Things to do in South Bank & Waterloo: A complete area guide

Standing proudly above the river Thames, the London Eye has become one of London's most iconic landmarks and a defining feature of the city's skyline.

Step inside one of its glass observation capsules and enjoy ever-changing panoramic views across the city. As the wheel slowly rises above the river, look out for famous sights including Big Ben, St Paul's Cathedral, Buckingham Palace and the city's striking modern skyscrapers.

We especially love visiting the London Eye after dark, when London's streets, bridges and landmarks sparkle below. Watching the city transform into a glittering sea of lights makes for one of the most memorable viewpoints in the capital and a particularly magical way to experience the skyline.

Best for: First-time visitors and unforgettable London views.
Good to know: Check out our London Eye visiting guide for interesting facts, best time to visit, tips and more! Or, see the landmark from the water on the London Eye river cruise.

Tucked away beneath the platforms of Waterloo Station, Leake Street Arches is London's largest legal graffiti space and one of the area's most colourful hidden gems.

Famed for its ever-changing street art, this vibrant tunnel is a living outdoor gallery where bold murals, striking installations and creative expression cover almost every available surface. Beyond the artwork, you'll also find independent bars, entertainment venues and immersive event spaces tucked within the atmospheric railway arches.

Take a wander through this free-to-visit urban canvas and watch talented artists at work as they transform blank walls into eye-catching masterpieces. Some artworks remain for months, while others can disappear within days or even hours, replaced by fresh creations from new artists. The result is a constantly evolving space where no two visits are ever quite the same.

Best for: Street art lovers and unique London experiences.
Good to know: After gazing at the striking murals, we recommend visiting Mamuśka! for authentic Polish cuisine, or challenge friends to a board game at Draughts Waterloo.

Perched above the Southbank Centre, the Queen Elizabeth Hall Roof Garden is one of South Bank's best hidden gems, offering a tranquil escape from the buzz of the riverside below.

Climb the venue's distinctive yellow staircase and you'll discover this free-to-visit rooftop retreat, where colourful wildflowers, lush planting and quiet seating areas create an unexpected oasis in the heart of central London. Take a moment to relax among the greenery while enjoying sweeping views across the city's skyline and the river Thames.

Stop by the Roof Garden Bar & Kitchen for a refreshing drink or tuck into freshly grilled barbecue dishes while soaking up the views and sunshine.

Best for: Hidden-city discoveries, relaxed afternoons and rooftop views.
Good to know: For step-free access to the roof garden, go to the Welcome Desk on Level 2 of the Royal Festival Hall for assistance.

Step inside a real-life courtroom and become part of the drama at Witness for the Prosecution, the acclaimed adaptation of Agatha Christie's gripping murder mystery staged within the historic surroundings of County Hall.

This award-winning production follows the sensational trial of Leonard Vole, who stands accused of murdering a wealthy widow. As the prosecution and defence go head-to-head, shocking witness testimonies and unexpected twists keep audiences guessing right up until the final verdict.

What makes this experience truly unique is its extraordinary setting. Performed inside a former courtroom, the production blurs the line between theatre and reality from the moment you enter the building. Seated beneath imposing wood-panelled walls and surrounded by the atmosphere of a genuine judicial chamber, you'll feel less like an audience member and more like a participant in one of London's most talked-about murder trials.

Best for: Theatre lovers, Agatha Christie fans and anyone looking for a memorable evening of mystery, suspense and intrigue.
Good to know: For the ultimate immersive experience, book one of the VIP Jury Seats, placing you at the heart of the action and closer than ever to the unfolding courtroom drama.

Theatre lovers won't want to miss a visit to The Old Vic, one of London's most celebrated theatres and a cultural cornerstone of the Waterloo area.

With more than 200 years of history behind its grand façade, this legendary venue has earned a reputation for producing world-class theatre, from beloved festive favourites such as A Christmas Carol to bold revivals and groundbreaking new productions. Its stage has welcomed some of the biggest names in British acting, while theatre greats including Judi Dench and Maggie Smith appeared here early in their illustrious careers.

Whether you're a devoted theatregoer or simply looking to experience a piece of London's rich cultural heritage, an evening at The Old Vic is always something special. Expect powerful performances, exceptional storytelling and an atmosphere that keeps audiences returning time and again.

Best for: Theatre fans, culture seekers and a touch of celebrity spotting.
Good to know: Before the curtain rises, stop by Backstage, The Old Vic's cafe and bar, for a coffee, expertly crafted cocktail or a bite from the popular pre-theatre menu. It's the perfect place to soak up the venue's historic atmosphere before the show begins.

For a sightseeing experience with a thrilling twist, hop aboard Thames Rockets speedboat and see London's famous landmarks from a completely different perspective.

Cruise past some of London's most iconic sights as expert guides share fascinating stories and surprising facts about the city. Then, just when you think it's a traditional river tour, the engines roar into action and the speedboat races along the Thames, delivering an exhilarating ride complete with music, twists and plenty of adrenaline.

We love this entertaining and fast-paced experience on the Thames, with our highlights being racing along the Thames during the speed zone and finding out quirky fun facts about London.

Best for: Adventure lovers and anyone looking to swap traditional sightseeing for something a little more exciting.
Good to know: Front-row seats offer some of the most exhilarating views on the river.

Looking for a place where craft beer, street food and friendly competition come together under one roof? Head to BrewDog Waterloo, one of the city’s largest entertainment venues, located beneath the iconic arches of Waterloo Station.

Spread across two floors, this vast social hub packs in far more than pints. Challenge friends to a game of duckpin bowling, test your aim with interactive darts, race down the venue's slide or cool off with a treat from the indoor ice cream van. Beer enthusiasts can also check out the on-site microbrewery to see where some of BrewDog's freshest pours are made.

The venue hosts a packed calendar of events throughout the week, from lively quiz nights and Beer School tasting experiences to crowd-pleasing Bottomless Wings Wednesdays.

Best for: Groups of friends, families, after-work drinks and rainy-day entertainment.
Good to know: Sports fans are well catered for, with 17 screens broadcasting major fixtures and tournaments throughout the year, including Premier League football, Formula One, rugby and NFL games.

One of the easiest and most relaxing ways to experience South Bank is from the water. Hop aboard a sightseeing cruise and glide along the Thames, taking in unrivalled views of London's landmark-packed riverside. Along the way, spot famous sights including the Houses of Parliament, St Paul's Cathedral, Tower Bridge and many more.

Settle into the comfortable saloon or head to the open-air upper deck for the best views as you cruise through the heart of the capital. An entertaining onboard commentary brings the city's history and landmarks to life, while the cafe-bar serves drinks and snacks for a leisurely journey along the river.

With the option of one-way, return or 24-hour tickets, it’s a great way to see the city at your pace.

Best for: First-time visitors, families and anyone wanting to see London's landmarks from the water.
Good to know: We recommend marking a special occasion with a London dinner cruise, complete with a glass of fizz and live music as you wine, dine and dance the night away.

Kids will love visiting SEA LIFE London Aquarium, home to thousands of fascinating marine creatures.

Explore the wonders of the underwater world and come face-to-fin with majestic sharks, graceful rays and colourful tropical fish as you make your way through themed zones and immersive ocean habitats.

Wander through the glass Ocean Tunnel and see marine life swoop and swim all around you, watch playful penguins going about their day and discover creatures from some of the world's most remarkable aquatic environments – right in the heart of London.

There’s plenty to keep all ages entertained, with interactive exhibits, daily feeding sessions and mini film stops to learn all about ocean conservation.

Best for: Families, animal lovers and rainy-day adventures.
Good to know: Booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak times like school holidays and weekends.

For something a little more thrilling, we recommend visiting The London Dungeon to uncover the city’s darker side.

This spine-tingling experience takes you through more than 1,000 years of London’s grisly past, coming face-to-face with dramatic storytelling, live actors and a thrilling ride.

Wander through atmospheric streets and encounter unexpected surprises as some of London’s most infamous tales and notorious characters are brought to life here, from Jack the Ripper to Sweeney Todd and Guy Fawkes.

Best for: Thrill-seekers, teenagers and fans of immersive experiences.
Good to know: While it's packed with laughs, jump scares and theatrical effects make it better suited to older children and adults.

Tucked behind the Royal Festival Hall you’ll find the bustling Southbank Centre Food Market, one of our favourite places to grab a bite to eat in South Bank.

Every weekend, the piazza transforms into a vibrant street food destination, bringing together more than 30 traders serving dishes from across the globe. From flavour-packed Caribbean curries and authentic Korean BBQ, to freshly made Vietnamese street food and flavourful Oklahoma-style smashed burgers, there really is something for everyone. Those with a sweet tooth can indulge in everything from Sicilian cannoli and brownies to chunky NYC-style cookies and chocolate drenched fruit.

Grab a drink from one of the pop-up bars then find a spot overlooking the lively riverside atmosphere, the perfect way to relax and enjoy the city.

Best for: Casual lunches, street food fans and budget-friendly dining.
Good to know: Arrive hungry and take a lap of the market before choosing what to eat. With so many tempting options, narrowing it down can be the hardest part.

For a meal with a view, it doesn't get much better than the iconic OXO Tower Restaurant, Bar & Brasserie. Perched on the eighth floor of the landmark OXO Tower, this sophisticated riverside destination pairs seasonal British cuisine with some of the most spectacular views in the city.

Choose between a table beside the floor-to-ceiling windows or out on the terrace and admire sweeping views across the river Thames towards St Paul’s Cathedral and the glittering city landscape.

It’s the ideal spot for everything from celebratory lunches and elegant afternoon teas to sunset cocktails and memorable dinners.

Best for: Date nights, special occasions and unforgettable Thames views.
Good to know: Time your booking for sunset to watch the city transition from day to night. The terrace is one of South Bank's most sought-after spots for drinks with a view.

Tucked away beneath the arches of Waterloo Bridge, the South Bank Book Market is a paradise for bookworms and one of the riverside's most charming hidden gems. This long-running open-air market is packed full of pre-loved books, rare finds and literary treasures waiting to be discovered.

Spend time browsing the market's stalls, where you'll find everything from classic novels and contemporary fiction to art books, travel guides, vintage maps, prints and collectable editions. Whether you're hunting for a specific title or simply enjoying the thrill of an unexpected find, it's easy to lose track of time among the rows of books.

Best for: Book lovers, collectors and bargain hunters.
Good to know: Keep an eye out for out-of-print editions and unexpected literary gems hidden among the shelves.

Just a few minutes from Waterloo Station, Lower Marsh Market offers a glimpse into a more local side of London.

As one of the city’s oldest street markets, it’s packed with independent retailers, cafes and long-standing businesses that have served the community for generations. Browse everything from fashion, gifts and homewares to fresh produce and speciality food stalls before exploring the vibrant high street itself.

What we love most about Lower Marsh is its distinctly local feel. Surrounded by independent cafes, record shops, pubs and long-standing neighbourhood businesses, it offers a glimpse of everyday Waterloo life just moments away from the South Bank crowds.

Best for: Discovering a local side of Waterloo beyond the riverside.
Good to know: If you’re a fan of wine, we recommend checking out Unwined for small plates and wine by the glass.

Home to independent designers, galleries and creative studios, Oxo Tower Wharf is one of our favourite South Bank spots for discovering handmade gifts, original artwork and one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

Set within the iconic riverside landmark, the ground floor is home to a collection of shops, cafes and dining spots, while the upper floors house a vibrant community of designer-makers, artists and craftspeople. Wander through the light-filled studios and you'll find everything from handcrafted jewellery and ceramics to textiles, illustrations and contemporary homeware.

What makes Oxo Tower Wharf so special is the opportunity to meet the makers behind the products. Many of the artists create their work on-site, giving visitors a rare glimpse into the creative process while offering the chance to browse and buy truly unique pieces directly from the people who made them.

Best for: Independent shopping, design lovers and finding unique souvenirs.
Good to know: Venture beyond the ground floor and explore the upper-level studios, where you can chat with designers, watch artisans at work and even commission bespoke pieces to take home.

Perched high above the river Thames on top of Sea Containers London, 12th Knot is one of South Bank's most stylish rooftop bars, serving creative cocktails alongside spectacular views of London's iconic skyline.

Inside, sleek interiors and floor-to-ceiling windows create a sophisticated atmosphere, while the outdoor terrace offers a front-row seat to one of London's best sunset spots.

Browse the extensive cocktail menu and enjoy alongside sharing plates such as seabass ceviche tacos with a red onion salsa, popcorn buffalo chicken with a buttermilk ranch or fully loaded curly fries drenched in bacon, cheddar cheese and jalapenos.

Best for: Cocktails with a view, date nights and special occasions.
Good to know: Head to the outdoor terrace for the best views over the river and city skyline. Terrace seating is generally allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. The bar regularly hosts live DJs on Saturday nights, adding to the lively evening atmosphere.

Few venues have shaped London's nightlife quite like Ministry of Sound.

Since opening its doors in 1991, this legendary South London club is known for its cutting-edge electronic music, famous sound systems and for hosting some of the biggest DJs in the world.

Check out the club’s iconic main room The Box, where immersive lighting and crystal-clear sound pave the way for headline sets. You’ll also find multiple other rooms to explore, showcasing everything from house and techno to bass, afro beats and emerging talent.

Best for: Clubbers, music lovers and late-night revellers.
Good to know: Check the official websites events calendar before visiting as the club regularly hosts internationally renowned DJs, themed events and daytime parties that often sell out well in advance.

A short stroll from Waterloo Station brings you to Molly Mc's, a lively Irish singing pub known for its live music, expertly poured pints of Guinness and what might just be the best spice bags in London (in our humble opinion!).

Step inside and you'll find a warm, traditional pub buzzing with character, where live musicians bring classic Irish tunes to life throughout the week. From energetic weekend performances to the much-loved Sunday trad sessions, there's always a lively atmosphere and plenty of opportunities for a singalong.

Beyond the music, you'll find tasty Thai comfort food, private karaoke rooms and the venue's hugely popular Irish brunch, where live entertainment, bottomless drinks and feel-good vibes combine for a memorable afternoon.

Best for: Live music lovers, groups of friends and anyone seeking a traditional Irish pub experience.
Good to know: Visit on a Sunday afternoon to catch the lively traditional Irish music sessions, where fiddles, accordions and acoustic performances create one of Waterloo's most unique atmospheres.

For a stylish base within easy reach of South Bank's top attractions, Hilton London Bankside combines contemporary comfort with an unbeatable central location. Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway or a longer city break, it's the perfect place to recharge after a day of exploring.

Step outside and you'll find some of London's most famous attractions just moments away, including Shakespeare's Globe, Tate Modern and the foodie paradise of Borough Market. With the South Bank, Thames riverside and countless restaurants, bars and galleries all within walking distance, you're ideally placed to experience the best of the area.

Back at the hotel, unwind with a dip in the indoor swimming pool, savour seasonal dishes at OXBO Bankside, or settle in with a cocktail at The Distillery. Spacious rooms, thoughtful touches and elegant interiors make it a welcoming retreat from the bustle of the city.

Best for: Couples, families and anyone seeking a comfortable stay close to London's cultural hotspots.
Good to know: Many of South Bank's biggest attractions are within walking distance, meaning you can spend less time travelling and more time exploring.