Potters Fields Park: Riverside Green Oasis with Historic Roots by Tower Bridge
A peaceful riverside park by Tower Bridge blending historic pottery heritage with vibrant gardens and iconic London views.
Potters Fields Park is a tranquil urban green space nestled beside the Thames, adjacent to Tower Bridge and London City Hall. Known for its spacious lawns, wildlife-friendly gardens, and spectacular panoramic views of iconic London landmarks, it offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. The park hosts diverse events year-round and features design elements reflecting its historic pottery heritage, making it a unique blend of nature, culture, and history.
A brief summary to Potters Fields Park
- Tooley St, London, SE1 2UD, GB
- +442070366410
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 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 early morning or late afternoon for the best light and quieter atmosphere to enjoy panoramic views of Tower Bridge and the Thames.
- Look for the steel portal entrance on Tooley Street featuring laser-cut Delftware patterns that reference the park’s pottery history.
- Check the park’s event calendar for cultural festivals and live music performances held throughout the year.
- Explore nearby St John’s Churchyard for additional recreational activities like outdoor table tennis and children’s play areas.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take the London Underground to London Bridge station, served by the Jubilee and Northern lines, or Tower Hill station on the District and Circle lines. From either station, it is a 10-15 minute walk to Potters Fields Park. Bus routes 47, 343, and 381 stop near Tooley Street, while routes 42, 78, and 188 serve Tower Bridge Road. Tickets cost around £2.50–£5.00 depending on zones and time of day.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London areas such as Westminster or Covent Garden typically takes 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. Fares usually range from £10 to £20. Note that traffic congestion can increase travel time during peak hours.
-
Walking
For visitors staying nearby, walking to Potters Fields Park is a pleasant option. From London Bridge station, the walk is about 1 km (15 minutes) along mostly flat, paved paths with good accessibility for wheelchairs and strollers.
Potters Fields Park location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Potters Fields Park
Historic Origins and Cultural Legacy
Potters Fields Park sits on land steeped in history, once home to the English Delftware pottery industry dating back to the 17th century. The area’s name appears on maps as early as 1681, linked to the Pickleherring Pottery founded by Dutch potter Christian Willhelm. This pottery was internationally renowned, producing distinctive designs featuring sweeping leaves and foliage, motifs now echoed in the park’s granite seating and decorative steel portal at the Tooley Street entrance. The proximity to the Thames was vital, as clay was transported by ship to fuel the pottery trade. Though pottery production ceased by the early 18th century, the area evolved into a hub for warehouses trading cotton, ivory, and sugar. The Great Fire of Tooley Street in 1861 devastated much of the riverside, reshaping the landscape that would eventually become the park.A Serene Urban Sanctuary by the Thames
Today, Potters Fields Park offers a peaceful refuge from the city's bustle, with expansive lawns, whispering trees, and quiet walkways. The park’s gardens, designed by celebrated landscape architect Piet Oudolf, feature seasonal and medicinal plantings that provide year-round color and shelter for local wildlife. Its riverside granite terraces invite visitors to sit and relax while soaking in sweeping views of Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, the Gherkin, and City Hall. The park’s layout balances open spaces with intimate, contemplative areas, including a tranquil section near Tooley Street designed for quiet reflection.A Hub for Community and Cultural Events
Potters Fields Park is a vibrant venue for a variety of events throughout the year, ranging from food festivals and cultural celebrations to live music performances like the London Band Week. Its open lawns and flexible spaces accommodate large gatherings and smaller community activities alike. The park’s management by a dedicated not-for-profit trust ensures ongoing care and the ability to host events that enrich local cultural life. Nearby St John’s Churchyard complements the park with additional recreational facilities including a children’s play area, outdoor table tennis, and wildlife habitats.Artistic and Architectural Features
The park’s design thoughtfully integrates artistic references to its pottery heritage, notably through a laser-cut steel portal at the Tooley Street entrance adorned with Delftware patterns. This feature pays homage to the historic craftsmanship once central to the area. The planting schemes by Piet Oudolf enhance the park’s aesthetic appeal, creating a dynamic, natural tapestry that changes with the seasons. Granite seating and sunken lawn areas provide both functional and visual interest, making the park a well-crafted blend of historic narrative and contemporary landscape architecture.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
Open 365 days a year, Potters Fields Park welcomes visitors for a variety of activities including picnicking, dog walking, quiet contemplation, and enjoying spectacular riverside views. It is accessible via multiple entrances from Tooley Street, Tower Bridge Road, the Queen’s Walk, and Shad Thames. Public transport options include London Bridge and Tower Hill tube stations, along with several bus routes serving the area. The park offers amenities such as seating areas and nearby food and drink options, making it a comfortable destination for families, solo visitors, and groups alike.Environmental and Community Stewardship
Managed by the Potters Fields Park Management Trust, the park benefits from a focused maintenance and management program that preserves its unique character and ecological value. The gardens support local wildlife, and the park’s design encourages sustainable use and community engagement. Recent refurbishments have enhanced the park’s natural features and added facilities like Blossom Square, a riverside space with cherry trees and outdoor seating, reinforcing its role as a cherished green space within London’s urban fabric.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Wakefield Tower
0.4 km
Medieval royal tower steeped in 13th-century splendor and tragic history within the Tower of London.
Roman Wall of Londinium
0.5 km
Explore the towering Roman Wall at Tower Hill, a striking relic that shaped London’s ancient cityscape and echoes 2,000 years of history.
1 Tower Hl Ter
0.6 km
Historic urban landmark near Tower of London, blending centuries of British heritage with maritime memorials and modern city life.
Tower Hill Memorial
0.6 km
Honouring 35,000 merchant seafarers with no grave but the sea—a dual memorial to two world wars.
Custom House
0.7 km
Historic Custom House on London’s Thames waterfront, a grand 19th-century customs hub echoing centuries of maritime trade and empire.
London Wall
0.7 km
Explore London Wall, an ancient Roman landmark revealing the rich history of Londinium amidst the modern cityscape of London.
Pudding Ln
0.8 km
Explore Pudding Lane, a historic London street where the Great Fire ignited, and discover the rich heritage and vibrant culture of the City.
Monument to the Great Fire of London
0.9 km
An iconic Doric column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering panoramic city views from its historic 311-step climb.
Philpot Lane Mice Sculpture
0.9 km
Discover London’s tiniest public sculpture—two bronze mice locked in a timeless tussle over cheese, steeped in legend and Victorian charm.
Fish St Hill
0.9 km
Discover the historic charm and vibrant culture of Fish St Hill in London, a must-visit destination for tourists exploring the capital's rich heritage.
20 Fenchurch St
0.9 km
Iconic London skyscraper with a unique top-heavy design, featuring the Sky Garden — a free public rooftop oasis with panoramic city views and dining.
St Mary Overie's Dock
0.9 km
Historic riverside dock in London’s Southwark, home to the Golden Hinde replica and steeped in medieval maritime heritage.
Lloyd's of London
1.0 km
A high-tech architectural masterpiece blending tradition and innovation in the heart of London’s financial district.
Mitre Square
1.1 km
Mitre Square: A serene retreat in London’s financial district, blending rich history with beautiful landscapes for an unforgettable city experience.
St Mary Abchurch
1.1 km
Wren's intimate masterpiece crowned by a celestial dome and adorned with Grinling Gibbons' finest carvings.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bridge Theatre
0.1 km
Experience cutting-edge theatre in London’s innovative Bridge Theatre, where flexible design meets immersive performances by the Thames.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
0.1 km
Explore London’s iconic Tower Bridge with panoramic views, historic Engine Rooms, and a unique gift shop celebrating this engineering masterpiece.
Samuel Bourne Bevington Statue
0.1 km
A distinguished bronze tribute to Bermondsey’s first mayor, set near the iconic Tower Bridge in London’s historic South Bank district.
More London Place
0.2 km
A vibrant riverside business and cultural precinct blending modern architecture with iconic Thames views near Tower Bridge.
Tower Bridge
0.3 km
Walk across London’s most famous bridge, explore its high-level walkways and glass floors, and discover the Victorian engineering behind this iconic landmark.
English Grounds
0.3 km
Experience the tranquility and beauty of English Grounds in London, a perfect escape into nature and culture amidst the vibrant city life.
HMS Belfast
0.3 km
Explore nine decks of naval history aboard HMS Belfast, London’s iconic WWII cruiser with stunning Thames views and immersive exhibits.
Hay's Galleria
0.4 km
Historic riverside galleria blending Victorian architecture, vibrant shopping, and iconic Thames views in the heart of London.
Lanthorn Tower
0.4 km
Step into the Lanthorn Tower to explore the medieval royal lodgings and rich history of the Tower of London’s riverside palace.
Southwark Brewing Company
0.4 km
Independent cask ale brewery in a Victorian railway arch, where trains rumble overhead and tradition meets innovation.
Bermondsey St
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant Bermondsey Street in London, a blend of history, culture, and culinary delights that captures the city's unique spirit.
Tower of London
0.5 km
Explore the Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage site, rich in history and home to the Crown Jewels, perfect for all history lovers.
Shad Thames
0.5 km
Historic riverside charm meets modern luxury in Shad Thames, London’s iconic Victorian warehouse quarter by Tower Bridge.
Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula
0.5 km
Historic Tudor chapel within the Tower of London, resting place of executed royalty and a vibrant parish church for over 500 years.
The Crown Jewels
0.5 km
Explore the dazzling Crown Jewels collection, a symbol of British monarchy and history, housed securely within the iconic Tower of London.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Story
0.2 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
La Dame de Pic London
0.7 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
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.
14 Hills
0.9 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
1.3 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
1.3 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Mercato Metropolitano
1.5 km
A vibrant, sustainable community food market in Elephant & Castle offering global flavors, local sourcing, and a lively social atmosphere.
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.
Madison
1.6 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Sea Containers Restaurant
2.1 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Lyle's
2.2 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Nomadic community
2.2 km
A colorful, community-driven urban garden near Brick Lane, blending street art, creativity, and green space in East London’s vibrant cultural scene.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
2.3 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
St. John
2.4 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
2.5 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tower of London Shop
0.4 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Traders Gate
0.6 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.
Borough Yards
1.0 km
Discover Borough Yards, a lively London district blending historic railway arches with cutting-edge shopping, dining, and culture near Borough Market.
The Royal Exchange
1.2 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
1 Poultry
1.3 km
Iconic postmodern office and retail building with vibrant limestone stripes, a colorful atrium, and a rooftop garden overlooking London’s financial district.
Middlesex Textiles
1.4 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Petticoat Lane Market
1.4 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
One New Change
1.6 km
Modern glass landmark with free rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral and London skyline.
Fashion St
1.6 km
A historic East London street where Victorian architecture meets modern creativity, surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and vibrant community life.
Commercial St
1.7 km
Historic East London artery blending industrial heritage, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks in the heart of Spitalfields.
Spitalfields Market
1.7 km
Historic yet vibrant, Spitalfields Market blends East London’s rich heritage with a lively mix of food, art, and shopping all week long.
Bankside Arches Boutique
1.8 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Sclater Street Market
1.8 km
Vintage treasures and eclectic finds in the heart of Shoreditch's bohemian marketplace.
DPUS Designer Outlet
1.9 km
Authentic designer fashion outlet in Shoreditch’s historic Old Truman Brewery, blending luxury style with urban culture and unbeatable prices.
The Brick Lane Vintage Market
1.9 km
Explore the UK’s largest underground vintage market, where fashion history meets East London creativity and every visit promises a unique find.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Nine Lives
0.3 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
The Old School Yard
0.8 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 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 Bootlegger
0.9 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.
Moonshine Saloon
1.2 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 Alchemist Bevis Marks
1.2 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
The Bell
1.3 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
Demon, Wise & Partners
1.3 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
Discount Suit Company
1.4 km
Discover a hidden vintage cocktail bar beneath Spitalfields, blending bespoke drinks with a cozy speakeasy atmosphere in London’s historic tailoring district.
The Astronomer, EC1
1.5 km
A traditional London pub with a cosmic twist, offering hearty pies, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near Liverpool Street.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
1.5 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
Dirty Dicks
1.5 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
1.6 km
Discover Shoreditch’s secret speakeasy behind a fridge door, where quirky vintage charm meets expertly crafted cocktails and lively 80s beats.
The Midnight Apothecary
1.8 km
Discover a magical rooftop bar blending botanical cocktails, fire pits, and historic tunnel tours atop London’s Brunel Museum.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
1.9 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
1.1 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
E1
1.3 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Ministry of Sound
1.6 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
Corsica Studios
1.8 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
Club 701
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
The Hoxton Pony
2.4 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
XOYO LONDON
2.4 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
Trafik
2.5 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
2.6 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
2.6 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
2.6 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
London Best Night Clubs
2.7 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
Basing House - Shoreditch
2.8 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
Proud Late
2.8 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.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
3.1 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
