Southwark Cathedral: A Gothic Jewel on the Thames
Discover Southwark Cathedral’s rich history, stunning Gothic architecture, and cultural ties in the heart of London’s historic South Bank.
Southwark Cathedral, located near London Bridge, is a stunning example of English Gothic architecture with origins dating back over 1,400 years. Known for its soaring nave, intricate misericords, and rich history connected to Shakespeare and medieval London, it serves as both a vibrant place of worship and a cultural landmark. Visitors can explore its beautiful stained glass, historic chapels, and enjoy guided tours that reveal its layered past and architectural marvels.
A brief summary to Southwark Cathedral
- London Bridge, London, SE1 9DA, GB
- +442073676700
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit outside service times for full access to all areas and a quieter experience.
- Join a free guided tour to learn about the cathedral’s 900-year history and notable features.
- Explore the Shakespeare Window and Harvard Chapel to connect with London’s literary heritage.
- Check the cathedral’s website for special events like concerts and exhibitions during your visit.
- Take time to enjoy the peaceful churchyard garden and the cathedral café nearby.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground Jubilee or Northern Line to London Bridge Station, approximately a 5-10 minute walk to the cathedral. Trains run frequently throughout the day, and a single journey fare costs around £2.50-£5 depending on the ticket type.
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Bus
Multiple London bus routes stop near London Bridge, including routes 43, 48, 133, and 149. The bus stop is about a 5-minute walk from the cathedral. Bus fares start at £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card.
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Taxi or Ride-share
Taxis and ride-share services like Uber can drop you directly at the cathedral entrance. Travel times vary with traffic but typically range from 10-20 minutes from central London locations. Expect fares starting around £10-£20.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby, walking to Southwark Cathedral is pleasant and accessible. From the Millennium Bridge, it is about a 15-minute walk along the Thames Path with mostly flat terrain and wheelchair access.
Southwark Cathedral location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Southwark Cathedral
Ancient Origins and Historical Significance
Southwark Cathedral stands on one of the oldest Christian sites in London, with origins tracing back to a monastery founded around AD 606. The location near the southern end of the ancient Roman London Bridge has been a spiritual and community focal point for centuries. Initially a wooden church, it was rebuilt in stone by the 9th century and later became a priory under the Diocese of Winchester in the 12th century. The cathedral witnessed significant historical events, including the only royal wedding held here in 1424, when King James I of Scotland married Jane Beaufort.Architectural Grandeur and Artistic Treasures
The cathedral is a splendid example of English Gothic architecture, showcasing pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and soaring stone columns. Its nave, rebuilt in the late 19th century by Sir Arthur Blomfield, creates an impressive sense of space and light. Inside, visitors find intricately carved 15th-century misericords in the choir stalls, each depicting unique biblical and mythical scenes. The Great Screen, erected in 1520, is richly decorated and includes a statue of King Edward VII, commemorating the church’s elevation to cathedral status in 1905.Connections to Literature and Culture
Southwark Cathedral is closely linked to the literary heritage of London, especially William Shakespeare. The Shakespeare Window and monument within the cathedral honor the playwright, who frequented the nearby Globe Theatre. The cathedral also houses the Harvard Chapel, named after John Harvard, founder of Harvard University, who was baptized here. These cultural connections enrich the cathedral’s significance beyond its religious role.Visitor Experience and Community Role
As an active place of worship, Southwark Cathedral hosts daily services, choral evensong, and special concerts, offering visitors a chance to experience its spiritual atmosphere. Guided tours led by knowledgeable volunteers provide insights into its history and architecture. The cathedral is accessible to wheelchair users and offers amenities such as a café, shop, and restrooms. Its serene churchyard with a cloister garden invites quiet reflection amidst the bustle of London.Preservation Amid Urban Change
Despite its ancient roots, Southwark Cathedral is situated in a dynamic urban environment, surrounded by modern developments and the historic Borough Market. The building has undergone extensive Victorian restoration to preserve its Norman interior and Gothic features. Archaeological excavations around the site reveal layers of history, including Roman roads and medieval foundations, highlighting the cathedral’s enduring presence through London’s evolving landscape.Architectural Details and Symbolism
The cathedral’s tower houses a peal of 12 bells, regularly rung for services and special occasions. Decorative corbels featuring human and animal faces adorn the exterior, reflecting both medieval artistry and modern additions that celebrate the local community. Stained-glass windows commemorate wartime sacrifices and biblical stories, filling the interior with colorful light and spiritual symbolism.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Southwark Bridge
0.4 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.
Monument to the Great Fire of London
0.5 km
An iconic Doric column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering panoramic city views from its historic 311-step climb.
Historic England
0.5 km
Discover the rich tapestry of England's history at Historic England, a key organization dedicated to preserving the nation’s architectural treasures.
Custom House
0.6 km
Historic Custom House on London’s Thames waterfront, a grand 19th-century customs hub echoing centuries of maritime trade and empire.
St Michael's Church : Paternoster Royal
0.6 km
Historic Anglican church on College Hill, rebuilt by Wren and linked to Dick Whittington, featuring stunning stained glass and a Hawksmoor spire.
London Stone (remaining part)
0.6 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
0.6 km
A distinguished Grade II listed classical building in London’s financial district, showcasing early 20th-century architectural elegance.
Bermondsey St
0.8 km
Historic South London street blending contemporary art, independent dining, and converted industrial architecture.
Statue of James Henry Greathead
0.8 km
Discover the statue honoring James Henry Greathead, the engineer whose invention shaped London's iconic Underground tunnels.
Queen Victoria St
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Queen Victoria Street, a historic thoroughfare in London, blending modern attractions with rich history.
Trinity Church Square
0.8 km
Discover the serenity of Trinity Church Square in London, a historic oasis of beauty and tranquility amidst the vibrant urban landscape.
Cornhill Fountain
0.8 km
A historic cast-iron water pump outside the Royal Exchange, symbolizing centuries of London's civic pride and public health innovation.
1 Tower Hl Ter
0.8 km
Historic urban landmark near Tower of London, blending centuries of British heritage with maritime memorials and modern city life.
Watling St
0.9 km
Walk the ancient Roman road that shaped British history, from Boudica’s defeat to modern urban life.
8-12 Tower Hill
0.9 km
Discover Tower Hill: Where London's Rich History Meets Modern Culture in the Heart of the City.
Unmissable attractions to see
St Mary Overie's Dock
0.1 km
Historic Thames dock in London’s Southwark, home to the Golden Hinde II and steeped in medieval and maritime heritage.
The London Bridge Experience & London Tombs
0.1 km
Dive into 2,000 years of London’s darkest history and face your fears in the UK’s top horror attraction beneath London Bridge.
Borough Market
0.1 km
Discover Borough Market, London's historic food haven blending ancient tradition with vibrant culinary delights near London Bridge.
Southwark View Point
0.1 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of London’s iconic skyline from the vibrant South Bank’s premier open-air viewpoint.
Winchester Palace
0.1 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Winchester Palace, a medieval bishop’s grand London residence with a stunning rose window by the Thames.
The Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garret
0.1 km
Step into Europe’s oldest surviving surgical theatre, hidden in a church attic, and explore the raw, pre-anaesthetic world of 19th-century surgery and herbal medicine.
Lantern Ghost Tours
0.2 km
Discover London’s haunted past with Lantern Ghost Tours, blending history, ghost stories, and atmospheric pub stops near London Bridge.
Borough Yards
0.2 km
Discover Borough Yards, London’s vibrant fusion of historic railway arches and contemporary shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
The Clink Prison Museum
0.2 km
Step back into England’s darkest prison history at The Clink Prison Museum, where medieval justice and infamous inmates come alive.
George
0.2 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, The George, where centuries of history meet traditional pub charm in a unique Southwark setting.
London Bridge
0.2 km
Discover the historic London Bridge, a stunning architectural marvel offering breathtaking views and a gateway to the heart of London's vibrant culture.
The Shard
0.3 km
Experience breathtaking views of London from The Shard, the tallest building in the UK, where modern architecture meets stunning landscapes.
The View from The Shard
0.3 km
Experience London’s highest panoramic views from the iconic glass spire of The Shard, with stunning 360-degree vistas and luxury amenities.
Crossbones Graveyard & Garden of Remembrance
0.4 km
A poignant garden and memorial in London honoring the outcast dead, transforming a forgotten paupers’ graveyard into a place of remembrance and community.
Menier Chocolate Factory
0.4 km
Experience cutting-edge theatre in a historic 19th-century chocolate factory with intimate performances and rich industrial charm in Southwark, London.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Story
0.9 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
14 Hills
0.9 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
0.9 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Madison
0.9 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Mercato Metropolitano
1.0 km
A vibrant, sustainable community food market in Elephant & Castle offering global flavors, local sourcing, and a lively social atmosphere.
Sea Containers Restaurant
1.2 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
1.4 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
1.4 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
1.5 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
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.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
1.8 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
St. John
1.8 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
The Archduke
1.8 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Wahaca Southbank
1.8 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Southbank Centre Food Market
1.8 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering diverse global cuisines in a vibrant riverside setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tower of London Shop
0.8 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
1 Poultry
0.8 km
Iconic postmodern office and retail building with vibrant limestone stripes, a colorful atrium, and a rooftop garden overlooking London’s financial district.
Traders Gate
0.8 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.
The Royal Exchange
0.8 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
0.9 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
One New Change
1.0 km
Modern glass landmark with free rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral and London skyline.
Bankside Arches Boutique
1.0 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Bermondsey Antique Market
1.1 km
Uncover vintage treasures at London’s oldest antiques market, where history meets haggling every Friday morning in Bermondsey Square.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
1.3 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
1.3 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
1.3 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Sugar And Style
1.4 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
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
1.5 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
Barbican Shop
1.6 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
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.
Nine Lives
0.6 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
The Old School Yard
0.6 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 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.
Demon, Wise & Partners
1.0 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
1.1 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
Lyaness
1.2 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
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.
Black Parrot
1.4 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
Punch Tavern
1.4 km
Historic Victorian Gin Palace on Fleet Street, famed for its Punch magazine heritage and vast gin selection in the heart of London.
The Bell
1.5 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
Dirty Dicks
1.5 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
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.
Discount Suit Company
1.5 km
Discover a hidden vintage cocktail bar beneath Spitalfields, blending bespoke drinks with a cozy speakeasy atmosphere in London’s historic tailoring district.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
0.4 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
1.2 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
1.5 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
1.9 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
1.9 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
1.9 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
E1
2.0 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Proud Late
2.0 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.
London Best Night Clubs
2.1 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
XOYO LONDON
2.2 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
The Hoxton Pony
2.2 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
2.3 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Carwash Nightclub
2.4 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Heaven
2.4 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.
Trafik
2.4 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Day Trip
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
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
