South Bank Walk
"The South Bank Walk (officially The Queen's Walk) is a pedestrian path along the Thames from Westminster to Tower Bridge, passing landmarks, street performers, book markets, pubs, and cultural venues. It's the best free activity in London, offering constantly changing views of the river and city. The walk is about 3 miles and takes 1-2 hours at a leisurely pace."
Logistics
Affordable
Vibe
Scenic, lively
Duration
1-2 hours
Best For
Walking
The Backstory
The South Bank was transformed in the 1950s with the Festival of Britain. Previously industrial and bombed-out from WWII, it's now London's cultural heart with theaters, galleries, and restaurants. The riverside path was formalized in the 1980s-90s.
Local Secret
"Start at Westminster and walk east toward Tower Bridge—this keeps landmarks ahead of you. Stop at the book market under Waterloo Bridge for secondhand books. Gabriel's Wharf has independent shops and cafes. Go in late afternoon for golden hour light on the water."