Walking itinerary on the South Bank: From Westminster to Tower Bridge
The South Bank is the most beautiful pedestrian walkway in London. It stretches along the south bank of the Thames, from Westminster Bridge to Tower Bridge, for about 3 km of flat, car-free path, with spectacular views of the city's most iconic landmarks. In this guide, you will find the complete itinerary, step by step, with distances, travel times, and tips to make the most of this experience.
Why walk the South Bank?
The South Bank offers a unique perspective of London. Walking along the river, you will see the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben across the water, the London Eye towering in the sky, the dome of St. Paul's providing a backdrop to the Millennium Bridge, and finally, Tower Bridge completing the route beautifully. It is a flat itinerary, suitable for everyone (even those who walk little), and rich in attractions, markets, pubs, and resting areas.
The complete itinerary: from Westminster to Tower Bridge
Total distance:3.2 km (about 2 miles)
Travel time without stops:40-50 minutes
Recommended time with stops:3-4 hours (or a whole day if you visit all the attractions)
Stop 1: Westminster Bridge and Big Ben
Starting point:Westminster Bridge (Westminster tube station exit).
Look out from the bridge and admire the most famous view of London: thePalace of Westminster(seat of Parliament) and theElizabeth Tower(commonly known as Big Ben, although Big Ben is the name of the bell inside).
What to do:Panoramic photo with Big Ben in the background.
Fun fact:The Palace of Westminster is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its foundations date back to the 11th century.
Metro:Westminster (Circle, District, Jubilee).
Stop 2: The London Eye
Get off the bridge and turn right. After 200 meters you will encounter theLondon Eye, the 135-meter tall Ferris wheel.
What to do:If you have time and budget, ride the London Eye (30-minute ride, book online). Otherwise, admire the wheel from below and take photos.
Free alternatives:On the South Bank, there are many spots for creative photos (with the wheel framing Big Ben).
Recommended duration (if you ride):30 minutes + waiting.
Stop 3: South Bank Centre and National Theatre
Continuing east, you will encounter theSouth Bank Centre, a cultural complex that includes theRoyal Festival Hall(concert halls), theHayward Gallery(modern art), and theNational Theatre.
What to do:Go up to the terrace of the National Theatre (free) for a nice view of the Thames and Somerset House (on the other bank).
If you have time:Check out the programming at the National Theatre (high-quality shows, tickets starting at £15-20).
Public restrooms:Inside the National Theatre and the Royal Festival Hall.
Stop 4: Gabriel's Wharf and Oxo Tower
Just after the National Theatre, the walk becomes more lively.Gabriel's Wharfis a small area with craft shops, cafes, and outdoor restaurants.
Just beyond, theOxo Toweris an art deco building that now houses design shops, restaurants, and a free viewing terrace.
What to do:Go up to theOxo Tower Viewing Gallery(eighth floor, free entry, elevator). The view of the Thames and St. Paul's is spectacular.
Tip:Grab a coffee or a drink at the Oxo Tower bar (expensive but with a view).
Stop 5: Tate Modern and Millennium Bridge
Continuing on, you arrive at theTate Modern, the most visited modern and contemporary art museum in the world. The building is a former power station, featuring the iconic chimney (the "Switch House").
In front of the Tate Modern, theMillennium Bridge(nicknamed "Wobbly Bridge" for its initial swaying) connects the South Bank to St. Paul's Cathedral.
What to do:
Enter theTate Modern(free entry). Even just to see the Turbine Hall (the giant atrium) and go up to the viewing terrace on the 5th floor (view of St. Paul's).
Cross theMillennium Bridgefor a photo with St. Paul's in the background.
Recommended time:30-60 minutes (if you visit the museum, up to 2 hours).
Metro:Southwark (Jubilee) or Blackfriars (Circle, District).
Stop 6: Shakespeare's Globe Theatre
Just after the Tate Modern, you will find theShakespeare's Globe Theatre, a faithful reconstruction of the Elizabethan theater where Shakespeare staged his plays. The original was from 1599; this one was built in 1997.
What to do:
Visit the museum and the theater (guided tours, £15-20).
If you are here during the summer season (May-October), catch a show (standing tickets cost only £5-10).
Take a photo outside (free).
Metro:London Bridge (Jubilee, Northern) or Mansion House (Circle, District).
Stop 7: The Anchor Pub and Bankside
Right next to the Globe isThe Anchor, one of the oldest and most characteristic pubs on the South Bank (dating back to 1600). It was frequented by Samuel Pepys (the diarist) and sailors.
What to do:Go in for a pint of beer (£6-7) or lunch (fish and chips £12-15). Sit outside on the riverside terrace.
Atmosphere:Historic, crowded, authentic.
Stop 8: Clink Street and Golden Hinde
Slightly deviating from the river (following the signs for "Clink Street"), you find a medieval alley with ancient barrel vaults. Here stood theClink Prison, a medieval prison (now a museum). In front, theGolden Hindeis a reconstruction of Sir Francis Drake's ship (16th century), docked in a dry dock.
What to do:Photos in the alley (picturesque). The museums charge admission (5-10 £).
Tip:The alley is very photogenic. It's worth it just for the atmosphere.
Stop 9: Borough Market
A short walk from Clink Street (crossing Stoney Street) isBorough Market, the most famous food market in London (open Wednesday-Saturday).
What to do:Try the street food: paella, doughnuts (Bread Ahead), fish and chips, risotto, cheeses, fruit juices.
Hours:Wednesday-Thursday 10:00-17:00, Friday 10:00-18:00, Saturday 8:00-17:00. Closed Sunday, Monday, Tuesday.
Tip:If the market is closed, the surrounding area has many pubs and restaurants.
Stop 10: London Bridge and Monument
Returning to the river, you arrive at theLondon Bridge(the current bridge is modern, not the famous one from the song that was falling apart - that was the old London Bridge, now in Arizona!). On the north bank stands theMonument to the Great Fire of London(column from 1677, 62 meters).
What to do:Climb the Monument (311 steps, £6, view of the city).
Photo:From London Bridge, the view of Tower Bridge is beautiful.
Stop 11: HMS Belfast
Just after London Bridge, moored on the river, is theHMS Belfast, a Royal Navy cruiser that participated in the Normandy landings (1944) and the Korean War. Today it is a floating museum.
Entrance:£15-20.
Tip:Even just seeing it from the outside is impressive.
Stop 12: Tower Bridge (Arrival)
The last stop is theTower Bridge, the most famous drawbridge in the world. Built between 1886 and 1894, it is a masterpiece of Victorian engineering.
What to do:
Cross it on foot (free).
Visit theTower Bridge Exhibition(ticket £12-15) which includes the glass pedestrian walkway 42 meters high and the engine rooms (see the mechanisms of the drawbridge).
Take the iconic photo from the side of the Tower of London (on the north bank).
Metro:Tower Hill (Circle, District).
(Optional) Stop 13: Tower of London
The route ends on the north bank, opposite Tower Bridge. Take the opportunity to visit theTower of London(ticket £30-35, 2-3 hours). If you don't have time, admire it from the outside.
Summary table of stops
| Stop | Attraction | What to do | Recommended time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Westminster Bridge & Big Ben | Photo, panorama | 10 min |
| 2 | London Eye | Photo or ride (30 min) | 10-40 min |
| 3 | South Bank Centre & National Theatre | Free terrace | 15 min |
| 4 | Gabriel's Wharf & Oxo Tower | Shopping, café, free terrace | 20-30 min |
| 5 | Tate Modern & Millennium Bridge | Free museum, terrace, photo | 30-90 min |
| 6 | Shakespeare's Globe | Photo, tour (£15-20) | 15-30 min |
| 7 | The Anchor Pub | Pint or lunch | 30-60 min |
| 8 | Clink Street & Golden Hinde | Photo, medieval alley | 10 min |
| 9 | Borough Market | Street food (if open) | 30-60 min |
| 10 | London Bridge & Monument | Photo, climb the Monument (£6) | 15-30 min |
| 11 | HMS Belfast | Photo or visit (£15-20) | 10-30 min |
| 12 | Tower Bridge | Cross, visit (£12-15) | 20-60 min |
| 13 | Tower of London (optional) | Visit (30-35 £) | 2-3 hours |
Practical tips for the walk
Comfortable shoes:You will walk 3-4 km, with many stops. Bring sneakers.
Layered clothing:It can be windy along the river. Even in summer, bring a sweatshirt.
Bring a water bottle:Tap water is drinkable. Save money.
Don't bring large luggage:A medium backpack is fine. No suitcases.
Choose the right time:The sunset is spectacular. Mornings (9:00-11:00) are less crowded.
Lunch break:Borough Market (if open) or one of the pubs along the way (The Anchor, The George Inn).
Public restrooms:National Theatre, Tate Modern, Borough Market, London Bridge station, Tower Bridge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take to walk from Westminster to Tower Bridge?
40-50 minutes without stops. With stops (photos, coffee, attractions), 3-4 hours. If you visit all the attractions, a full day.
Is the South Bank free?
The walk is free. Some attractions (London Eye, Tate Modern temporary exhibitions, Globe tour, Tower Bridge Exhibition) have fees. Others (Oxo Tower, National Theatre terrace, Tate Modern permanent collection) are free.
What is the best time to do the South Bank?
At sunset (about 30-40 minutes before sunset). The light on the city is magical. Early morning (9:00) is less crowded.
Is the South Bank accessible for disabled people?
Yes, the path is completely flat and free of architectural barriers. The main attractions (Tate Modern, London Eye, National Theatre) are accessible.
Can I bring my dog on the South Bank?
Yes, leashed dogs are allowed on the promenade and in many outdoor spaces. Inside museums, no (except for guide dogs).
Where can I eat along the South Bank?
Borough Market(street food),The Anchor(pub),Oxo Tower(fine dining),Gabriel's Wharf(cafés and outdoor restaurants),Tate Modern(café with a view).
What is the best spot to photograph Tower Bridge?
From the north bank (Tower of London side), or from London Bridge (further away). You can also get nice perspectives from the south bank (Queen's Walk).
How far is the South Bank from Westminster to Tower Bridge?
3.2 km (about 2 miles).
Are there public restrooms along the route?
Yes, at the National Theatre, Tate Modern, Borough Market, London Bridge station, and Tower Bridge (ticket office).
Is the walk along the South Bank suitable for children?
Yes, it is flat, safe, and full of attractions for children (London Eye, Tate Modern (free), the playground near the National Theatre, markets, and ice cream).
Walking itinerary along the South Bank: From Westminster to Tower Bridge
The South Bank is the most beautiful pedestrian walkway in London. It stretches along the south bank of the Thames, from Westminster Bridge to Tower Bridge, for about 3 km of flat, car-free path, with spectacular views of the city's most iconic landmarks. In this guide, you will find the complete itinerary, step by step, with distances, travel times, and tips to make the most of this experience.
Why walk the South Bank?
The South Bank offers a unique perspective of London. Walking along the river, you will see the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben across the water, the London Eye towering in the sky, the dome of St. Paul's providing a backdrop to the Millennium Bridge, and finally, Tower Bridge completing the route beautifully. It is a flat itinerary, suitable for everyone (even those who walk little), and rich in attractions, markets, pubs, and resting areas.
The complete itinerary: from Westminster to Tower Bridge
Total distance:3.2 km (about 2 miles)
Travel time without stops:40-50 minutes
Recommended time with stops:3-4 hours (or a whole day if you visit all the attractions)
Stop 1: Westminster Bridge and Big Ben
Starting point:Westminster Bridge (Westminster tube station exit).
Look out from the bridge and admire the most famous view of London: thePalace of Westminster(seat of Parliament) and theElizabeth Tower(commonly known as Big Ben, although Big Ben is the name of the bell inside).
What to do:Panoramic photo with Big Ben in the background.
Fun fact:The Palace of Westminster is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its foundations date back to the 11th century.
Metro:Westminster (Circle, District, Jubilee).
Stop 2: The London Eye
Get off the bridge and turn right. After 200 meters you will encounter theLondon Eye, the 135-meter tall Ferris wheel.
What to do:If you have time and budget, ride the London Eye (30-minute ride, book online). Otherwise, admire the wheel from below and take photos.
Free alternatives:On the South Bank, there are many spots for creative photos (with the wheel framing Big Ben).
Recommended duration (if you ride):30 minutes + waiting.
Stop 3: South Bank Centre and National Theatre
Continuing east, you will encounter theSouth Bank Centre, a cultural complex that includes theRoyal Festival Hall(concert halls), theHayward Gallery(modern art), and theNational Theatre.
What to do:Go up to the terrace of the National Theatre (free) for a nice view of the Thames and Somerset House (on the other bank).
If you have time:Check out the programming at the National Theatre (high-quality shows, tickets starting at £15-20).
Public restrooms:Inside the National Theatre and the Royal Festival Hall.
Stop 4: Gabriel's Wharf and Oxo Tower
Just after the National Theatre, the walk becomes more lively.Gabriel's Wharfis a small area with craft shops, cafes, and outdoor restaurants.
Just beyond, theOxo Toweris an art deco building that now houses design shops, restaurants, and a free viewing terrace.
What to do:Go up to theOxo Tower Viewing Gallery(eighth floor, free entry, elevator). The view of the Thames and St. Paul's is spectacular.
Tip:Grab a coffee or a drink at the Oxo Tower bar (expensive but with a view).
Stop 5: Tate Modern and Millennium Bridge
Continuing on, you arrive at theTate Modern, the most visited modern and contemporary art museum in the world. The building is a former power station, featuring the iconic chimney (the "Switch House").
In front of the Tate Modern, theMillennium Bridge(nicknamed "Wobbly Bridge" for its initial swaying) connects the South Bank to St. Paul's Cathedral.
What to do:
Enter theTate Modern(free entry). Even just to see the Turbine Hall (the giant atrium) and go up to the viewing terrace on the 5th floor (view of St. Paul's).
Cross theMillennium Bridgefor a photo with St. Paul's in the background.
Recommended time:30-60 minutes (if you visit the museum, up to 2 hours).
Metro:Southwark (Jubilee) or Blackfriars (Circle, District).
Stop 6: Shakespeare's Globe Theatre
Just after the Tate Modern, you will find theShakespeare's Globe Theatre, a faithful reconstruction of the Elizabethan theater where Shakespeare staged his plays. The original was from 1599; this one was built in 1997.
What to do:
Visit the museum and the theater (guided tours, £15-20).
If you are here during the summer season (May-October), catch a show (standing tickets cost only £5-10).
Take a photo outside (free).
Metro:London Bridge (Jubilee, Northern) or Mansion House (Circle, District).
Stop 7: The Anchor Pub and Bankside
Right next to the Globe isThe Anchor, one of the oldest and most characteristic pubs on the South Bank (dating back to 1600). It was frequented by Samuel Pepys (the diarist) and sailors.
What to do:Go in for a pint of beer (£6-7) or lunch (fish and chips £12-15). Sit outside on the riverside terrace.
Atmosphere:Historic, crowded, authentic.
Stop 8: Clink Street and Golden Hinde
Slightly deviating from the river (following the signs for "Clink Street"), you find a medieval alley with ancient barrel vaults. Here stood theClink Prison, a medieval prison (now a museum). In front, theGolden Hindeis a reconstruction of Sir Francis Drake's ship (16th century), docked in a dry dock.
What to do:Photos in the alley (picturesque). The museums charge admission (5-10 £).
Tip:The alley is very photogenic. It's worth it just for the atmosphere.
Stop 9: Borough Market
A short walk from Clink Street (crossing Stoney Street) isBorough Market, the most famous food market in London (open Wednesday-Saturday).
What to do:Try the street food: paella, doughnuts (Bread Ahead), fish and chips, risotto, cheeses, fruit juices.
Hours:Wednesday-Thursday 10:00-17:00, Friday 10:00-18:00, Saturday 8:00-17:00. Closed Sunday, Monday, Tuesday.
Tip:If the market is closed, the surrounding area has many pubs and restaurants.
Stop 10: London Bridge and Monument
Returning to the river, you arrive at theLondon Bridge(the current bridge is modern, not the famous one from the song that was falling apart - that was the old London Bridge, now in Arizona!). On the north bank stands theMonument to the Great Fire of London(column from 1677, 62 meters).
What to do:Climb the Monument (311 steps, £6, view of the city).
Photo:From London Bridge, the view of Tower Bridge is beautiful.
Stop 11: HMS Belfast
Just after London Bridge, moored on the river, is theHMS Belfast, a Royal Navy cruiser that participated in the Normandy landings (1944) and the Korean War. Today it is a floating museum.
Entrance:£15-20.
Tip:Even just seeing it from the outside is impressive.
Stop 12: Tower Bridge (Arrival)
The last stop is theTower Bridge, the most famous drawbridge in the world. Built between 1886 and 1894, it is a masterpiece of Victorian engineering.
What to do:
Cross it on foot (free).
Visit theTower Bridge Exhibition(ticket £12-15) which includes the glass pedestrian walkway 42 meters high and the engine rooms (see the mechanisms of the drawbridge).
Take the iconic photo from the side of the Tower of London (on the north bank).
Metro:Tower Hill (Circle, District).
(Optional) Stop 13: Tower of London
The route ends on the north bank, opposite Tower Bridge. Take the opportunity to visit theTower of London(ticket £30-35, 2-3 hours). If you don't have time, admire it from the outside.
Summary table of stops
| Stop | Attraction | What to do | Recommended time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Westminster Bridge & Big Ben | Photo, panorama | 10 min |
| 2 | London Eye | Photo or ride (30 min) | 10-40 min |
| 3 | South Bank Centre & National Theatre | Free terrace | 15 min |
| 4 | Gabriel's Wharf & Oxo Tower | Shopping, café, free terrace | 20-30 min |
| 5 | Tate Modern & Millennium Bridge | Free museum, terrace, photo | 30-90 min |
| 6 | Shakespeare's Globe | Photo, tour (£15-20) | 15-30 min |
| 7 | The Anchor Pub | Pint or lunch | 30-60 min |
| 8 | Clink Street & Golden Hinde | Photo, medieval alley | 10 min |
| 9 | Borough Market | Street food (if open) | 30-60 min |
| 10 | London Bridge & Monument | Photo, climb the Monument (£6) | 15-30 min |
| 11 | HMS Belfast | Photo or visit (£15-20) | 10-30 min |
| 12 | Tower Bridge | Cross, visit (£12-15) | 20-60 min |
| 13 | Tower of London (optional) | Visit (30-35 £) | 2-3 hours |
Practical tips for the walk
Comfortable shoes:You will walk 3-4 km, with many stops. Bring sneakers.
Layered clothing:It can be windy along the river. Even in summer, bring a sweatshirt.
Bring a water bottle:Tap water is drinkable. Save money.
Don't bring large luggage:A medium backpack is fine. No suitcases.
Choose the right time:The sunset is spectacular. Mornings (9:00-11:00) are less crowded.
Lunch break:Borough Market (if open) or one of the pubs along the way (The Anchor, The George Inn).
Public restrooms:National Theatre, Tate Modern, Borough Market, London Bridge station, Tower Bridge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take to walk from Westminster to Tower Bridge?
40-50 minutes without stops. With stops (photos, coffee, attractions), 3-4 hours. If you visit all the attractions, a full day.
Is the South Bank free?
The walk is free. Some attractions (London Eye, Tate Modern temporary exhibitions, Globe tour, Tower Bridge Exhibition) have fees. Others (Oxo Tower, National Theatre terrace, Tate Modern permanent collection) are free.
What is the best time to do the South Bank?
At sunset (about 30-40 minutes before sunset). The light on the city is magical. Early morning (9:00) is less crowded.
Is the South Bank accessible for disabled people?
Yes, the path is completely flat and free of architectural barriers. The main attractions (Tate Modern, London Eye, National Theatre) are accessible.
Can I bring my dog on the South Bank?
Yes, leashed dogs are allowed on the promenade and in many outdoor spaces. Inside museums, no (except for guide dogs).
Where can I eat along the South Bank?
Borough Market(street food),The Anchor(pub),Oxo Tower(fine dining),Gabriel's Wharf(cafés and outdoor restaurants),Tate Modern(café with a view).
What is the best spot to photograph Tower Bridge?
From the north bank (Tower of London side), or from London Bridge (further away). You can also get nice perspectives from the south bank (Queen's Walk).
How far is the South Bank from Westminster to Tower Bridge?
3.2 km (about 2 miles).
Are there public restrooms along the route?
Yes, at the National Theatre, Tate Modern, Borough Market, London Bridge station, and Tower Bridge (ticket office).
Is the walk along the South Bank suitable for children?
Yes, it is flat, safe, and full of attractions for children (London Eye, Tate Modern (free), the playground near the National Theatre, markets, and ice cream).
Just follow the river.
The walk along the South Bank from Westminster to Tower Bridge is the perfect walking route to discover London at a leisurely pace. In just 3 km, you pass by some of the city's most iconic attractions: Big Ben, the London Eye, Tate Modern, the Globe Theatre, Borough Market, and Tower Bridge. No complicated map is needed: just follow the river. Wear comfortable shoes, bring a camera, and lots of enthusiasm. It is one of the most rewarding and authentic experiences that London has to offer, and it is completely free.
Discover every aspect of the trip in our complete guide:holidays in London.
Review date:April 2026