The Southbank has become synonymous with the city: providing the backdrop to New Year’s celebrations, postcards and many a selfie. Head down to London Bridge and walk around Borough Market, The Golden Hinde, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and The Tate Modern. Alternatively head to Waterloo and walk down the river to explore the National Theatre skateboard park, BFI and The London Eye.
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Top of our list of amazing things to do in Southbank is the famous London Eye. The London Eye is Europe’s tallest ferris wheel at 135m. A trip on the London Eye is truly captivating, a ‘must-do’ and has been London’s number one visitor experience for over a decade. From inside one of the Eye’s capsules, you can see all of London laid out before you. On a clear day the view extends 40km out of the city to Windsor Castle. Just don’t go if you’re scared of heights!

Mon-Sun:11:00-18:00

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220 reviews

Next on our list of the best things to do in Southbank is a wonderful cinema. Located right on the Thames, the BFI Southbank boasts an impressive array of classic and contemporary films in a stunning setting. The bar especially is worth checking out, and the plush seats inside the theatre make a visit to the BFI a real treat.
You can find out more about Southbank on our amazing London Walking Tour!

See Website for Show Times

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Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre is dedicated to the performance and exploration of Shakespeare’s plays. The original theatre was built in 1599 but was destroyed by a fire in 1613, rebuilt in 1614, then demolished during the Civil War in 1644. It was constructed on what was then the outskirts of the city: inhabiting a liminal space between the civil society of the town and the lawless depravity of the countryside. This is a reflection of playmaking itself, which was viewed less as an art-form, and more as a dangerous means of rabble rousing.
The modern Globe Theatre was reconstructed in 1997, with patronage from the legendary actor and director, Sam Wanamaker. It is situated about 230 metres away from the original site. You can book daily tours around the theatre or go along to watch a show. We would highly recommend the Swan Bar and Restaurant next door for a meal and drink whilst digesting the show afterwards.

Open Daily 9am-5pm

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One of the best things to do on the Southbank is Borough Market. Borough Market is one of the best markets in London and is London’s worst kept secret. In recent years it has become the undisputed haven for hipster-foodies and enthralled tourists alike. Nestled close to London bridge, you’d be forgiven for thinking it doesn’t look very appetising at first glance. Yet below its grimy facade lies a haven of superb culinary exploits.
From scones to bratwurst, from jerk chicken to chow mien; Borough Market hosts a wide range of international cuisine. You can find anything you can think of: fresh bread, cheeses, pickles, chutneys, jams, oysters, hot dogs, burgers, paella, falafel, fish&chips, pasta, noodles, local beers, juices, pastries and cakes. Aside from the market stalls, there are also plenty of cafes and restaurants to sit down in.


Opening Hours:
Monday: 10am-5pm Limited Market
Tuesday: 10am-5pm Limited Market
Wednesday: 10am-5pm Full Market
Thursday: 10am-5pm Full Market
Friday: 10am-5pm Full Market
Saturday: 10am-6pm Full Market
Sunday: Closed

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The rooftop OXO Tower Restaurant, Bar and Brasserie has proved a dazzling success since opening in 1996. The iconic restaurant, lively brasserie and unique bar all boast stunning views across the Thames and the City of London with a 250-foot terrace and floor-to-ceiling windows.
OXO Tower Restaurant is elegant and iconic, offering a seasonal British menu, a wine list of over 800 wines and a fantastic traditional afternoon tea. OXO Tower Brasserie offers all-day dining from a bold and modern British menu, and its open kitchen and live jazz performances create an irresistibly buzzy atmosphere. OXO Tower Bar presents a cutting-edge, ever-evolving list of cocktails and fantastic snacking, lunch and weekend brunch options.
You can find out more about Southbank on our amazing London Walking Tour.

Sun 12:00 – 22:30, Mon – Thu 12:00 – 23:00, Fri – Sat 12:00 – 00:00

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Last but certainly not least on our list of the best things to do on the Southbank is a real gem. The Hayward Gallery offers a changing program of national and international exhibits along with educational activities, tours, lectures and workshops related to each showing. The architecture of the building is worth a visit in and of itself – showcasing some of the best examples of brutalism anywhere in London.
You can find out more about Southbank on our amazing London Walking Tour!

Opening hours: Daily: Thu 11:00 – 21:00, Fri-Wed: 11:00 – 19:00

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