Staying in South Bank and Southwark
This is a long stretch of London rather than one compact neighborhood. An address beside Waterloo puts you a substantial walk from an address near London Bridge. Railway viaducts, bridge approaches and large buildings can make an apparently short route less direct. Check your accommodation's nearest crossing and station entrance before judging distances from the river alone.
At a glance
- Best for
- The river, markets
- At night
- Busy on the riverside
- Getting around
- Waterloo, Southwark, London Bridge
- Price level
- €€€
Tate Modern, the Globe and Borough Market along a riverside walk, with the City across the water.
Good for
- The river, Tate Modern and Borough Market on foot
- Modern hotels with larger rooms at mid-range prices
- Jubilee line links to Westminster and the City
Think twice if
- Your priority is theater and a late dinner in the West End
- You want a quiet street and the room faces the busy riverside path
How South Bank and Southwark compares with the rest of London
What is near South Bank and Southwark
Gabriel's Wharf
About 10 minutes east of Waterloo station, this small riverside courtyard makes an easy stop on a walk toward Blackfriars.
Imperial War Museum
Allow about 15 minutes from Waterloo station, heading inland through the streets south of the railway.
Southwark Cathedral
Around 5 minutes from London Bridge station, the cathedral offers a short detour from the busy approaches to Borough Market.
Eating in South Bank and Southwark
Food stalls and takeaway counters are useful for lunch, but seating can be scarce around the river and market. For a sit-down evening meal, look along The Cut near Waterloo or the streets south of London Bridge. Check kitchen hours separately from a venue's closing time.
Getting around from South Bank and Southwark
Waterloo serves the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern and Waterloo & City lines. Southwark is on the Jubilee line, while London Bridge serves the Jubilee and Northern lines. Blackfriars has District and Circle line services, plus a National Rail entrance on the south side of the river.
Hotels in South Bank and Southwark
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Other areas of London
Staying in South Bank and Southwark
How far apart are Waterloo and London Bridge?
Allow about 35 to 45 minutes on foot, depending on the route. Following the river adds opportunities to stop but can be crowded.
Can I enter Blackfriars railway station from the south bank?
Yes. The National Rail station has a south-bank entrance. The Underground station is on the north side of the river.
Does a riverside address guarantee a direct walk?
No. Check the building entrance and access streets, especially near bridges and railway structures. The entrance may face inland despite a river-facing room.