Jubilee Gardens: A Riverside Oasis on London’s South Bank
A serene and family-friendly riverside garden offering iconic London views and a vibrant playground on the South Bank.
Jubilee Gardens is a beautifully landscaped park located on London’s vibrant South Bank, nestled between Westminster and Waterloo Bridges. Established in 1977 to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s Silver Jubilee, this green urban haven features mature trees, colorful flowerbeds, meandering pathways, and a popular adventure playground for children. Open year-round and free to enter, it offers iconic views of the London Eye and the Thames, making it a peaceful retreat amid the city’s bustle.
A brief summary to Jubilee Gardens
- Belvedere Rd, London, SE1 7PG, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 3 hours
- Free
-
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 the adventure playground early in the day for more space and quieter playtime.
- Bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic on the lawns with views of the London Eye and Thames.
- Capture stunning photos during golden hour when the sunlight enhances the iconic cityscape.
- Use nearby Waterloo or Westminster stations for convenient public transport access.
- Check the playground’s seasonal opening hours and possible short-notice closures for maintenance or weather.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
London Underground
Take the London Underground to Waterloo Station, served by the Jubilee, Northern, Bakerloo, and Waterloo & City lines, or Westminster Station on the Jubilee, District, and Circle lines. Both stations are within a 10-15 minute walk to Jubilee Gardens. Tickets range from £2.50 to £6.00 depending on travel zones and time of day.
-
Bus
Multiple bus routes serve the South Bank area near Jubilee Gardens, including routes 12, 76, 77, 148, 159, 211, 381, 453, and 507. Buses run frequently during the day, with night bus options available. A single fare costs approximately £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card.
-
Walking
If you are staying nearby, Jubilee Gardens is accessible on foot via Belvedere Road or The Queen’s Walk along the riverfront. Walking times vary but expect 10-20 minutes from Waterloo or Westminster stations. The terrain is flat and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
-
Taxi or Ride-Hailing
Taxis and ride-hailing services can drop you off directly at Jubilee Gardens. Travel times depend on traffic but typically range from 10 to 25 minutes from central London locations. Fares vary widely, usually between £8 and £20.
Jubilee Gardens location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Jubilee Gardens
Origins and Historical Significance
Jubilee Gardens was created in 1977 to mark the Silver Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II, transforming a once featureless grass patch into a cherished public space. Before becoming a garden, the site hosted the Festival of Britain’s Dome of Discovery in 1951 and later served as a car park. The park underwent a major redevelopment in 2012 and a further transformation completed in 2015, coinciding with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, resulting in a world-class landscaped garden that celebrates both history and nature in central London.Landscape and Design Features
The gardens span a generous area of lush lawns, flowerbeds, and mature trees such as English Oaks, Common Beech, and Bald Cypress. Meandering granite pathways and gently undulating lanes invite visitors to explore and relax. The planting scheme evokes the grandeur of traditional Royal Parks, with vibrant seasonal flowers and well-maintained greenery creating a serene urban oasis. Seating edges and open lawns provide ample space for picnics, quiet contemplation, or casual socializing.Family-Friendly Adventure Playground
A standout feature of Jubilee Gardens is its adventure playground designed for children up to 11 years old. Located behind the London Eye, the playground offers a variety of climbing structures, sensory experiences, and interactive elements that cater to children of differing abilities. Open daily with seasonal hours, it provides a safe and engaging environment for families to enjoy active play amid the garden’s natural beauty.Location and Iconic Views
Situated on Belvedere Road along the Thames riverfront, Jubilee Gardens offers spectacular views of London landmarks including the London Eye, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament. The park’s riverside setting makes it a perfect spot for photography, especially during golden hour when the city’s skyline is bathed in warm light. Its proximity to major transport hubs like Waterloo and Westminster stations enhances accessibility.Community Stewardship and Accessibility
Managed by the Jubilee Gardens Trust, a local charity comprising residents, businesses, and landowners, the park is maintained as a safe, clean, and welcoming space open 24 hours a day. The trust relies on grants and donations to sustain the gardens. Facilities include wheelchair-accessible toilets nearby, and the gardens are dog-friendly with dogs required to be on leads. The park is free to enter and supports a range of community events, ensuring it remains a vibrant part of London’s cultural fabric.Visitor Experience and Seasonal Highlights
Visitors can enjoy year-round access to the gardens, with the playground’s opening hours varying seasonally. The park is ideal for picnics, riverside strolls, and quiet relaxation away from the city noise. It also serves as a venue for local events and festivals, adding to its lively atmosphere. Weekday mornings offer a particularly peaceful experience, while weekends and summer months see more activity. The gardens’ natural beauty and iconic backdrop make it a memorable destination for families, solo travelers, and couples alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
County Hall
0.2 km
Historic Edwardian Baroque landmark on London’s South Bank with iconic river views, cultural venues, and rich civic heritage.
South Bank Lion
0.4 km
Majestic 1837 Coade stone lion guarding Westminster Bridge, symbolizing London’s resilience and rich heritage.
Chindit Memorial
0.4 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the daring Chindit special forces and their leader Major General Orde Wingate’s legacy.
The Gurkha Soldier Statue
0.5 km
A solemn tribute to the fearless Gurkha soldiers guarding Britain’s legacy on Horse Guards Avenue.
Royal Tank Regiment Memorial Statue
0.5 km
A commanding bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring the bravery and teamwork of the Royal Tank Regiment’s WWII Comet tank crews.
Waterloo Bridge
0.5 km
Waterloo Bridge, London’s elegant Thames crossing, famed for its wartime women builders and breathtaking panoramic city views.
Cleopatra's Needle
0.5 km
An ancient Egyptian obelisk on London's Thames Embankment, bridging millennia of history and mystery in the heart of the city.
Southbank Boardwalk
0.5 km
Experience the charm of London's Southbank Boardwalk, a serene escape with stunning river views, vibrant culture, and lush gardens.
Westminster Bridge Rd
0.6 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.
Major-General Lord Cheylesmore Monument
0.6 km
A serene stone tribute in Victoria Embankment Gardens honoring Major-General Lord Cheylesmore’s military and civic legacy.
The Women of World War II
0.6 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring over seven million British women’s vital roles during World War II.
York Watergate
0.6 km
Discover the York Watergate, a rare 17th-century gateway marking the old Thames riverside and London's vanished aristocratic waterfront.
The Cenotaph
0.6 km
Britain’s national war memorial in Whitehall, a solemn tribute to the fallen of the World Wars and later conflicts.
Big Ben
0.6 km
Discover the iconic Elizabeth Tower and its famous bell, Big Ben, a timeless symbol of London's heritage and British culture.
Henry Fawcett Monument
0.6 km
A serene Victorian fountain memorializing Henry Fawcett’s pioneering spirit in social reform and women’s suffrage, nestled in tranquil Embankment Gardens.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Queen’s Walk
0.1 km
A scenic riverside promenade along the Thames connecting London’s iconic landmarks and vibrant cultural hubs.
lastminute.com London Eye
0.1 km
Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of London’s iconic skyline from the towering lastminute.com London Eye on the South Bank.
London Eye Ticket Office
0.1 km
Discover London's skyline from the iconic London Eye, an unmissable experience offering breathtaking views of the city's landmarks and vibrant atmosphere.
30 The Queen's Walk
0.2 km
South Bank's riverside food and entertainment hub beneath Hungerford Bridge, where street food, craft beer, and live music meet the Thames.
Build-A-Bear Workshop - Westminster Bridge
0.2 km
Create your own cuddly companion in this vibrant, family-friendly toy workshop by the Thames at County Hall.
The London Dungeon
0.2 km
Step into London’s darkest history with live actors, thrilling rides, and immersive storytelling in the heart of the South Bank.
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.
Southbank Centre Food Market
0.2 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering global flavors behind the Royal Festival Hall.
Royal Festival Hall
0.2 km
A historic riverside concert hall and cultural beacon on London’s South Bank, blending iconic architecture with world-class performances.
Shrek's Adventure London
0.3 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.
Southbank Centre
0.3 km
A vibrant riverside cultural complex in London offering world-class music, art, and festive experiences year-round.
Hungerford Bridge and Golden Jubilee Bridges
0.3 km
Iconic Thames crossing blending Victorian railway heritage with sleek cable-stayed footbridges and stunning panoramic London views.
SEA LIFE London Aquarium
0.3 km
Dive into London’s premier marine world with over 500 species, immersive underwater tunnels, and inspiring conservation efforts at SEA LIFE London Aquarium.
The Graffiti Tunnel
0.3 km
London’s largest legal graffiti gallery beneath Waterloo Station, where street art thrives in a constantly evolving urban canvas.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
0.3 km
Experience the best of London's nightlife with laughter and drinks at The Boat Show Comedy Club, set in the unique Tattershall Castle.
Essential places to dine
Ping Pong Southbank
0.2 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
The Archduke
0.2 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
wagamama southbank
0.2 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Strada Southbank
0.2 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
Troia Southbank
0.2 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
OKAN South Bank
0.2 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
0.3 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
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.
The Northall
0.5 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
The Garden
0.5 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.6 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.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.7 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
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.
Rules
0.8 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
0.9 km
Savor expertly crafted flat iron steaks in a historic Covent Garden setting, complete with rustic charm and a signature ice cream treat.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
0.1 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
0.1 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.2 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.
Browns of London
0.4 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.
Gifts of London
0.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.6 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
0.7 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Sugar And Style
0.7 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
Crest of London Ltd
0.7 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
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.
j-me original design ltd
0.8 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
0.8 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)
0.8 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Westminster Abbey Shop
0.9 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.9 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Le Champagne Bar
0.1 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.1 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
All Bar One Waterloo
0.2 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
0.2 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
0.2 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.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
0.2 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
0.2 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
0.3 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
Primo Bar, London
0.3 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.
The Understudy
0.5 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.
Gordon's Wine Bar
0.6 km
Step into London's oldest wine bar, where history, candlelight, and award-winning wines create an unforgettable cellar experience.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.6 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
The Spy Bar
0.6 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
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.
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cirque Du Soul
0.2 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.2 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
0.3 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Heaven
0.6 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.
Proud Late
0.7 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.
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.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.1 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.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.1 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 Penthouse London
1.2 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
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.
Café de Paris
1.2 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
Luxe Club
1.2 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.2 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
The Ivy Club
1.2 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
The Roxy
1.3 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
- 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
- Colorful Backdrops
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Family Friendly
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly