Best Things to do in Southwark
Tucked along the southern banks of the River Thames, Southwark is an eclectic district where centuries-old history mingles effortlessly with modern city life. From historic landmarks to thriving markets and world-class cultural hubs, Southwark offers an unforgettable slice of London. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an art enthusiast, this area has something to captivate every traveler.
Hi! I’m Kiki, a California native, who left my career in corporate finance to become a world traveler.
The View from The Shard
Dominating London’s skyline, The Shard stands as the city’s tallest building, its gleaming structure piercing the clouds. At 310 meters tall, its observation deck, The View from The Shard, offers an unparalleled perspective of London. On a clear day, you can see up to 40 miles, with iconic landmarks such as the Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the meandering Thames spread before you.
Arrive early or just before sunset for the best light, and don’t forget to linger over a glass of champagne at the top, because no visit to this urban monolith is complete without toasting to the city sprawled out below.
Tate Modern
Tate Modern is more than a gallery—it’s a temple to contemporary art housed within the cavernous walls of a former power station. Its industrial architecture, juxtaposed with works by icons like Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney, creates an arresting atmosphere.
The museum’s permanent collection is free, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring Turbine Hall, an enormous space often filled with large-scale installations that challenge the boundaries of art. For another perspective, head to the gallery’s rooftop terrace for striking views of the Thames and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Borough Market
Just a short walk from The Shard lies Borough Market, a mecca for food lovers and one of London’s oldest markets, with a history dating back over 1,000 years. Here, the air is filled with the enticing aromas of sizzling street food, freshly baked bread, and spices from around the world.
Wander through bustling stalls offering artisanal cheeses, fresh produce, and exotic treats, or indulge in a hearty meal from one of the market’s many street food vendors. Don’t miss the chance to try a classic British dish like fish and chips or opt for international delights like paella or raclette. While weekends can be busy, the vibrant energy of this market is an essential part of the experience.
The Golden Hinde
For a maritime adventure, climb aboard The Golden Hinde, a replica of Sir Francis Drake’s legendary galleon. This isn’t just a static museum piece; it’s an interactive experience that takes you back to the age of exploration.
Children and adults alike will enjoy discovering the cramped living quarters and hearing tales of the ship’s daring circumnavigation of the globe. Docked in Southwark, this floating piece of history offers a rare glimpse into life at sea during the 16th century.
Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre
A step into Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre is a step back into Elizabethan England. This meticulous replica of the original playhouse where the Bard’s works were performed is one of Southwark’s most treasured cultural sites.
Visitors can attend a live performance, where actors bring Shakespeare’s words to life beneath an open sky, just as audiences did centuries ago. Alternatively, join a guided tour to learn about the theatre’s fascinating history and the painstaking effort involved in recreating it. Standing in the yard or sitting on wooden benches, you’ll feel the same raw energy that once inspired Shakespeare’s most enduring works.
Southwark Cathedral
Amid Southwark’s modern vibrancy lies Southwark Cathedral, an oasis of calm and history. This Gothic masterpiece, which dates back to the 12th century, is a stunning example of medieval architecture, with its soaring arches and intricate stained glass windows.
History buffs will appreciate its connection to literary legends, William Shakespeare’s brother Edmund is buried here, and the cathedral has ties to John Harvard, the namesake of Harvard University. Take a quiet moment to explore its peaceful courtyard or reflect inside the ancient stone walls.
HMS Belfast
A stone’s throw from Tower Bridge, HMS Belfast is a floating museum and one of the most important surviving warships of World War II. With nine decks to explore, visitors can delve into the daily lives of sailors who served aboard this historic vessel.
Walk through the ship’s labyrinthine interior to see the engine room, the captain’s bridge, and even the sailors’ mess hall. Interactive exhibits and immersive soundscapes bring history to life, making this an unmissable stop for history lovers and families.
Stroll Over the Millennium Bridge
Spanning the Thames, the Millennium Bridge is a sleek, modern pedestrian crossing that links Southwark to St. Paul’s Cathedral. While its design is contemporary, the bridge offers timeless views.
Pause at the midpoint to soak in the cityscape—the towering dome of St. Paul’s to the north, the industrial-chic Tate Modern to the south, and the sparkling Thames flowing beneath you. Photographers will love capturing the juxtaposition of old and new architecture from this vantage point, especially at dusk when the city lights begin to twinkle.
📍 Location: Southwark, London, England
✈️ How to Reach Southwark:
- By Air: Southwark is accessible from London’s major international airports—Heathrow (25 km west), Gatwick (45 km south), and London City Airport (11 km east). From these airports, public transport options such as trains and buses connect easily to Southwark.
- By Train: Southwark is served by London Bridge Station, a major hub with connections across the UK. St Pancras International and King’s Cross stations also link to Southwark via the Tube or buses.
- By Bus: Local and long-distance buses stop at nearby terminals such as London Bridge, making Southwark accessible from all parts of the city.
- By Car: Driving in Southwark can be challenging due to congestion charges and limited parking. Opt for public transport for convenience.
🕒 Best Time to Visit:
- May to September: Summer brings warm weather and a lively atmosphere in Southwark’s streets, markets, and along the River Thames.
- April and October: Enjoy mild weather and smaller crowds, ideal for sightseeing and photography.
- December: Southwark becomes festive with Christmas markets and twinkling lights, though temperatures are cooler.
🌧️ Low Season:
- November to February: While quieter and budget-friendly, the colder weather requires layers and rain protection. However, the wintry charm of Southwark’s landmarks like Southwark Cathedral and Borough Market makes it worth exploring.
⏳ Ideal Stay:
- 2–3 Days in Southwark will allow you to explore the district’s key attractions such as Borough Market, Tate Modern, and Shakespeare’s Globe. Extend your stay in London to 4–5 days if you wish to explore other areas of the city.
📸 Hidden Gems for Photographers in Southwark:
- Bankside Views: Walk along the Thames Path near Bankside for incredible perspectives of iconic landmarks such as the Millennium Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Tate Modern. This stretch is especially photogenic during golden hour.
- Southwark Cathedral Courtyard: Capture the intricate Gothic architecture and peaceful surroundings of this historic church. Its tucked-away courtyard offers a serene escape from the bustling streets.
- The Golden Hinde: Photograph the life-size replica of Sir Francis Drake’s ship with the Thames as a backdrop, especially at dusk when the lights come on.
- The Blue Market in Bermondsey: A quieter alternative to Borough Market, this local gem offers colorful stalls and a more authentic feel, perfect for candid photography.
- The Hop Exchange: This lesser-known Victorian building, once a hub for the hop trade, features beautiful red-brick architecture and ornate detailing.
- The Thames Under Bridges: Walk along the river under Southwark or London Bridge for unique framing of the cityscape and water reflections, particularly at night.
👟 Pro Travel Tips:
- Avoid peak times: Visit Borough Market and The Shard early in the morning or late afternoon to skip the crowds.
- Use public transport: The Jubilee and Northern lines, along with buses, make navigating Southwark easy and affordable.
- Pack smartly: The weather can change quickly, so wear layers, bring a waterproof jacket, and opt for comfortable shoes for walking.
- Pre-book attractions: Tickets for Shakespeare’s Globe performances or The View from The Shard often sell out, so book in advance to secure your spot.
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