Observation Point, South Bank - London's Scenic Riverside Vantage
Breathtaking panoramic views of London's iconic skyline from a vibrant riverside vantage on the South Bank.
Observation Point at 56 Upper Ground, London SE1 9PP, is a premier scenic spot along the River Thames offering breathtaking panoramic views of London's iconic skyline. Visitors enjoy stunning vistas of landmarks such as St Paul's Cathedral, the London Eye, Tower Bridge, and the Shard. This vibrant riverside location is ideal for leisurely strolls, photography, and soaking in the city's atmosphere, especially at sunset.
A brief summary to Observation Point
- 56 Upper Ground, London, SE1 9PP, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit around sunset for spectacular sky colors that enhance the cityscape views.
- Bring a camera or smartphone for excellent photo opportunities of landmarks like St Paul's Cathedral and the Shard.
- Combine your visit with nearby Gabriel's Wharf for boutique shopping and dining.
- Check the weather for clear skies to maximize visibility and enjoy the panoramic views fully.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
Take the London Underground to Waterloo Station, served by the Bakerloo, Jubilee, and Northern lines. From the station, it is approximately a 10-minute walk to Observation Point along Upper Ground. The route is mostly flat and accessible. Tube fares vary but typically range from £2.50 to £5.00 depending on the time and ticket type.
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Bus
Bus routes 1, 68, and 168 stop near the Royal Festival Hall on Belvedere Road, close to Observation Point. From the bus stop, it is a short walk of about 5 minutes. Bus fares generally cost around £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card. Service frequency is regular during the day but may reduce late evening.
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Walking
If you are exploring the South Bank, walking to Observation Point is convenient and scenic. From the Royal Festival Hall, a flat and well-paved riverside promenade leads east towards Upper Ground, taking about 15 minutes. The terrain is accessible for most visitors, with occasional cobbled surfaces near the site.
Observation Point location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Observation Point
A Riverside Panorama of London's Iconic Skyline
Observation Point is a celebrated scenic spot located on London's vibrant South Bank, offering visitors sweeping views across the River Thames. From this vantage, the city's most famous landmarks come into sharp focus: the majestic dome of St Paul's Cathedral, the modern elegance of the Shard, the historic Tower Bridge, and the towering London Eye. The location's open setting allows for unobstructed panoramas that change with the light, making it a favored destination for photographers and sightseers alike.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
The atmosphere at Observation Point is lively yet relaxed, attracting both locals and tourists who gather to admire the views or simply enjoy the riverside ambiance. The area encourages leisurely strolls along the Thames, with the gentle sounds of the river and the city blending into a serene backdrop. Particularly enchanting is the golden hour at sunset, when the sky paints a dramatic canvas of colors, casting a warm glow over the cityscape and creating memorable photo opportunities.Location and Surrounding Attractions
Situated at 56 Upper Ground, Observation Point is conveniently positioned near other South Bank highlights such as Gabriel's Wharf, known for its independent boutiques and eateries, and the Royal Festival Hall. This makes it an excellent starting or ending point for exploring the cultural and culinary offerings of the area. The cobbled and resin-surfaced site also serves as a popular venue for brand activations and events, underscoring its status as a dynamic urban space.Technical and Practical Features
The site is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring clear pathways and nearby amenities including cafes and restaurants. Power and water supplies are available to support events and installations. While the space is mostly open-air, it offers seating areas and shelter options nearby, enhancing visitor comfort. The location benefits from strong mobile reception, facilitating social media sharing of the stunning views.Historical and Cultural Significance
Observation Point reflects London's blend of historic and contemporary elements. Overlooking centuries-old landmarks alongside modern skyscrapers, it symbolizes the city's evolution and cultural richness. The South Bank itself has long been a hub for arts and entertainment, and Observation Point continues this tradition by providing a scenic platform that connects visitors with London's heritage and vibrant urban life.Seasonal Appeal and Visiting Tips
Open year-round, Observation Point offers a different experience with each season—from crisp winter sunsets to lively summer evenings. Its central location means it is accessible in all weather conditions, though clear skies enhance the quality of views. Visitors are encouraged to explore nearby attractions and eateries to complement their visit, making the most of the South Bank's unique blend of natural beauty and urban energy.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
South Bank Community Area
0.2 km
A vibrant riverside cultural and historic district in central London, home to iconic landmarks, arts venues, and scenic Thames views.
King's Reach commemoration memorial
0.3 km
Historic riverside memorial honoring King George V’s Silver Jubilee and the naming of London’s Thames stretch as 'King’s Reach'.
Waterloo Bridge
0.4 km
Waterloo Bridge, London’s elegant Thames crossing, famed for its wartime women builders and breathtaking panoramic city views.
Blackfriars Bridge
0.5 km
Historic and widest Thames crossing in London, blending Victorian engineering with medieval heritage and stunning river views.
The Old Watch House
0.5 km
A quaint early 18th-century parish watch house on London’s Strand, offering a rare glimpse into pre-Metropolitan Police community policing.
Victoria Embankment
0.5 km
A historic riverside promenade in London blending Victorian engineering, scenic gardens, iconic monuments, and stunning Thames views.
St Clement Danes Church
0.6 km
Historic London church and Central Church of the Royal Air Force, famed for its Wren architecture, RAF memorials, and iconic 'Oranges and Lemons' bells.
Bomber Harris Memorial
0.6 km
A solemn tribute to RAF Bomber Command’s leader and airmen, set within the historic St Clement Danes Church in London’s Temple district.
Prince Henry's Room
0.6 km
Discover a rare Jacobean timber-framed treasure on Fleet Street, rich with history, ornate plasterwork, and tales from London's past.
Hare Pl
0.6 km
Discover Hare Place in Temple, London—a serene historic enclave steeped in centuries of legal tradition and architectural charm.
Richard D’Oyly Carte Monument
0.6 km
A sculptural homage to Richard D’Oyly Carte’s theatrical and hospitality legacy, nestled in the serene Victoria Embankment Gardens.
Cleopatra's Needle
0.7 km
An ancient Egyptian obelisk on London's Thames Embankment, bridging millennia of history and mystery in the heart of the city.
Henry Fawcett Monument
0.7 km
A serene Victorian fountain memorializing Henry Fawcett’s pioneering spirit in social reform and women’s suffrage, nestled in tranquil Embankment Gardens.
Strand
0.7 km
Historic London thoroughfare linking Westminster and the City, famed for grand hotels, cultural landmarks, and hidden historical treasures.
Major-General Lord Cheylesmore Monument
0.7 km
A serene stone tribute in Victoria Embankment Gardens honoring Major-General Lord Cheylesmore’s military and civic legacy.
Unmissable attractions to see
Thames Beach
0.1 km
Discover Thames Beach, a tranquil urban riverside escape with sandy shores, iconic views, and family-friendly charm in the heart of London SE1.
56 Gabriel's Wharf
0.1 km
A vibrant riverside enclave blending creative shops, art, and dining on London’s iconic South Bank.
Bargehouse
0.2 km
Explore Bargehouse at Oxo Tower Wharf, a raw industrial space on London’s South Bank, hosting cutting-edge art exhibitions and immersive creative events.
Southbank Boardwalk
0.2 km
Experience London's vibrant riverside culture, festive markets, and stunning Thames views along the lively Southbank Boardwalk.
National Theatre
0.3 km
A Brutalist masterpiece on the South Bank, home to world-class theatre and dramatic river views.
Big Belly Bar & Comedy Club London
0.3 km
Experience top-tier comedy, delicious street food, and lively drinks at Southbank’s Big Belly Bar & Comedy Club, a hub for laughter and creativity.
Monument Queen Victoria
0.3 km
Historic gateway memorial with majestic statues of Queen Victoria and Edward VII, crowned by the iconic City of London dragon.
BFI Southbank
0.3 km
Discover the heart of film culture at BFI Southbank, London’s iconic venue for classic and contemporary cinema experiences.
Southbank Book Market
0.4 km
Discover literary treasures and timeless charm beneath Waterloo Bridge at London’s iconic Southbank Book Market.
Temple Station
0.4 km
Step into history at Temple Station, a Victorian-era gateway to London’s medieval Knights Templar district and legal heritage.
Two Temple Place
0.4 km
Discover Two Temple Place, a neo-Gothic Victorian mansion blending literary grandeur and architectural mastery on London’s iconic Victoria Embankment.
The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple
0.4 km
Discover the historic heart of English law and royal heritage at the Honourable Society of the Middle Temple, home to stunning Elizabethan architecture and centuries of tradition.
BFI IMAX
0.4 km
Experience Britain’s largest cinema screen and immersive film events at the iconic BFI IMAX on London’s vibrant South Bank.
Roupell St
0.5 km
Step back into 19th-century London on Roupell Street, a beautifully preserved Georgian workers' terrace and beloved film location near Waterloo.
Southbank Centre
0.5 km
London’s premier riverside arts centre offering world-class performances, festive markets, and vibrant cultural experiences year-round.
Essential places to dine
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.0 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Sea Containers Restaurant
0.3 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Wahaca Southbank
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
0.4 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Ping Pong Southbank
0.5 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
The Archduke
0.5 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Strada Southbank
0.5 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
Ikoyi Restaurant
0.5 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
wagamama southbank
0.5 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
0.8 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.8 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Troia Southbank
0.8 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
Balthazar
0.8 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Sarastro
0.9 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sugar And Style
0.1 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
j-me original design ltd
0.2 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
0.2 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)
0.2 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
The Store X
0.5 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.5 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.
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.5 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Twinings - The Strand
0.6 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
0.7 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
0.8 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.8 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Gifts of London
0.8 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
The Old Curiosity Shop
0.8 km
Step into a Tudor-era timbered cottage steeped in Dickensian lore, nestled amidst the vibrant heart of modern London.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.9 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
0.9 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Understudy
0.2 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.
Lyaness
0.3 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
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.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
0.5 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
0.5 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
0.7 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
American Bar
0.7 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
0.7 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.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
0.7 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.
Black Parrot
0.7 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
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.
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
0.7 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
Punch Tavern
0.8 km
Historic Victorian Gin Palace on Fleet Street, famed for its Punch magazine heritage and vast gin selection in the heart of London.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
0.8 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.
Plume Wine Bar
0.8 km
Covent Garden speakeasy in Dickens' old offices: sparkling wines from afar, cheesy sharing plates, and note-passing to strangers in candlelit luxury.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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.
Cirque Du Soul
0.8 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.8 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
0.8 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
0.9 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Heaven
0.9 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.
Carwash Nightclub
1.0 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
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.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.2 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.2 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.
The Roxy
1.2 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.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.3 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.
The Ivy Club
1.3 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
TSQ Club
1.3 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.
The Penthouse London
1.4 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Photowalk
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly