South Bank

The Basics

South Bank boasts many of London’s top landmarks, and a number of city sightseeing tours offer the opportunity to explore by foot or boat. The London Eye and the London Dungeon are popular family-friendly attractions, while art enthusiasts flock to the Tate Modern and Tate Britain. Southbank Centre hosts many cultural events across its venues, and the National Theatre, Young Vic, and Old Vic offer affordable and trendy West End alternatives.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Popular with hip locals, culture vultures, and families, the vibrant district offers something for everyone.

• London’s national museums and galleries are free to visit, but shows and special exhibitions charge an entry fee.

• South Bank’s brutalist architecture can lead to big puddles in the rainy months, so it’s a good idea to pack an umbrella and water-repellent shoes.

• The wide, paved riverside paths are wheelchair-friendly and most attractions offer access, though some do have restrictions.

How to Get There

Waterloo Station, nestled in the heart of South Bank, is served by the Jubilee, Bakerloo, and Northern lines, as well as direct National Rail links to Clapham Junction. Westminster, Blackfriars, and Embankment stations are also located nearby. South Bank is easily accessed by river bus and city cruiser, with London Eye and Festival piers serving the area.

When to Get There

As throughout the rest of London, there is always something happening along the South Bank, making it well worth a visit at any time of year. Winter brings Christmas markets and festive decorations, while funfairs and festivals arrive between April and August.

South Bank Through the Ages

Though South Bank as it exists today is a relatively new district, the south bank of the Thames has been an entertainment hub since the Middle Ages. Even in Elizabethan England, it provided a popular escape from heavy regulation in the city, with draws including Shakespeare’s own Globe Theatre. Today, a reconstructed Globe sits farther along the bank, and visitors can catch a show from the traditional standing yard.

Ways to explore

South Bank boasts many of London’s top landmarks, and a number of city sightseeing tours offer opportunities to explore on foot or by boat. The London Eye, London Dungeon, and SEA LIFE® London Aquarium are popular family-friendly attractions, while art enthusiasts flock to the Tate Modern. Southbank Centre hosts many cultural events across its venues, and the National Theatre, Young Vic, and Old Vic offer affordable and trendy alternatives to seeing theater shows in the West End.

Accessibility

Many area attractions are wheelchair accessible. The paved Queen’s Walk beside the River Thames has elevator access at the Golden Jubilee Bridge and step-free access at other points along its length.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Umbrella, reusable drink bottle and coffee cup, contactless payment methods to use the bus

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, season-appropriate jacket and hat

Not allowed

Flying a drone is restricted in some parts of the South Bank, for safety reasons. Check the rules before planning to take drone photos here.

Amenities

Public restrooms with wheelchair access and baby-changing facilities are available at Waterloo tube station.

Address

South Bank is, quite literally, on the South Bank of the River Thames, directly across the water from Westminster. Get there on foot from other central-London attractions, via several bridges, or on public transportation.

Driving

Driving in central London isn’t recommended, due to congestion and the trouble (and cost) of parking. If you must drive, look for parking garages and pay-and-display street parking options throughout the area.

Public transportation

Waterloo Station, in the heart of South Bank, is served by the Jubilee, Bakerloo, and Northern lines, as well as direct National Rail links to Clapham Junction. South Bank is easily accessed by river bus and city cruiser.

Best times to visit

Early morning and evening are good times to stroll the Queen’s Walk along the River Thames and take in city views.

Best days to visit

Visit on weekdays for smaller crowds. Top attractions, such as the London Eye and South Bank’s theaters, tend to be busier on weekends.

Best months to visit

December brings Christmas markets and festive decorations, while funfairs and festivals arrive between April and August.

Special events

Events take place in South Bank year-round—especially at the Southbank Centre—including the Meltdown Music Festival (June), the London Literature Festival (October–November), and the Winter Festival (November–January).