Waterloo Bridge

The basics

Waterloo Bridge is an ideal vantage point for admiring some of London’s most recognizable landmarks; from this elevated perch, you can see the London Eye, Big Ben, the Palace of Westminster, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the sleek skyscrapers of Canary Wharf. Waterloo Bridge is featured on a wide range of central London sightseeing excursions, ranging from riverside walking tours and night outings to hop-on hop-off bus rides and private adventures in London black cabs.

Things to know before you go

• There are public restrooms on the South Bank side of Waterloo Bridge.

• While the views from the bridge are spectacular, it’s often hailed as one of London’s least attractive bridges, as it’s a concrete structure with no intricate features.

• Be mindful of your valuables when walking over the bridge when it's crowded.

• Waterloo Bridge is wheelchair accessible.

How to get there

Waterloo Bridge is a 10-minute walk from the bustling London Waterloo station, where you can catch National Rail services and London Underground lines such as Waterloo & City, Jubilee, Northern, and Bakerloo. On the other side of the bridge is Temple station, which is served by the Circle and District lines.

When to get there

Waterloo Bridge is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so there isn’t a bad time to visit. However, London’s riverside attractions look particularly fabulous after dark when they’re all illuminated—grab dinner or catch an evening performance on the South Bank to soak up the capital's supercharged views.

What to see and do on Southbank

South Bank is a cluster of culture right on the River Thames, so it’s a must-visit for lovers of theater, literature, and museums. Highlights of the promenade include the National Theatre, which hosts almost daily performances; BFI Southbank, home to first-class cinema screens; the Hayward Gallery, which exhibits contemporary art; and the Southbank Center, a hot spot for performing arts.