Old London City Hall (Southwark)

The basics

Instantly recognizable for its bubble shape, glass facade, and spiral staircase, London City Hall (Southwark) remains one of the capital’s most distinctive buildings. Unveiled in 2002, and created by one of the city’s leading architecture firms, the landmark was designed to be sustainable and energy-efficient.

Given its position overlooking the Thames, London City Hall (Southwark) can be glimpsed during numerous river cruises and boat tours. It also features on walking tours along the Thames’ southern bank, and is easy to discover independently too.

Things to know before you go

• London City Hall (Southwark) is currently under renovation and closed to the public.

• The new City Hall in Newham is open to the public and includes an on-site café—London's Kitchen Café.

How to get there

To visit London City Hall (Southwark) by public transportation, take the Northern or Jubilee lines—or mainline trains—to London Bridge station. The landmark is also served by the #42, #47, #78, #381, and RV1 bus lines, and can be reached by riverboat, bike, on foot, or by car.

When to get there

In December 2024, Southwark Council approved plans to repurpose the building into offices and a retail center. London City Hall (Southwark) is currently under renovation, so it remains off-limits to the public.

The Scoop

Located just adjacent to London City Hall (Southwark), the Scoop is a sunken, concrete amphitheater. It hosts free, outdoor theatrical performances from June–August, as well as film screenings, televised games, and more.

Ways to explore

You’ll have to wait to see the Old London City Hall transform into its biodiverse alter ego—redevelopment work started in 2025 and will take at least a few years to complete. In the meantime, admire the landmark on a walking or bike tour along the Thames, while gliding past on a boat cruise, or as you drive over Tower Bridge. Hop-on hop-off bus tours stop nearby, and the quirky landmark is often visited on architecture and photography tours.

Don’t miss The Scoop, the sunken open-air amphitheater outside the Old London City Hall, which hosts free events throughout the year.

Accessibility

The area around London Old City Hall is flat and accessible for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility. The Scoop is also accessible.

Age limits

None.

What to pack

Camera, reusable water bottle, sunscreen, umbrella

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing

Not allowed

The former London City Hall is closed to the public.

Amenities

Bars, restaurants, public restrooms, drinking water fountains, free Wi-Fi along the waterfront

Address

The Old London City Hall is beside the River Thames, close to Tower Bridge and opposite the Tower of London. It’s easy to reach on foot or via public transport.

Driving

There’s a reason Londoners take the tube—driving in London is slow, expensive, and best left to the taxi drivers. If you choose to drive, you must pay the daily Congestion Charge fee and follow Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) restrictions. The closest parking garage is Q-Park Tower Bridge Car Park.

Public transportation

The closest tube and train station is London Bridge, which is served by the Northern line, Jubilee line, and mainline trains; it’s a 5-minute walk from the station. You can also ride the Thames Clipper ferry to London Bridge City Pier, about a 7-minute walk from the Old London City Hall, or take buses 47 or 343 from central London.

Best times to visit

Commuter periods (7am to 9am, and 4pm to 6pm) tend to see the most foot traffic along the river. A sunrise visit will be your best bet for a crowd-free photo, but mid-afternoon can be quiet, too.

Best days to visit

There’s usually something happening by the riverside on weekends; come mid-week for a quiet stroll and photo opportunities. If you want to combine it with a visit to nearby Borough Market, remember that the market is closed on Mondays.

Best months to visit

The waterfront area around Old City Hall is liveliest from July through August, and from November to December during the festive period.

Special events

The Old London City Hall serves as a backdrop to the Summer by the River (June to August) and Winter by the River (November to early January) festivals, which feature an open-air market and street entertainment. Look out for film and sports screenings, music, and theater events held throughout the year at The Scoop.