Car Hire South Bank

Set along the southern bank of the River Thames, South Bank is one of Greater London’s most captivating areas for art lovers, history enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. The neighbourhood, housing 12,000, is easy to reach by road, making it a convenient stop for those driving across the capital. With the river breeze ever-present, it’s wise to pack light, waterproof and comfortable shoes for walking between galleries, museums and outdoor spots. The months between April and October bring milder temperatures and a fuller calendar of events, making them the best time to explore. Whether you’re drawn by landmark art centres, pop-up performances or historic riverfronts, South Bank rewards curiosity with something new around every turn.

Attractions In South Bank

There’s a sense of ease to exploring South Bank — one moment you’re stepping into a world-class gallery, the next you’re passing buskers and riverside food stalls. The area offers a thoughtful mix of bold, contemporary spaces and lesser-known gems tucked behind old facades. It’s this contrast that keeps things interesting, especially for those willing to wander on foot. Whether your interest lies in fine art, wartime history or urban viewpoints, the walkable layout means each visit unfolds at just the right pace.

Tate Modern

Few places capture the energy of South Bank quite like the Tate Modern. Housed inside a repurposed power station, the gallery is home to the UK’s National Collection of modern and contemporary art and its scale alone is enough to impress. On our way from Waterloo, we followed the sloping entrance that leads visitors through security and into the enormous Turbine Room — a space as much about atmosphere as it is art. Entry is free aside from select exhibitions and you’ll find a café and restaurant at ground level, plus a small kiosk on the tenth floor offering sweeping city views. Open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, it’s the kind of place that rewards both casual wandering and deeper engagement.

Wolfson Gallery

This often-overlooked gallery offers something quite different — a look behind the curtain at the craftsmanship that brings theatre to life. The current exhibition focuses on costume design, highlighting just a fraction of the thousands of items in its collection. We found ourselves absorbed in the practical magic of theatre — from fabric selection to maintenance — and the details that shape a performance. The space invites visitors to slow down and consider how character and costume are so closely intertwined. It’s compact but rich with detail and unexpectedly engaging.

Hayward Gallery

Hayward Gallery manages to feel both cutting-edge and approachable, with contemporary exhibitions that rotate throughout the year. Split across two floors and several rooms, the space is designed for thoughtful exploration without feeling overwhelming. Just a short walk from Aldwych, it’s a great choice for anyone who enjoys modern art in a relaxed setting. We chatted with a staff member who had met one of the featured artists, adding a personal touch to the experience. Open from 10 AM most days (except Mondays), with a café upstairs and food stalls nearby, it’s a rewarding stop whether you stay for an hour or an afternoon.

Southbank Centre

At the heart of the area’s cultural landscape, the Southbank Centre brings together every corner of the arts under one roof. This vibrant venue houses galleries, concert halls, a public library and performance spaces that are active well into the evening, with extended hours until 11 PM most days except Mondays. Open every day of the week, it offers a constantly rotating lineup of exhibitions, talks and events, all just steps away from iconic sights like the London Eye and Big Ben. Whether you’re browsing an exhibition or catching a live show, the centre is never short on things to do. Its position makes it especially convenient for those coming from Central London looking to dive into something creative.

Florence Nightingale Museum

Tucked behind Lambeth Palace, the Florence Nightingale Museum is a compact but fascinating stop for those with an interest in medical history. The story it tells is personal, insightful and remarkably relevant, covering Nightingale’s legacy and the evolution of nursing. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, your ticket is valid for a full year, which is a welcome bonus for anyone planning return visits. We found it to be a calm, well-curated space that offers more than meets the eye.

Imperial War Museum

A visit to the Imperial War Museum delivers both breadth and depth — from major global conflicts to deeply personal stories. It’s free to enter and open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, making it a great option whether you’re planning a detailed afternoon or just stopping in. Approaching from Elephant and Castle, the museum’s presence is immediate and striking. Inside, the exhibits are impressively structured, combining multimedia original artefacts and powerful narratives that give real weight to historical events. There’s plenty here to challenge your thinking and even more to linger over if you’re inclined to take your time.

Garden Museum

Occupying the atmospheric setting of the former St Mary’s Church, the Garden Museum offers something truly distinctive in South Bank. It blends history, horticulture and hands-on experiences, all within a peaceful yet inspiring space. There’s a well-curated programme of exhibitions throughout the year, plus dedicated areas for children, including a creative play zone and crafts table. Half the charm lies in climbing the 131 narrow steps to reach the viewing platform — it’s not an easy ascent but the skyline views over London are well worth the effort. During our visit, we sampled the on-site café’s handmade biscuits, which paired perfectly with the calm, leafy surroundings. The museum is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM and makes a great half-day detour for anyone exploring Kennington or the riverside.

Gabriel’s Pier

Tucked just off Upper Ground, Gabriel’s Pier stands as a quiet wooden deck reaching into the Thames, offering a moment of reflection in the heart of the city. Once part of the working riverfront, this vantage point near Ernie’s Beach preserves a slice of London’s industrial past, complete with exposed river walls and clear lines of sight in all directions. Though modest in appearance, it offers a rare view and an unusually calm space for taking in the riverside atmosphere. For those with an eye for quiet landmarks, it’s an easy and worthwhile detour.

County Hall

Imposing and instantly recognisable, County Hall remains one of South Bank’s defining pieces of architecture. This stately building was once the headquarters of the Greater London Council and its classical style gives it a sense of gravitas that still holds today. Now repurposed to house exhibitions, entertainment venues and even hotels, the structure has kept much of its historical presence intact. With over 1,200 positive reviews, visitors often remark on the detail in its design and the grand setting that frames so much of South Bank’s cultural activity. It’s a fitting symbol of the area’s blend of civic pride and cultural reinvention.

Oxo Tower

The Oxo Tower stands as one of South Bank’s most striking riverside landmarks, combining Art Deco design with panoramic views over London. Originally a power station and later transformed into a branding beacon for the Oxo beef cube company, the building now hosts galleries, restaurants and a popular rooftop bar. We were especially impressed by the relaxed atmosphere inside and the attention to detail from the staff, who made the experience even more welcoming. It’s not just the view that draws people in — the blend of design history and contemporary comfort makes it a rewarding place to stop. Whether you’re exploring the riverside walk or heading in from London, it’s well worth the detour.

South Bank Lion

A fierce yet dignified presence near Westminster Bridge, the South Bank Lion has stood watch over the Thames since the 19th century. Sculpted by William F. Woodington in 1837 for the Lion Brewery, this 13-tonne red Coade stone lion has weathered centuries of change. It was carefully relocated in 1966 after the brewery’s demolition, now acting as a quiet sentinel amid some of the city’s busiest attractions. Its size and distinctive colour make it impossible to miss, while its craftsmanship reflects a level of detail rarely seen in modern public art. Beyond its symbolism, the lion offers one of the most photogenic backdrops along the Queen’s Walk.

The London Dungeon

The London Dungeon transforms South Bank’s riverside architecture into a theatrical thrill ride through Britain’s darker history. From the moment you step inside, actors, sets and soundscapes work together to immerse you in tales of plague, execution and infamous Londoners. Open daily from 10 AM (with shorter hours on Sundays), it manages to balance fright and fun in a way that appeals to both adults and older children. We heard several excited groups planning return visits, especially those who had been there during Halloween week. If you’re coming in from Vauxhall, it’s one of the first major experiences you’ll want to line up.

The Queen’s Walk

Stretching along the riverside from Westminster Bridge to Tower Bridge, the Queen’s Walk is one of the most scenic and accessible ways to experience London’s heart. Whether visiting during the day or after sunset, the combination of twinkling lights, historic buildings and lively crowds gives it a dynamic charm. Street musicians and performers often line the walkway, creating a festival-like feel in places. With the scent of food drifting from nearby market stalls and the soft sounds of the river below, it’s an inviting route for a relaxed stroll or quick sightseeing fix.

South Bank Distrikt

Right in the middle of this bustling promenade is the South Bank Distrikt — a vibrant pocket of creativity, music and food. This lively space blends public art, spontaneous performances and pop-up street food into one energetic stretch. It’s easy to find yourself lingering here longer than planned, soaking in the atmosphere and chatting with vendors or locals enjoying their evening out.

The Graffiti Tunnel

Hidden beneath the tracks near Leake Street, the Graffiti Tunnel is a must-see for lovers of urban art. Its walls are a constantly shifting gallery of spray-painted works — some abstract, others political, all arresting. We were drawn in by the rawness of the space and the sheer range of styles on display. It’s the sort of place that rewards repeat visits, as new layers appear almost daily. A favourite among street photographers and skaters alike, the tunnel holds a certain offbeat magnetism. While walking in from Bloomsbury, it made for an unexpected but fascinating stop.

Jubilee Gardens

Tucked between the London Eye and the River Thames, Jubilee Gardens provides a rare moment of calm amid the artistic energy of South Bank. Its wide lawns, scattered trees and floral touches offer the perfect place to sit and watch boats glide by or children play near the fountains. The views are what elevate it — Big Ben framed across the river, the wheel turning slowly behind and the buzz of the Queen’s Walk just beyond. For those wanting a break from galleries and theatres, it’s an ideal open-air retreat.