional and quietly poetic.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Southwark Bridge
0.0 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
0.3 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
0.3 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)
0.4 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
0.5 km
A distinguished Grade II listed classical building in London’s financial district, showcasing early 20th-century architectural elegance.
The National Firefighters Memorial
0.5 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who served during the Blitz and beyond.
Monument to the Great Fire of London
0.6 km
An iconic Doric column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering panoramic city views from its historic 311-step climb.
Statue of James Henry Greathead
0.7 km
Discover the statue honoring James Henry Greathead, the engineer whose invention shaped London's iconic Underground tunnels.
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.
Blackfriars Bridge
0.7 km
Historic and widest Thames crossing in London, blending Victorian engineering with medieval heritage and stunning river views.
Cornhill Fountain
0.7 km
A historic cast-iron water pump outside the Royal Exchange, symbolizing centuries of London's civic pride and public health innovation.
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.
Billingsgate Roman House & Baths
0.8 km
Explore the rich Roman heritage at Billingsgate Roman House & Baths, a fascinating museum revealing ancient life in the heart of London.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sam Wanamaker Playhouse
0.2 km
Experience Shakespearean drama by candlelight in this intimate, Jacobean-inspired indoor playhouse on London’s historic Bankside.
Rose Theatre Trust
0.2 km
Explore the historic Rose Theatre Trust site, London's first Bankside playhouse where Shakespeare's early works came to life.
Shakespeare's Globe
0.2 km
Experience the timeless magic of Shakespeare’s plays in the iconic open-air Globe Theatre on London’s historic South Bank.
St James Garlickhythe
0.2 km
Discover the historical significance and architectural beauty of St James Garlickhythe, a serene Anglican church in the heart of London.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Borough Yards
0.4 km
Discover Borough Yards, London’s vibrant fusion of historic railway arches and contemporary shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
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.
Tate Modern
0.4 km
Discover groundbreaking modern and contemporary art in London's iconic former power station, featuring world-class collections and stunning river views.
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.
Bloomberg Arcade
0.4 km
A vibrant blend of independent dining, public art, and Roman history in the heart of London’s Square Mile.
St Mary Aldermary
0.4 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.
City of London
0.4 km
Discover the City of London’s unique fusion of ancient history and modern finance in the vibrant Square Mile.
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
0.9 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
14 Hills
1.0 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
La Dame de Pic London
1.1 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
1.1 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Mercato Metropolitano
1.2 km
A vibrant, sustainable community food market in Elephant & Castle offering global flavors, local sourcing, and a lively social atmosphere.
Restaurant Story
1.3 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
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.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
1.5 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
1.5 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
1.5 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
1.5 km
Experience freshly handcrafted Japanese udon and crispy tempura in a lively open kitchen setting at Marugame Udon Middlesex Street, London’s authentic udon destination.
Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
1.5 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.6 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Hay's Galleria
0.8 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
1.0 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
1.0 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
1.0 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
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.
Sugar And Style
1.1 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
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.
Smithfield Market
1.3 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
1.3 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
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.
Middlesex Textiles
1.5 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Petticoat Lane Market
1.5 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
The Store X
1.5 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
0.6 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
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 Bootlegger
0.8 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.
Lyaness
0.9 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
Demon, Wise & Partners
0.9 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
0.9 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill, blending dark medieval history with refined ales and classic British fare in a Grade II listed building.
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.
Nine Lives
1.0 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
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 Alchemist Bevis Marks
1.2 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
Moonshine Saloon
1.3 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.
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 Understudy
1.4 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.
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
0.3 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
1.7 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.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
1.7 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
London Best Night Clubs
1.7 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
Cirque Du Soul
1.7 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
1.7 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
Corsica Studios
1.7 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
XOYO LONDON
1.9 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
Carwash Nightclub
2.0 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
2.0 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
The Hoxton Pony
2.1 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Heaven
2.1 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
2.1 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Trafik
2.2 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
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
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
