Exploring London’s South Bank

Visitors to London often make a beeline for South Bank and no wonder, as it’s the place to see many iconic parts of London, such as Parliament, the London Eye, and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. Any day of the year, it’sbuzzing with incredible street performers, indulgent places to eat, and attractions for all ages. The best part is South Bank’s accessibility, with Waterloo Station, Blackfriars, and Charing Cross underground and overground trains all within short walking distance.

Classics for Kids (and Adults)

Children and those young at heart will find their favorite things to do in London with ease along South Bank. The most popular activity is a ride on the London Eye, a towering ferris wheel that’s 135 meters tall and offers sweeping views of the London skyline. Purchase tickets ahead of time, as this can be one of the most popular attractions in London. Across the way are other kid’s favorites, such as the long-running Shrek’s Adventure show. Kids will love simply walking along South Bank to see the buskers perform hip hop dances, fiddling jam sessions and more. Have a look under the Queen Elizabeth Hall too, where kids and adults alike hang show off their skateboard skills amongst the colorful graffiti.

Contemporary Art and Performance

London is a hub of innovation that embraces the new and wonderful. Take a walk around theTate Modern museum, which is free to the public and houses some inspiring contemporary works. The building, which was once a power station, also has a small balcony on the second floor for a great vantage point over the River Thames. Many theaters are located in London’s West End, but South Bank also boasts some fantastic venues. Dance, drama, and music can all be experienced at the Southbank Centre, where the Queen Elizabeth Hall and Royal Festival Hall are located.

Afternoon Tea with a View

Take advantage of a quintessential British traditions while overlooking the Thames River. There are several places to enjoy a break in the afternoon over fresh brewed teas, buttery scones and some homemade snacks to boot. You can have a distinguished time at the National Theatre with their afternoon tea offering, often inspired by the current performances on stage. The OXO Tower Restaurant as an anti-afternoon tea, which focuses more on boozy libations and innovative bites, such as chocolate canapé with spice. But perfect, traditional afternoon tea with sweeping views of the river is perhaps best at the Library Lounge, which is complete with a tiered offering of finger sandwiches and bubbly.

Marketplace Strolls

Just off the banks of the river are other wonderful experiences to be had in South Bank. Borough Market is the city’s largest gathering place for street food vendors and grocery foodstuffs, drawing millions of visitors each year. Get lost among the stalls, covered in everything from spices and local honey to sangria to-go cups and Egyptian street food. It’s an excellent place to not only pick up some edible London souvenirs, but also sample culinary delights from around the world. Have a pick-me-up at the popular Monmouth Coffee shop, where they’ve perfected the art of a flat white.