Westminster Bridge: Iconic Gothic Crossing Over the Thames
Historic Gothic bridge over the Thames offering stunning views of Big Ben, the London Eye, and the Houses of Parliament.
Westminster Bridge is a historic road and pedestrian bridge spanning the River Thames in London, linking Westminster with Lambeth. Opened in 1862 and designed by Thomas Page with Gothic detailing by Charles Barry, it features seven cast-iron arches painted green to echo the House of Commons seats. The bridge offers spectacular panoramic views of landmarks like Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye, making it a must-visit for sightseeing and photography.
A brief summary to Westminster Bridge
- Westminster Bridge, London, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late evening to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photography.
- Use the wide pedestrian paths for easy wheelchair access and safe walking.
- Look out for the Victorian-era gas lamps and detailed ironwork symbols along the bridge.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the London Eye, County Hall, and the Palace of Westminster.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Jubilee, Circle, or District Line to Westminster Station, located about a 5-minute walk from the north end of the bridge. Trains run frequently with fares starting around £2.50 using contactless payment or Oyster card.
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Bus
Bus routes 12, 53, and 148 stop near Westminster Bridge, connecting it with various parts of central London. Bus fares start at approximately £1.75 per journey with contactless payment. Service frequency varies but is generally every 5 to 15 minutes.
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Walking
If you are nearby, walking to Westminster Bridge is pleasant and accessible, with wide, level pavements. Walking times vary depending on starting point but expect around 10 to 20 minutes from nearby landmarks such as the London Eye or Westminster Abbey.
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Cycling
Cycling is permitted on Westminster Bridge via designated cycle lanes. London’s Santander Cycle hire scheme has docking stations nearby. Be cautious of traffic and pedestrians, especially during busy periods.
Westminster Bridge location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Westminster Bridge
A Testament to Victorian Engineering and Design
Westminster Bridge stands as one of London’s oldest and most architecturally significant bridges, originally opened in 1862. Engineered by Thomas Page and adorned with Gothic Revival details by Charles Barry, the architect behind the Palace of Westminster, the bridge stretches approximately 827 feet (250 meters) with seven elegant cast-iron arches supported by granite abutments. Its verdant green paint is a deliberate homage to the leather seats of the nearby House of Commons, symbolically connecting the bridge to the political heart of the city.Strategic Location Linking Historic and Cultural Districts
The bridge connects the bustling Westminster district on the north bank with Lambeth on the south, providing vital passage for both vehicles and pedestrians. On the north side, it faces the iconic Palace of Westminster and Big Ben, while the south bank offers views of the London Eye and County Hall. This positioning makes Westminster Bridge a key vantage point for panoramic vistas of London’s skyline and a popular route for commuters and tourists alike.Architectural and Artistic Details
Beyond its structural function, Westminster Bridge is celebrated for its intricate decorative elements. The cast-iron parapets and spandrels feature Gothic motifs and symbols of the United Kingdom, including portcullises, roses, thistles, and shields. The bridge’s Victorian-era gas lamps, with their green and gold crests, add a historic charm, especially when illuminated at night, softly lighting the pedestrian pathways.A Hub for Iconic Views and Photography
Visitors flock to Westminster Bridge to capture quintessential London scenes. From the bridge, one can photograph Big Ben’s Elizabeth Tower framed against the Thames, or the giant capsules of the London Eye. The bridge’s wide pedestrian walkways provide ample space for leisurely strolls, sightseeing, and photography, with particularly stunning views at sunrise, sunset, and after dark when the city lights shimmer on the water.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
Westminster Bridge is fully accessible, featuring wide, level pavements suitable for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility. While it can become busy during peak hours and weekends, early mornings and late evenings offer a more tranquil experience. The bridge is open 24/7 with no entrance fee, making it an inviting public space for both locals and tourists. Nearby amenities include seating areas and food options along the South Bank.Historical Significance and Cultural Presence
The current bridge replaced an earlier 18th-century structure and has witnessed London’s evolution for over 160 years. It has appeared in numerous films and television shows, cementing its place in popular culture. Its proximity to landmarks such as Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament underscores its importance as a symbol of London’s rich heritage and vibrant urban life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
South Bank Lion
0.1 km
Majestic 1837 Coade stone lion guarding Westminster Bridge, symbolizing London’s resilience and rich heritage.
Westminster Hall
0.3 km
Step into Westminster Hall, a majestic medieval masterpiece that has witnessed a millennium of British history, law, and monarchy.
County Hall
0.3 km
Historic Edwardian Baroque landmark on London’s South Bank with iconic river views, cultural venues, and rich civic heritage.
Statue of Oliver Cromwell
0.3 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.
Chindit Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the daring Chindit special forces and their leader Major General Orde Wingate’s legacy.
King Charles Street
0.3 km
Explore King Charles Street, a historic London government hub famed for its grand Victorian architecture and pivotal role in British political life.
The Cenotaph
0.3 km
Britain’s national war memorial in Whitehall, a solemn tribute to the fallen of the World Wars and later conflicts.
King Charles Street Arch
0.4 km
A grand 1908 triple-arched gateway in London’s Whitehall, rich in sculptural detail and historical significance.
Millicent Garrett Fawcett Statue
0.4 km
Honoring Millicent Garrett Fawcett, the first woman commemorated in Parliament Square, inspiring equality through her iconic statue and legacy.
Statue of George V
0.4 km
A dignified white Portland stone statue honoring King George V, standing proudly in Westminster’s historic Old Palace Yard.
The Women of World War II
0.4 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring over seven million British women’s vital roles during World War II.
Victoria Tower Gardens South
0.5 km
A peaceful riverside park in Westminster featuring iconic memorials and stunning views of the Palace of Westminster and the Thames.
10 Downing Street
0.5 km
Iconic London residence and office of the UK Prime Minister, steeped in centuries of political history and power.
Whitehall Gardens
0.5 km
A serene, historic garden on the Thames embankment offering vibrant blooms, peaceful walks, and iconic London views.
10 Downing St
0.5 km
Discover the historic seat of British leadership, where iconic moments and political power converge behind the famous black door.
Unmissable attractions to see
Boadicea and Her Daughters
0.1 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Boudica, the fierce Celtic queen, standing proud on her chariot beside Westminster Bridge in the heart of London.
City Cruises London Westminster Pier
0.1 km
Experience the beauty of London from the water at Westminster Pier, your gateway to unforgettable Thames River adventures.
Westminster Millennium Pier
0.1 km
Experience London's iconic riverfront from Westminster Millennium Pier, your gateway to historic landmarks and scenic Thames cruises.
Westminster Pier
0.1 km
A vibrant river gateway beside iconic London landmarks, Westminster Pier invites you to explore the Thames and historic city sights from the water.
Memorial wall
0.1 km
A heartfelt 500-metre mural along the Thames commemorating every UK life lost to COVID-19 with over 245,000 hand-painted hearts.
Big Ben
0.2 km
Explore Big Ben, London's iconic clock tower, a cultural landmark and symbol of British history, attracting millions of tourists each year.
SEA LIFE London Aquarium
0.2 km
Dive into London’s premier marine world with over 500 species, immersive underwater tunnels, and inspiring conservation efforts at SEA LIFE London Aquarium.
Shrek's Adventure London
0.2 km
Step into a magical world of fairy tales and fun with Shrek and friends on London’s South Bank, perfect for families and kids aged 6 to 12.
Bridge St
0.2 km
Historic Bridge Street in London offers riverside views, rich heritage, and vibrant urban life beside the iconic London Bridge.
The London Eye Millennium Pier
0.2 km
A modern riverside gateway beside the London Eye, connecting you to iconic London landmarks and vibrant Thames river journeys.
Palace of Westminster
0.2 km
Discover the architectural splendor and historical significance of the Palace of Westminster, the iconic heart of British democracy in London.
The Battle of Britain Monument
0.3 km
A powerful bronze and granite tribute on London’s Victoria Embankment honoring the heroic RAF pilots of the 1940 Battle of Britain.
Build-A-Bear Workshop - Westminster Bridge
0.3 km
Create your own cuddly companion in this vibrant, family-friendly toy workshop by the Thames at County Hall.
The London Dungeon
0.3 km
Step into London’s darkest history with live actors, thrilling rides, and immersive storytelling in the heart of the South Bank.
London Eye Ticket Office
0.3 km
Discover London's skyline from the iconic London Eye, an unmissable experience offering breathtaking views of the city's landmarks and vibrant atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
OKAN South Bank
0.3 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
0.3 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
The Archduke
0.6 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
0.6 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
wagamama southbank
0.6 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Strada Southbank
0.6 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
Southbank Centre Food Market
0.7 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering diverse global cuisines in a vibrant riverside setting.
The Garden
0.7 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.7 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.7 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
0.7 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Ma La Sichuan
0.8 km
Experience authentic, boldly spiced Sichuan cuisine in the heart of Westminster with vibrant flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Sapori
0.8 km
Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine with generous portions and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Westminster, London.
The Pem
0.8 km
Elegant modern British dining in Westminster, honoring heritage with exquisite seasonal menus and refined ambiance.
Osteria dell'Angolo
0.8 km
Classic Italian flavors and fresh pasta in a warm, elegant Westminster setting with attentive service and a visible kitchen.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Browns of London
0.1 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.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
0.3 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.3 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
0.3 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
0.5 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Westminster Abbey Shop
0.5 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.6 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.
The Giftree London
0.7 km
Discover London's soul in souvenirs, crafts, and conveniences at this Lambeth gem—unique gifts, luggage storage, and local flair await.
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.
Crest of London Ltd
0.8 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
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.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
1.2 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
Floral Street
1.2 km
Contemporary floral fragrances crafted with purpose, sustainability, and joy in the heart of London.
Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
1.2 km
London’s oldest family-run wine merchant since 1698, blending royal tradition with expert wine and spirits in a historic Pall Mall setting.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
1.2 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.3 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
Le Champagne Bar
0.3 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
Primo Bar, London
0.4 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.
All Bar One Waterloo
0.4 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
0.4 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.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
0.5 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.
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
0.5 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.5 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Westminster Arms
0.5 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.
The Spy Bar
0.6 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Two Chairmen
0.7 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
0.7 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
0.7 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
Old Shades
0.7 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
Blue Boar Pub
0.7 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty British classics in a cozy, historic setting near Abbey and Parliament—perfect for ales, roasts, and relaxed evenings.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cirque Du Soul
0.4 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.4 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
0.4 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Heaven
0.8 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.
TSQ Club
0.9 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.
Proud Late
1.0 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.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.2 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.
Tiger Tiger London
1.2 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Luxe Club
1.3 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
The Penthouse London
1.3 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Café de Paris
1.3 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
The Scotch of St James
1.3 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.3 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 Ivy Club
1.4 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
1.4 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Gothic Revival
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- 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
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
