London's South Bank - A Waterfront Defined by Destinations

In London, a collection of distinct destinations uniquely woven together creates one of the world's best waterfronts

Distinct, Unique Destinations are Key

South Bank in London involves a series of distinct destinations connected by a promenade. The focus on the destinations is a main reason why this waterfront is such an interesting place to visit and spend time. The promenade weaves and winds around these important cultural and community institutions without a dominant design "motif," letting the destinations shine and keeping the experience dynamic.

There are a number of markets in this area like the famous Borough Market selling food and goods of all kinds in a dense, bustling setting and Gabriel's Wharf which is full of small shops that thrive around an active square, offering a cozy atmosphere. There is also an international food market and a large book market curled up under a bridge.

Other distinct destinations on and near the waterfront include The Tate Modern Museum, The London Eye, The Globe Theatre and four major theatre facilities, The Royal Festival Hall/South Bank Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hall and the National Theatre. Each face directly onto the promenade using their outdoor area as an important part of the venue and a way to connect with public life. With these major historic and cultural destinations as anchors, London's South Bank is one of the most dynamic waterfronts we've ever seen.

South Bank Promenade

London's southern waterfront has one of the great promenades of the world. It is highly spontaneous, organic, and constantly changing, which makes it a place that people want to be. There are musical acts, food kiosks, seating areas, cultural institutions, and more. With so many people and so much going on, it feels like a moving stage that embraces you as you travel along it.

Destinations

The London Eye

One of the world's most recognizable modern landmarks, the London eye, is an amazing focal point along the south of the Thames river. The elegant way it looms over the skyline gives people a destination to walk toward as they stroll along the promenade, holding the promise of incredible views and an unforgettable experience.

The Promenade's Southbank Book Market

The Book Market on London's South Bank is a treasure trove of prints, maps, and new reading material. Through its outdoor presence, this colorful market draws in passersby to take a closer look at its vibrant titles as they stroll along the water.

Borough Market

Borough Market is a delight for the senses, and has been for centuries. This sprawling food market is well-connected to its surroundings and boasts a dynamic mix of both indoor and outdoor areas with hundreds of stalls and thousands of offerings. Borough Market is one of the most visited destinations in London, and a major attraction along the south of the river.

Gabriel's Wharf

Gabriel's Wharf is a wonderful square and shopping area and an excellent example of Lighter, Quicker, Cheaper destination building. Transformed from a once empty lot, Gabriel's Wharf is now home to numerous vendors and cafes, an arts presence, and great gathering places. Its transformation was implemented in 1988 and kicked off over the span of only three months. It is incredible to see how such a short period of time led to a lasting example of a thriving waterfront destination.

Global Street Food Market

Street food markets like the popular Southbank Centre Food Market bring so much vibrancy to this part of the waterfront, showcasing the amazing offerings of eateries from around this multicultural city and impressive culinary talent from around the world. People of every kind gather here, united by their love of delicious treats and trying new things.

Performance Halls

The various performance calls in the area make the waterfront region a hub of the arts. People gather to watch world-class shows, but also spend time here throughout the day because of the great eateries and cafes in their vicinity.

South Bank Centre/Royal Festival Centre

Queen Elizabeth Hall

National Theatre

Globe Theatre

Bridges Connecting to the Downtown Center

The Thames connects people on the promenade to central London via bridges positioned toward key areas. The river acts as London's "spine," connecting rather than dividing the south and north parts of the city. It provides not only a strong economic base for clusters of local businesses, but at the same time, a series of valuable public spaces. The bridges that weave these waterfront hubs of activity into the city are also world-class destinations and landmarks in their own right.

The large collection of destinations along the southern waterfront of the London river make it a place that people love to visit year round. There is always change happening to the venues and their surrounding areas, keeping things interesting and dynamic, and the markets are places of intense activity throughout the year. Exploring the vast number of amenities and activations here offers visitors a rich experience that is always changing and improving. London's Southbank is therefore one of the best and most dynamic waterfronts around the world and worth looking to for inspiration.