Car Hire Bermondsey

Driving into Bermondsey is a bit like stepping through layers of London’s past. The A200 leads you directly in—first as Tooley Street, then Jamaica Road—passing wharves and warehouses that now house cafés, breweries and creative spaces. We hired a car for the day and parked just off Tanner Street, which made it easy to explore the neighbourhood on foot. While driving in from Rotherhithe, the shift in architecture and pace was immediate—low-rise buildings, red brick and a sense of history underfoot.

Spring and early autumn are the best times to visit, especially with a car, as the parks feel fresher and the riverside paths less crowded. A popular option with those based in Southwark, Bermondsey is ideal for short visits where you want the freedom to move between corners of the city on your own schedule.

Attractions In Bermondsey

We didn’t plan a route—just followed the road into Bermondsey and let the street signs, cafés and quiet green spaces lead us. Parking was surprisingly straightforward around Spa Road, especially on weekends. It’s the kind of area where you leave the car for a bit and just walk.

Leathermarket Gardens

Close to Weston Street, this quiet park gave us a perfect break after driving in. Easy to reach by car and open 24 hours, it’s shaded, calm and surprisingly peaceful for a central spot.

The View From The Shard

Just a short walk from Bermondsey, the Shard’s viewing platform is hard to ignore. We parked near London Bridge and timed our visit for dusk. Open Monday to Friday from 11:00 am–7:00 pm and Saturdays until 10:00 pm.

The London Bridge Experience & London Tombs

Situated on Tooley Street, we found parking just around the corner. If you’re into theatrical history and can stomach a few scares, it’s a solid stop. Open daily from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

Galleywall Nature Reserve

We nearly missed the turnoff—it’s tucked along Galleywall Road. Limited parking but worth stopping if you’re in the area. Open 24 hours and great for a quick, quiet reset.

Bermondsey Street Festival

If you’re driving from Elephant and Castle, check for road closures. This lively annual event transforms Bermondsey Street with art, food and live music. Best visited by parking a few streets away and walking in.

King’s Stairs Gardens

We parked along Jamaica Road and strolled through this leafy space along the river. A perfect detour after a riverside drive. Open 24 hours.

Bermondsey Spa Gardens

Handy to reach by car, with street parking nearby. A popular stop for families, dog walkers or just stretching your legs. Open all hours.

Tower Of London

We looped round from Peckham and found metered parking along Lower Thames Street. A brisk walk across Tower Bridge took us to this iconic landmark. Open daily from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm.

Tower Bridge

Driving underneath it is impressive—but walking over the high-level walkways is the highlight. From Bermondsey, we found riverside parking and took in views stretching to South Bank. Open 9:30 am to 6:00 pm daily.

London Glassblowing

Just off Bermondsey Street, we parked nearby and stepped into this working studio. Watching molten glass become sculpture is both meditative and intense. Open Monday to Saturday, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

If You’re Staying A While

Bermondsey works well by car—park up and explore, then drive out for dinner or nearby detours. For coffee, Henri’s on Bermondsey Square offers metered parking right out front and their cinnamon-scented counter is a warm welcome. We had tapas at José Tapas Bar, always bustling but easy to reach from local bays.

If you’re staying the night, The Bermondsey Square Hotel has its own parking and makes a perfect base. From here, you can easily head to New Cross, swing through Camberwell or catch a gig over in Waterloo.