London Bridge and Bankside for First-Time Visitors: Top Sites + Hidden Gems by a Local
While I’m a London local, I’m still discovering my city — and that’s part of what makes it special and charming. Once a Roman settlement called Londinium, London has been built, rebuilt, and reimagined for centuries. And few places reflect that better than the area around London Bridge and Bankside.
This riverside stretch in SE1 is a mix of old and new, where landmark attractions like The Shard, Borough Market, and Shakespeare’s Globe sit just steps away from hidden gardens, forgotten relics, and quiet corners most tourists never find.
If you’re visiting London for the first time, this guide brings you the best of both worlds — the top attractions you shouldn’t miss, and the hidden gems that make this part of the city feel lived-in and layered. From secret spots near Borough Market to atmospheric alleys with centuries-old stories, here’s how to explore London Bridge and Bankside beyond the obvious.
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STAY + MUST-DO Experiences near London Bridge
- Stay Luxury: The Shangri-La || Sea Containers
- Stay Mid-Range: citizenM || The Dixon
- Visit: The Globe || Tower Bridge || The Tower of London & Crown Jewels
- Walk: Bankside and Borough Market Food Tour
- MUST Book: Thames River Dinner Crusie || The London Eye
- Save Money: The London Pass
First Time in London? Read my comprehensive guide on top places to stay near London Bridge Station to suit every budget.
Top Attractions in London Bridge & Bankside (You Shouldn’t Miss as a First-Time Visitor)
This part of London is packed with iconic sights — historic landmarks, cultural powerhouses, and modern marvels — all within a short walk from London Bridge station. If it’s your first time in the city, these are the must-sees that set the tone for what London does best: mixing the past and present.
1. Borough Market — A Must-Visit for First-Time Visitors
Southwark Street, SE1
Dating back over 1,000 years, Borough Market isn’t just one of London’s oldest markets — it’s also one of the most atmospheric and diverse. Set beneath a Victorian-era railway viaduct near London Bridge, it’s a culinary treasure trove where centuries-old food traditions meet innovative global flavours.
From artisan cheeses and fresh-baked sourdough to Ethiopian coffee, handmade pastries, and sizzling street food, every corner of the market offers a chance to discover something delicious. It’s the kind of place where locals do their weekly food shop alongside chefs, while visitors snack their way from stall to stall.
Whether you fancy a plate of steaming paella, a vegan mushroom shawarma, or a box of heritage British fruit, it’s all here — alongside some of the best people-watching in the city.
TIP: Visit on a weekday mid-morning (10–11am) for the best experience — when the traders are lively, but the crowds haven’t fully descended.
Not to miss things to do in London Bridge and Bankside:
- The raclette stand for melty cheese heaven.
- A grilled cheese toastie from Kappacasein Dairy — legendary for good reason.
- And head to Ginger Pig or Brindisi for delicious charcuterie.
Fun fact: Borough Market has featured in films like Harry Potter and Bridget Jones’s Diary — but it’s still very much a working market with deep community roots
Borough Market | image by Georgina, Timeless Travel Steps
2. The Shard — Sky-High Views & Sleek Dining
Joiner Street, SE1
Piercing the London skyline at 310 metres, The Shard is the tallest building in the UK and Western Europe. Its jagged glass façade has become an icon of modern London — and its views are just as striking.
Head up to The View from The Shard (floors 69 and 72) for 360° panoramas across the capital — from the London Eye and Tower Bridge to as far as Windsor Castle on a clear day. Alternatively, for a more leisurely experience, book a drink or dinner at Aqua Shard, Oblix, or Ting — all offering dazzling perspectives without the observation deck price tag.
For a truly unforgettable experience, why not book your stay at Shangri-La at The Shard — a luxury hotel in the sky, offering breathtaking views and a central location that’s perfect for first-time visitors to London.
TIP: Time your visit for sunset or twilight for maximum drama. These golden hour slots fill quickly — booking ahead is essential.
Insider Tip: Aqua Shard offers weekend brunches with a view, which make for a memorable London experience.
3. Southwark Cathedral — A Spiritual Gem with Shakespearean Ties
London Bridge, SE1
Nestled just behind the bustle of Borough Market, Southwark Cathedral is often missed — but it’s one of London’s most atmospheric and historic churches. Dating back to the Saxon era, with roots stretching over a millennium, this Gothic beauty is a haven of peace in the city.
Inside, admire stained-glass windows, intricately carved wooden choir stalls, and monuments to literary figures, including a poignant tribute to William Shakespeare, whose brother is buried here.
TIP: Entry is free (donations welcomed). Don’t miss the peaceful churchyard garden — a lovely spot to sit with a coffee away from the market crowds.
Insider Tip: The small cathedral shop stocks books and souvenirs tied to local history and Shakespeare.
4. The Golden Hinde — Hands-On History Afloat
St Mary Overie Dock, Cathedral Street, SE1
A striking full-scale reconstruction of Sir Francis Drake’s 16th-century galleon, the Golden Hinde is more than just a photo opportunity — a top attraction in London Bridge and Southbank, offering a brilliant, hands-on introduction to Tudor maritime life. Step aboard to explore cramped quarters, wooden decks, and cannons, and imagine what it was like to circumnavigate the globe.
Especially engaging for kids, school groups, and history lovers, it offers interactive tours, living history events, and even overnight stays for the adventurous.
TIP: Look out for costumed tours and family-friendly pirate events — they add loads of character to the visit.
Pro Tip: Entry is ticketed but affordable, and it’s rarely overcrowded.
5. Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre — Step Back to 1599
Bankside, SE1
A faithful reconstruction of the original Elizabethan playhouse, Shakespeare’s Globe brings the Bard’s world to life with passion and authenticity. Whether you opt for a guided tour or catch a live performance at this famous attraction in London Bridge and Southbank, the open-air setting and oak-beamed architecture immerse you in the theatrical experience as it was in the 16th century.
The yard tickets (standing area) recreate the experience of being a “groundling” — loud, lively, and right next to the stage.
TIP: Standing tickets are just a few pounds and offer arguably the best view and atmosphere. Bring a raincoat if the forecast looks grim — the roof doesn’t extend to the yard!
Insider Tip: The on-site exhibition offers a fascinating look into Elizabethan London and the history of performance.
6. Tate Modern & the Thames Walk – Art & Architecture in London Bridge and Bankside on the River
Once a massive power station, now one of the world’s leading contemporary art museums, Tate Modern is a must for first-time visitors to London Bridge and Bankside — even for the art-curious.
The Turbine Hall alone is worth seeing for its scale and ever-changing installations. Explore bold exhibitions from the likes of Warhol, Hockney, and Olafur Eliasson, many of which are free.
Outside, take a stroll along the Bankside river walk, which links the Tate to Millennium Bridge and St Paul’s Cathedral across the river — a walk that perfectly blends modern art, history, and postcard views.
TIP: Head up to the 10th floor of the Blavatnik Building for free rooftop views over the Thames and St Paul’s dome — one of the area’s best-kept secrets. Personally, I prefer the views from the 6th floor café.
Worth noting: The Tate café and terrace offer a relaxing spot for a light lunch or coffee with a view.
7. Hay’s Galleria — Riverside Shopping with a Historic Twist
Once a bustling 19th-century wharf for tea and spices, Hay’s Galleria is now a beautiful riverside arcade lined with cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops — all sheltered under an impressive glass and iron roof.
At its heart is “The Navigators,” a dramatic bronze sculpture by David Kemp that celebrates the area’s maritime legacy. It’s a quieter spot just minutes from London Bridge Station, perfect for first-time visitors who want a breather from the busy Thames Path.
Tip: Where to eat & drink
- Stop by White Mulberries for specialty coffee, brunch classics, and their signature banana bread.
- Enjoy French bistro fare at Café Rouge, offering a range of dishes in a relaxed setting.
- Grab a pint at The Horniman at Hay’s, a historic pub named after tea trader Frederick Horniman — look out for the horseman figure above the entrance, a nod to the site’s trading past.
Insider tip: Head through to the riverfront for one of the best uninterrupted views of Tower Bridge, especially around sunset.
Hidden Gems in London Bridge & Bankside: Ideal for first-time visitors who want to go beyond the usual trail.
Beyond the headline sights, this part of SE1 hides a quieter, more mysterious side of London — one of ancient stones, forgotten alleys, and stories etched into the city’s fabric. These hidden corners don’t shout for attention, but for those who slow down and look closer, they offer some of the most rewarding discoveries. Whether you’re into history, atmosphere, or a great tucked-away pub, these are the places that often go unnoticed — even by locals, and I have walked past these many times over the years also.
Let’s take a closer look.
1. London Bridge Arches & Nancy’s Steps – Echoes of the Old Bridge
Most people walk right past it, but tucked behind Southwark Cathedral lies one of the last remaining pieces of the original London Bridge — a stone archway and stairway known as Nancy’s Steps. These narrow steps once led up to the medieval bridge before it was dismantled in the 19th century and (famously) sold to America.
The arch forms part of the original bridge approach, and Charles Dickens even mentioned these steps in Oliver Twist. Today, they’re easy to miss — but they offer a tangible link to the city’s layered history, hidden just below the modern bustle.
Nearby gem: Just steps away, tucked under the railway arches, is The Mug House — a characterful pub built into one of the old bridge vaults. With its exposed brickwork, candlelit corners, and extensive wine list, it’s the perfect spot for a drink after exploring the historic lanes.
Insider tip: To find ‘Nancy’s Steps’, walk around the back of the cathedral via Montague Close — you’ll see the stone arch and stairway and The Mug House beneath the arch.
images by Georgina, Timeless Travel Steps
2. The Ferryman’s Seat — A Forgotten Medieval Relic in the Wall
Bankside, near 49 Bankside SE1 (by The Anchor pub)
Set into a brick wall along the Thames Path, this small, weathered flint stone is one of the last remaining medieval ferrymen’s seats in London. Dating back to the 13th century, it was once used by wherrymen who rowed passengers across the river — long before bridges connected the two banks.
Today, it’s an easy spot to miss, but those who know to look will discover one of Bankside’s most humble yet evocative historical relics — a quiet survivor of London’s watery past.
Nearby gem: Practically next door is The Anchor, a historic riverside pub with roots going back over 800 years. Samuel Pepys supposedly watched the Great Fire of London from here. Grab a pint on the terrace and enjoy river views with a side of history.
Insider Tip: Walk west from Shakespeare’s Globe along the Thames Path and keep an eye on the brick wall next to The Real Greek restaurant. There’s no plaque or sign — just a small flint seat known as the Ferryman’s Seat — a subtle, easily missed relic from medieval London, marking the spot where boatmen once waited for their next passenger across the Thames.
3. Cardinal Cap Alley — A Slice of the Scandalous Past in London Bridge and Bankside
Between 49 Bankside and the River Thames, SE1
London Bridge and Bankside aren’t just about markets and museums — they’ve got layers. Cardinal Cap Alley is one of them. It’s easy to walk past this narrow passage near the Globe Theatre without even noticing. But step in, and you’re in one of the last remaining riverside alleys from Elizabethan London.
This little cut-through once led to a brothel licensed by the Bishop of Winchester — the alley gets its name from the red hat (or “cap”) he wore. It’s a small space with a big story, echoing Bankside’s rowdy past of theatres, taverns, and scandal.
Insider Tip: The alley often has a locked gate, but you can still peek down and feel the shift in atmosphere — it’s like a whisper from another time.
4. 49 Bankside — A Quiet Gem with a Storied Past
Cardinal’s Wharf, SE1
Tucked away beside Cardinal Cap Alley, 49 Bankside is one of Bankside’s most intriguing hidden gems. This charming early 18th-century house survived the tides of London’s history — from river workers and coal merchants to wartime bombings. While a plaque claims Sir Christopher Wren once lived here during the building of St Paul’s Cathedral, that story is more legend than fact, adding to the house’s mysterious allure.
49 Bankside is now a private home with no access to the public. However, it is worth a stop if you’re uncovering the Bankside. It’s a quiet, photogenic spot full of local character and history — perfect for those who love discovering London’s lesser-known stories.
Insider tip: Keep an eye out for the plaque on the building’s façade, and enjoy imagining the lives of those who called this riverside house home.
5. Clink Street & The Clink Prison Museum – London’s Grimiest Lane
If you’re exploring London Bridge and Bankside and want a glimpse of its raw, historic side, Clink Street is your spot. It’s cobbled, narrow, and full of shadowy corners — the kind of place that still feels authentically old London.
This was home to the infamous Clink Prison, which ran from the 1100s until the 18th century. The museum here offers a fun (and slightly gruesome) look at medieval punishment, but even if you skip that, the street itself is worth walking.
First-timers usually stick to the riverside path — but just one turn off it and you’re in the middle of Bankside’s raw, unpolished past.
Insider Tip: Come around sunset. The glow against the old brickwork makes for fantastic photos — and a spooky vibe if you’re into that sort of thing.
5. Winchester Palace Ruins — A Slice of Medieval Grandeur in London Bridge and Bankside
Clink Street, SE1
One of the best things about London Bridge and Bankside is how it blends history right into your walk — and Winchester Palace is a perfect example. Just off Clink Street are the ruins of what was once a bishop’s residence, dating back to the 12th century.
You’ll see the remains of a great hall, including a rose window high in the gable wall. It’s a surprise, standing there amid shops and restaurants, quietly reminding you of Bankside’s medieval importance.
For first-time visitors, it’s a quick, free stop that adds depth to your stroll. You don’t expect to find a palace ruin here — and that’s exactly why it’s memorable.
Insider Tip: Look for the information panels nearby to get a sense of just how vast this complex once was.
Winchester Palace ruins, Clink Street | images by Georgina, Timeless Travel Steps
6. Crossbones Graveyard, London Bridge and Bankside — A Memorial to the Outcast
Tucked behind a simple gate just off Borough High Street, Crossbones Graveyard is one of the most moving hidden gems in London Bridge and Bankside. This is where thousands of outcasts — paupers, sex workers, and plague victims — were buried from medieval times through the 19th century.
Though it’s no longer a functioning cemetery, it’s become a powerful place of remembrance. Ribbons, poems, and memorials hang from the gates, left by Londoners and visitors moved by the stories of the “Winchester Geese” — women licensed by the Bishop of Winchester to work in Bankside’s brothels.
You’ll find Crossbones Graveyard quiet, poetic, and deeply human — a contrast to the buzz of nearby Borough Market.
Insider Tip: Come in the early morning or early evening for a more reflective visit. Occasional tours and vigils are hosted here — check the noticeboard on-site.
7. Red Cross Garden — A Victorian Oasis at London Bridge and Bankside
Just around the corner from Crossbones Graveyard is another surprise — Red Cross Garden, one of London’s first social housing gardens. Red Cross Garden is a quiet, flower-filled space designed in the 1880s by social reformer Octavia Hill, one of the founders of the National Trust. She wanted to bring beauty and green space to working-class families.
In the middle of busy London Bridge and Bankside, this spot feels like a hidden village green. There’s a fish-pond, flower beds, and even some original cottages nearby that are still lived in today.
It’s a peaceful place to rest your feet, enjoy a takeaway lunch, or simply get a feel for the human side of the city’s history.
Insider Tip: Look for the mosaics on the garden walls — they tell the story of how the garden came to be.
Must-Do Tours in London Bridge & Bankside for First Time Visitors
If you’re looking to dive deeper into the rich history and culture of London Bridge and Bankside, there’s no better way than with a guided tour. From Thames boat cruises to expert-led walking tours, these experiences will help you uncover the stories behind this vibrant part of London.
Money Savers
The London Pass
Gain skip-the-line access to 80+ top sights like the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and St Paul’s Cathedral — plus includes a Hop-On, Hop-Off bus ticket.
Book The London Pass here.
Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour with Extras
See London’s highlights at your own pace, with stops at Tower Bridge, Big Ben, Borough Market, and more.
Book your Hop-On, Hop-Off Tour here.
River Thames Dinner Cruise
Sail past London’s illuminated skyline while enjoying a 3-course dinner with live Jazz music.
Book your Thames Dinner Cruise here
Royal Museums Greenwich Day Pass
Explore the maritime history of Britain at Cutty Sark, the Royal Observatory, and the National Maritime Museum in the charming riverside district of Greenwich.
Book your RMG Day Pass here.
Tours
Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre Tour
Step into London’s theatrical history on this guided tour of the famous Globe Theatre, just minutes from London Bridge.
Book your Globe Theatre Tour here
Borough Market Food Tour
Taste your way through one of London’s oldest and most iconic food markets with a local expert.
Book your Borough Market Food Tour here
Jack the Ripper Walking Tour
Explore the dark alleys of East London on this eerie tour retracing the footsteps of the infamous killer.
Book your Jack the Ripper Tour here
St Paul’s Cathedral Entry Ticket
Climb the iconic dome for panoramic views, and discover the rich history of this architectural masterpiece.
Book your St Paul’s Cathedral ticket here
London Eye Fast-Track Admission
Get a bird’s-eye view of the city on one of the world’s most iconic observation wheels.
Book your London Eye experience here.
Great Places to Eat Around London Bridge & Bankside (Beyond Borough Market)
While Borough Market is a must-visit for any food lover, you may want to venture a little further for a sit-down meal, riverside view, or something more local. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional pub fare, global flavours, or modern British dining, this area has you covered.
1. The George Inn (National Trust Pub)
Borough High Street
One of the oldest pubs in London, with a stunning galleried courtyard. This 17th-century coaching inn oozes charm and offers traditional British dishes like bangers and mash, fish and chips, and seasonal pies.
Perfect for: A pint and hearty meal in an atmospheric setting steeped in history.
2. Wright Brothers – Oyster & Porter House
Stoney Street
Just a few steps from Borough Market but quieter, this seafood restaurant serves ultra-fresh oysters, mussels, and seafood platters. Excellent for a relaxed, slightly upscale lunch or dinner.
Perfect for: Seafood lovers and date night diners.
3. The Boot & Flogger
Redcross Way
This hidden gem is part wine bar, part old-school tavern. Think dark wood, candlelight, and a menu of British classics. Their wine list is one of the best in the area.
Perfect for: An atmospheric escape from the tourist trail.
4. Franco Manca (Flat Iron Square or Bermondsey)
Flat Iron Square
If you’re after sourdough pizza in a relaxed, communal setting, Franco Manca delivers. Flat Iron Square also has other food traders and pop-up bars — ideal for a casual stop.
Perfect for: A no-fuss, delicious bite close to the Thames.
PRO TIP
The London Pass is a great way to explore London’s top attractions with added transportation perks. It includes a 24-hour hop-on-hop-off bus ticket and a free 1-day Uber Boat by Thames Clippers River Roamer ticket, allowing unlimited river travel along the Thames. Perfect for first-time visitors, the London Pass helps you explore the city easily and affordably.
How to Get to London Bridge & Bankside
London Bridge Station is a major transport hub with excellent connections.
Train:
Served by Southeastern and Thameslink, it connects to destinations like Victoria, Blackfriars, and beyond to the South Coast.
Underground:
The Jubilee and Northern Lines link directly to popular areas like Waterloo and Canary Wharf.
Bus:
Several bus routes, including the 43, 133, and 381, stop at the station.
River Bus:
Thames Clippers offer a scenic ride from nearby piers to Bankside.
On Foot:
The area is walkable, with easy access to London Bridge arch, the Thames Path, and nearby attractions.
With multiple transport options, getting to London Bridge and Bankside is quick and easy.
Related Reading: Explore More of Southwark, London Bridge & Beyond
Guide to Borough Market London: Food, Tours, History, + Sustainability
London Bridge Station Guide for First-Time Visitors to London SE1: Route Map + Expert Tips
The George Pub London Bridge History: London’s Last Galleried Coaching Inn
11 Old Pubs in London Bridge with Hidden Tales for Heritage Lovers
London Bridge vs Tower Bridge: Which One Should You Walk Across.
St Katharine Docks, London: The City’s Secret Marina near Tower Bridge
The Dickens Inn History: Dickensian Charm by St Katharine Docks, London
Why Stay Near London Bridge Station? 12 BEST Hotels From Boutique to Budget
Why is the Tower Bridge Famous? 27 Unique Facts about a London Victorian Landmark
Tower Bridge Captions for Instagram: 29 Sayings for Your London Photos
Where is Southwark, London? Everything You Need to Know.
Is Southwark Safe? Where to Stay, Areas to Avoid, and Safety Tips for First-Time Visitors.
Southwark Cathedral History: A Guide to London’s Oldest Gothic Church.
The Famous Writers of Southwark Cathedral: From Chaucer to Dickens, Shakespeare, and More.
FAQs: Common Queries First-Time Visitors May Have about London Bridge and Bankside
No, they’re two different bridges. London Bridge is more modern and functional, while Tower Bridge (with its twin towers) is the iconic, more photogenic one. Both are a short walk from each other.
From historic pubs like The George Inn to riverside drinks at The Anchor, this area is great for a relaxed evening. You can also catch a play at Shakespeare’s Globe or enjoy the view from The Shard.
The market is open Monday to Saturday, with the full market (including hot food traders) operating Wednesday through Saturday. It’s closed on Sundays.
London Bridge Station (Underground and National Rail) is the main hub. You can also walk along the Thames Path from Tower Bridge or take a Thames Clipper to Bankside Pier.
Yes! Walking tours, ghost tours, and food tours operate daily. Some focus on Shakespeare, others on the area’s darker history. Many are included in the London Pass.
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Spring Flowers in London: Where to See the Best Blooms (Mar – May)
The Ultimate London in Spring Guide for First Time Visitors
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How to Get to Regent’s Park, London: The Ultimate Guide by Tube, Train, and Bus
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My thoughts, as an escapist and a mindful wanderer —about Exploring London Bridge & Bankside for the First Time
If you’re visiting London for the first time, London Bridge and Bankside are the perfect places to stay, and to start your discovery of our charming city. This historic riverside area blends iconic landmarks with secret corners — from panoramic views atop The Shard to hidden alleys and medieval remnants that often go unnoticed, even by long-time Londoners.
As a local London expert, one of my top tips for first-time visitors is to consider the London Pass. With a bit of planning, it can be a smart way to save both money and time — especially if you’re planning to visit several paid attractions. It also includes a free 1-day pass for the Thames Clippers and hop-on-hop-off sightseeing buses. This added convenience can significantly enhance your experience, helping you cover more ground with less stress.
Take your time, follow your curiosity, and don’t be afraid to wander off the main trail. In this part of SE1, every street has a story — and many are still waiting to be discovered. I discover new corners on each of my visits, which what makes this area unique to the city.
Have a great time exploring and discovering our charming city London.
Happy and safe travels always, wherever travel takes you, xx
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All images are captured by the author, Georgina, of Timeless Travel Steps and are © Georgina Daniel unless otherwise specified. In cases where original photography was not utilized, visuals have been obtained from licensed stock photo services, including Deposit Photos, Pixabay, and Canva Pro.
That’s so lovely to hear! London has a way of constantly revealing hidden corners, even to those who’ve lived here — it’s part of the city’s magic. The Ferryman’s Seat is such a quiet little gem, and knowing its link to the Thames makes it even more special. I think you’ll really enjoy it when you’re back — it’s like touching a piece of living history. Thanks so much for sharing.
I lived in London for a few years and there are some amazing gems here that I was not aware of! I’m definitely checking the ferryman’s seat next time I visit as I always love the connection that the Thames has with the history of the city
I completely agree—there’s something so special about uncovering those lesser-known corners that hold quiet stories from the past. They may not draw the big crowds, but they’re often the most meaningful. I’m so glad the post resonated with you, and I truly hope you get to explore London soon—it’s a city full of layers just waiting to be discovered. Let me know if you’d like any tips when the time comes!
Thank you so much for your lovely comment! I’m so glad you found the guide helpful. London has such a rich mix of iconic sights and tucked-away treasures, and it makes me happy to hear that the blend resonated with you. Borough Market and the Bankside food tour are definite highlights—delicious and full of history! I hope your next trip is amazing, and if you ever need more tips or updates, I’m always happy to help.
This is such a helpful guide for first-time visitors to London! I love how it mixes must-see landmarks like The Shard and Shakespeare’s Globe with hidden gems and historic corners most tourists overlook. Borough Market and the food tour around Bankside sound like a dream. Saving this for my next trip—it’s packed with great suggestions!
I like finding hidden gems like you mentioned above. They are pieces of history that most people don’t care about because they are focusing on big things. I will enjoy London when I get a chance to visit the city.
Thank you so much! I feel the same — the main highlights are definitely worth seeing, but it’s often the tucked-away corners that leave a lasting impression. London Bridge and Bankside are full of those quiet surprises, and I’m so glad you enjoyed discovering them through the post!
I love that you included so many hidden gems! I always love to see the main highlights, but it’s fun to explore areas most others miss!