Thames River Guide: Battersea to Lambeth

Park Life

Covering 200 acres, Battersea Park has much to offer. Wander around the scenic lake and gardens, take the kids to the Children's Zoo, check out the outdoor sports facilities or visit the Grade II listed Pump House Gallery.

With the impressive Battersea Power Station looming in the background and the striking Peace Pagoda by the river, the park is a great place to enjoy some peaceful respite from the busy streets.

Tudors to Turner

Tate Britain houses the national collection of British painting from 1500 to the present day, as well as the impressive Turner collection. There's a fascinating programme of talks and events alongside great activities for kids. You can catch music and entertainment as well as the latest exhibition.The gallery is open late on the first Friday of each month,

Kennington Oval

Home to the Surrey County Cricket Club, the Brit Oval at Kennington will appeal to fans of the sport. Coaching sessions are available for children and adults. Check the Surrey Cricket Club website for more details.

At the Brit Oval Cricket Shop you can pick up some top quality cricket equipment - bats, balls, helmets and pads.

Lambeth Palace

Not open to the public, although tours may be arranged by contacting the bookings department, Lambeth Palace has an ancient history. Owned by the archbishops of Canterbury since about 1200, the building reveals multiple layers of architectural styles, from the 13th century crypt to the Tudor gatehouse, with Neogothic additions.

Imperial War Museum

The award-winning Imperial War Museum is housed in the former Bethlehem Hospital for the Insane (Bedlam). It's not just about big guns and tanks however. Many of the exhibits relate to the social impact of wars. Walk through a simulation of a World War I trench or share the dramatic Blitz experience complete with the sounds and smells of London during an air raid. The museum has an interesting collection of paintings from war artists such as Graham Sutherland, Paul Nash and Henry Moore.

Up, Up and Away

Need a bit of a lift? Then how about chartering a helicopter from Battersea Heliport for an extra special sightseeing trip! It's an unbeatable way to see London and will be a trip you never forget. Just think of the photo opportunities!

Eating and Drinking

The Battersea Barge Bistro is an unusual bar and restaurant venue on the river, with the Sunday lunch and live jazz coming highly recommended.

Grumbles, on Churton Street in Pimlico, is a cosy little restaurant with a continental feel and delicious menu. As it's quite small, book ahead to secure a table.

Between Tate Britain and Pimlico Tube station, The White Swan is a handy stopping-off point if you fancy a pint after all that art and culture!

Accommodation

The friendly, family-run Lavender Guest House is a detached Victorian building with lovely gardens and a conservatory for guests' use. Conveniently located near Clapham Junction, it is a short walk from the river and all the amenities.

Nearer the Thames, selected suites at the deluxe Riverbank Park Plaza offer inspiring views of the river. This 4-star hotel has rooms fitted with state-of-the-art facilities.

Getting There

The nearest Tube stations are Pimlico, Vauxhall and Waterloo. Mainline trains go to Vauxhall, Queenstown Road and Battersea Park stations. See our travel section for more information.

Cross the river at Chelsea Bridge, Vauxhall Bridge or Lambeth Bridge.

Explore this Area Further

• Look around Battersea to Lambeth with London Explorer
  
• Look around Battersea with London Explorer
  
• Look around Lambeth with London Explorer