Eye on London - Guide to the South Bank Part I

London from the inside Monday 18th - Sunday 24th September 2017

At a loose end of a way to spend an afternoon, evening or a whole day? Head to the South Bank. It’s less than five minutes walk from Waterloo Station, has more things to do than you could shake a stick at, and has the best views in London. If you’re visiting London for a holiday, the two mile walk from Westminster Bridge to Tower Bridge really is a must do. Here’s some things to look out for and explore on the way…

Westminster Bridge to Hungerford & Golden Jubilee Bridges

Begin your South Bank adventure at Westminster Bridge with Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament looking back across at you. For the best views of Big Ben, the rest of London and the path you’re about to walk - take a trip on the Coca-Cola London Eye, London’s number one paid-for visitor attraction.

On the pier next to the Coca-Cola London Eye, you can board the London Eye River Cruise to see the South Bank from the water. In County Hall, next to the London Eye, you also have three more of London’s top family attractions all in one place - SEA LIFE London Aquarium, the London Dungeon and Shrek’s Adventure! Buy your tickets for two or more attractions and save up to £63 (you also have up to 90 days to use your tickets.)

After you’ve filled your boots with fun around County Hall, relax on Jubilee Gardens, visit the Udderbelly (May-September), Hayward Gallery, or in the evenings head a couple of streets back from the South Bank to non-touristy Lower Marsh for food and drinks.

Hungerford & Golden Jubilee Bridges to Waterloo Bridge

Between the Hungerford & Golden Jubilee Bridges and Waterloo Bridge you’ll walk past the Southbank Centre, Royal Festival Hall and National Theatre. Pop inside for shows, art, exhibitions, bars and cafes. They’re also surrounded by great restaurants and the Southbank Centre has an amazing food market around the back (open Fridays - Sundays, check times.) The South Bank is movie lover’s heaven with the British Film Institute and the BFI IMAX (with the biggest screen in Britain) next to Waterloo Bridge. And don’t miss the skaters and riders at the Southbank Skate Spot and having a nose around the infamous outdoor secondhand and antique book market underneath Waterloo Bridge.

Waterloo Bridge to Blackfriars Bridge

Just behind Waterloo Bridge is the world-class, not-for-profit theatre The Old Vic which attracts big name actors and directors (Kevin Spacey is the artistic director of the theatre).

Keep walking towards Blackfriars Bridge and you’ll find Gabriel’s Wharf next to the London Television Centre. This little area, set back from the river but still with great views, has independent eateries, fair trade shops and affordable artwork.

If you’re looking for something super special, hit the Mondrian Hotel for food, drinks and overnight stays. The hotel is super slick and we’ve lost count of how many awards it’s bars and restaurants have won!

 

Look out for ‘Guide to the South Bank Part II’ on the blog in a few weeks - from Blackfriars Bridge to Tower Bridge.

 

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