Southwark Area Guide

Southwark is a vibrant borough located in the heart of London, England. Situated on the south bank of the River Thames, it boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage. Southwark is home to several iconic landmarks, including the world-famous Shakespeare's Globe Theatre and the imposing Southwark Cathedral. The borough is renowned for its diverse and lively atmosphere, with bustling markets, trendy restaurants, and charming pubs lining its streets. Southwark's central location provides easy access to major attractions such as the Tower Bridge and the Tate Modern art gallery. Whether you're strolling along the riverfront or exploring the vibrant neighborhoods, Southwark offers a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern urban life.

Highlights and attractions

Shakespeare's Globe Theatre

Visiting the Shakespeare's Globe Theatre is an absolute must for theatre enthusiasts and fans of Shakespeare's works. The authenticity of the reconstructed Elizabethan theatre provides a rare opportunity to experience the magic of his plays in the way they were originally intended to be performed. From the open-air setting to the period costumes and traditional music, every detail at the Globe Theatre immerses visitors in the rich theatrical history of Shakespeare's time. Watching a performance here allows for a deep connection with the timeless beauty of Shakespeare's language and the unparalleled artistry of his storytelling.

See London from the sky

Immerse yourself in breath-taking views and gain a unique perspective of London by visiting The Shard. As the tallest building in the UK, it offers unparalleled panoramic vistas of the city from its viewing platform on the 72nd floor. The towering structure provides an awe-inspiring experience, allowing visitors to appreciate iconic landmarks like the Tower Bridge and St. Paul's Cathedral from a whole new vantage point. With its modern architecture and floor-to-ceiling glass windows, The Shard offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness the sprawling cityscape of London in all its glory.

The Clink Prison Museum

A trip to the Clink Prison Museum is a captivating and immersive experience that delves into the haunting history of crime and punishment. Step into the atmospheric setting of one of England's oldest prisons and discover the harsh conditions faced by prisoners throughout the centuries. Through interactive exhibits, informative displays, and knowledgeable guides, the museum brings to life the stories of inmates, the methods of torture and punishment, and the eerie ambiance of a bygone era. Prepare to be both educated and intrigued as you delve into the dark depths of The Clink Prison Museum.

Food & Drink

Best places to eat

Southwark is a food lover's paradise, offering a vibrant and diverse culinary scene with an array of excellent dining options. Whether you're craving Italian pasta, sizzling grilled meats, authentic Spanish tapas, or classic British fare, this borough has it all. Padella, a renowned pasta bar, entices with its freshly made pasta dishes using simple yet flavourful ingredients, while The Coal Shed delights with its quality grilled meats and seafood sourced locally. For a taste of Spain, José Pizarro serves up an exquisite selection of traditional tapas, complemented by a fine selection of Spanish wines.

When it comes to British and European cuisine, Arthur Hooper's takes centre stage in Borough Market, showcasing seasonal small plates using the finest local produce. Meanwhile, Elliot's Café, also located in Borough Market, presents a menu inspired by British and European flavours, ensuring a delightful culinary experience. For a stylish and contemporary dining option, The Refinery impresses with its diverse menu, offering everything from sharing plates to salads and cocktails. And for a taste of classic British comfort food, Terry's Café serves up hearty breakfasts and traditional dishes that will satisfy any craving.

Best places to drink

Southwark is a vibrant destination that offers a diverse and exciting drinking scene. Immerse yourself in the charm of the borough with a visit to The Old Thameside Inn, where you can savour a drink while taking in the picturesque views of the river. For beer enthusiasts, The Rake is a must-visit craft beer haven, offering a rotating selection of local and international brews that will satisfy any palate. Indulge in the art of mixology at The Hide Bar, where skilled bartenders create expertly crafted cocktails using premium spirits and fresh ingredients. Step back in time at The George Inn, a historic pub dating back to the 17th century, where you can enjoy traditional ales in a characterful setting.

Wine lovers can explore a world of flavours at Vinopolis Wine Wharf, which boasts an extensive selection of old-world and new-world wines, allowing you to embark on a delightful tasting journey. Gin enthusiasts can discover the secrets of distillation at Bermondsey Gin and The Distillery Bankside, where you can witness the gin-making process firsthand and savour unique and artisanal gins. With its diverse range of drinking establishments, Southwark ensures that every visitor can find a spot to relax, unwind, and enjoy a memorable drink in a captivating setting.

Local activities

Outdoors

One can relish in leisurely strolls along the captivating Thames Path, where breath-taking views of the river and iconic landmarks provide a serene backdrop for outdoor exercise. Furthermore, the borough offers a haven of charming parks and green spaces, including the enchanting Geraldine Mary Harmsworth Park, the expansive Burgess Park, and the serene Archbishops Park, each offering not only picturesque vistas but also a tranquil atmosphere that invites individuals to engage in various physical activities and immerse themselves in the natural beauty that surrounds them.

Fitness

Within the borough of Southwark, fitness enthusiasts will find themselves spoiled for choice as it houses a myriad of well-equipped gyms, such as The Gym and PureGym, where individuals can partake in an extensive array of invigorating workouts and engaging classes tailored to suit diverse fitness goals, ensuring that every individual can find a suitable regimen to pursue their personal fitness aspirations.

Borough Market

This gastronomic haven captivates the senses with its abundant offerings, encompassing a diverse and enticing array of local vendors proudly showcasing their culinary prowess, an abundant selection of farm-fresh produce sourced from the region's bountiful lands, and an exquisite assortment of artisanal products meticulously crafted with love and dedication, ensuring that every visit to Borough Market becomes an unforgettable experience that tantalizes the taste buds, sparks culinary inspiration, and celebrates the vibrant flavours of Southwark and beyond.

Transport Links

Southwark has excellent transport links, with multiple bus routes and two London Underground stations within the area. The Jubilee line runs through Southwark, making it easy to reach central London and other parts of the city quickly. The Northern line also has a station in the area, providing access to the City and West End. There are also several overground train stations within easy reach, including Waterloo and London Bridge.

Schools

Southwark has a range of excellent schools, both primary and secondary, including state-run and independent options. Some of the top schools in the area include Southwark Primary School, St. Joseph's Catholic Primary School, St. Saviour's and St. Olave's School.