London Guide: Ten Things To Do In The South Bank London. The South Bank area is London’s cultural district on the South Side of the River Thames. It also includes Waterloo which has interesting streets to explore. My Ten Things To Do In The South Bank London list features the London Eye, BFI IMAX, OXO Tower Wharf and Leake Street Arches plus more.
Leake Street Arches
Ten Things To Do In The South Bank London List
10 Things To Do In The South Bank London
1. Rotate in the sky on the London Eye
2. Immerse yourself in a movie at the BFI IMAX
3. See a play at the world-class Old Vic or Young Vic theatres
4. Book tickets to a cultural experience
5. Do something touristy with the kids
6. Buy designer products at OXO Tower Wharf
7. Browse independent shops at Gabriel’s Wharf
8. Walk on the South Bank Beach
9. Instagram graffiti at Leake Street Arches
10. Graze the street food stalls and cafes at Lower Marsh Street
Ten Things To Do In The South Bank London Details
London Eye: The Coca-Cola London Eye is the largest cantilevered observation wheel in the world with wonderful views of the capital. Located on the South Bank, SE1 7PB.
London Eye
BFI IMAX: Movie buffs can rejoice at this Odeon BFI IMAX cinema which delivers the perfect sound and viewing experience. Located at 1 Charlie Chaplin Walk, SE1 8XR.
BFI IMAX
Old Vic and Young Vic: If you’re a theatre fan, you really must see a play at one of these venues. They are located close to each other on a lovely little street near Waterloo Station called The Cut. The Young Vic has a good bar and restaurant where you can rub shoulders with actors. Across the road is the Calder Bookshop and Theatre which is well worth visiting if you want to see an independent production.
Old Vic
Cultural venues: See a film at the British Film Institute, watch a play at the National Theatre or enjoy an exhibition or event at the Southbank Centre.
National Theatre
Tourist experiences: If you’re looking for fun with the kids try the Sea Life London Aquarium or Shrek’s Adventure. The London Dungeon is perfect for teenagers. These are all located near the London Eye in the beautiful County Hall building.
Shrek’s Adventure
OXO Tower Wharf: The iconic OXO Tower is home to an array of design studios and shops. Also, check the Bargehouse behind which hosts exhibitions. Located at Barge House Street, SE1 9PH.
OXO Tower Wharf
Gabriel’s Wharf: Very near the OXO Tower Wharf is a lovely little enclave of shops selling gifts, art and fashion items. You can sit down on a wooden carved bench to eat your lunch. There are a few restaurants there. Read my Garbiel’s Wharf Review. Located at 45 Upper Ground, SE1 9PP.
Gabriel’s Wharf
South Bank Beach: Opposite Gabriel’s Wharf you will find Ernie’s Beach, named after a local Waterloo resident. You will probably spot an artist creating sand sculptures. Nearby is a wooden pier structure which gives you a vantage point for photographs of the beach and the OXO Tower.
South Bank Beach
Leake Street Arches: Located off Lower Marsh Street and York Road you will see an entrance to a famous graffiti tunnel and arches which is completely covered in street art. It is also home to restaurants, bars and exhibition spaces. Check out The Vaults for immersive theatre and arts. Read my Leake Street Arches Review.
The Vaults
Lower Marsh Street: I love this little street which has cute independent cafes, coffee houses and restaurants. There is a market selling food and other bits and pieces during the week and on Saturdays.
Lower Marsh Street
Ten Things To Do In The South Bank London Information
Travel to Waterloo Station and walk from there to reach the South Bank. As you saunter along the South Bank you will see plenty of food trucks and street food stalls. There is likely to be a busker playing the guitar and singing plus street performers. I can recommend a couple of restaurants for special occasions. Read my OXO Tower Restaurant Review and Skylon Restaurant Review. Enjoy your visit to the beautiful part of London! For more information go to the South Bank London Website, We Are Waterloo Website and the Waterloo Festival Website.
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London.
