London Arch Great Ocean Road
Iconic offshore rock arch on the Great Ocean Road, a testament to nature's power and a must-see coastal spectacle.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
London Arch Great Ocean Road
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic offshore rock arch on the Great Ocean Road, a testament to nature's power and a must-see coastal spectacle.
"Breathtakingly beautiful destination! The scenery is absolutely breathtaking, with crystal-clear waters, lush greenery, and picturesque landscapes."
🚗 Start Early to Beat Crowds
Beat the rush by starting your Great Ocean Road journey early. Less traffic means more time to enjoy the sights!
🧥 Pack for All Weather
Coastal weather changes fast! Bring layers, including rain gear, even on sunny days.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
London Arch
Port Campbell National Park
A dramatic offshore rock arch, a testament to nature's power. Once connected to land, now a stunning coastal spectacle.
Coastal Views
Various viewpoints along the Great Ocean Road
Breathtaking panoramas of the Southern Ocean, rugged cliffs, and pristine beaches. Perfect for photography and soaking in the scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Weather Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Start Early to Beat Crowds
Beat the rush by starting your Great Ocean Road journey early. Less traffic means more time to enjoy the sights!
🧥 Pack for All Weather
Coastal weather changes fast! Bring layers, including rain gear, even on sunny days.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Allow ample time for photo stops. The dramatic coastal landscapes are a photographer's dream.
🚶♀️ Explore Viewpoints
Several viewing platforms offer great perspectives. Some require a short scramble over rocks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Start Early to Beat Crowds
Beat the rush by starting your Great Ocean Road journey early. Less traffic means more time to enjoy the sights!
🧥 Pack for All Weather
Coastal weather changes fast! Bring layers, including rain gear, even on sunny days.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Allow ample time for photo stops. The dramatic coastal landscapes are a photographer's dream.
🚶♀️ Explore Viewpoints
Several viewing platforms offer great perspectives. Some require a short scramble over rocks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find London Arch a beautiful, albeit sometimes less unique, stop on the Great Ocean Road. While some feel other nearby attractions like The Grotto are more special, its dramatic offshore arch and coastal scenery are undeniably breathtaking and a must-see for first-time visitors to Victoria. The ease of access and stunning views make it a worthwhile addition to any road trip.
"My Visit to London Bridge (London Arch), Great Ocean Road
Visiting London Bridge, now called London Arch, was one of the most fascinating stops along my Great Ocean Road journey. The moment I arrived, I was greeted by stunning coastal views — turquoise waves crashing against the rugged cliffs, and the iconic limestone arch standing proudly in the middle of the sea. It’s a sight that truly takes your breath away.
This natural wonder has an interesting history. Originally, it was a double-arched rock formation connected to the mainland, resembling London Bridge — hence the name. But in January 1990, the arch closest to the shore unexpectedly collapsed, leaving two tourists stranded on the remaining section until they were rescued by helicopter. Since then, it’s been known as London Arch, a reminder of how nature continuously reshapes the coastline.
The viewing platforms are well placed and offer sweeping views of the arch and surrounding cliffs. The sound of the ocean, the salty breeze, and the endless horizon make it a spot where you can just stand still and admire the raw power of nature.
Visitor Tips:
• Visit during sunset for beautiful golden light and fewer crowds.
• Carry a light jacket, as it can get windy even on sunny days.
• The walk from the car park to the viewpoint is short and easy, suitable for all ages.
• Bring your camera or phone — this is one of the most photogenic spots along the Great Ocean Road.
• Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Port Campbell, Loch Ard Gorge, and the Twelve Apostles, all within a short drive.
Standing there, looking at what remains of the once “bridge,” I felt amazed at how powerful and unpredictable nature can be. London Bridge — or London Arch — isn’t just a scenic stop; it’s a story of time, change, and the beauty of Australia’s wild southern coast."
Shanz Shanz
"On our road trip to the Great Ocean Road, we decided to stop at most of the stops on the way. The London Bridge stop was beautiful, but in hindsight not super special. Would recommend more to go to The Grotto, which was more unique than this stop. If you have plenty of time though, you can come here too."
Fan
"A quick stop at the scenic coastline when visiting Twelve Apostles. Great view with breathtaking photo op. I highly recommend to make a pit stop. There is no restroom or trash bin. Free parking available. It's free to visit."
Towsif Sajid
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
London Arch is located in Port Campbell National Park, along the iconic Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia. The most common way to visit is by car, driving along the Great Ocean Road itself. It's approximately a 3-4 hour drive from Melbourne. Many visitors stop here as part of a longer road trip exploring the entire Great Ocean Road.
Public transport options to the Great Ocean Road are limited and can be time-consuming. Coach services operate from Melbourne to towns along the coast, but reaching specific attractions like London Arch might require local taxis or pre-arranged tours. Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility.
The best way to experience the Great Ocean Road is by car, allowing you to stop at various viewpoints and attractions at your own pace. Consider starting early to avoid crowds and enjoy the scenic drive.
Yes, numerous guided tours depart from Melbourne and other nearby towns that include stops at London Arch and other Great Ocean Road highlights. These tours can be a convenient option if you prefer not to drive.
The Great Ocean Road is 243 km (151 miles) long. While you can drive it in a day, it's highly recommended to take at least two days to fully appreciate the sights and avoid rushing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit London Arch or most of the viewpoints along the Great Ocean Road. These are natural attractions within national parks.
London Arch is an outdoor natural attraction and is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and the best viewing experience.
Yes, there is dedicated parking available at the London Arch viewpoint, making it easy for visitors to stop and explore.
While there are no specific entry restrictions, visitors are advised to stay on designated paths and viewing platforms for their safety and to protect the natural environment.
Originally, London Arch was connected to the mainland by a natural bridge. This section collapsed in 1990, so it is now an offshore arch and cannot be accessed directly from land.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography at London Arch. The golden hour light can create dramatic shadows and highlight the textures of the rock formations. 
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grandeur of the arch and the surrounding coastline. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water and enhance colors.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the latest regulations with Parks Victoria before flying a drone.
The main viewing platform provides excellent views. Experiment with different angles from the platform and consider the surrounding coastline for a more comprehensive shot.
Yes, sunset can offer beautiful colors over the ocean, but be mindful of the time and ensure you are safely back at your vehicle before it gets too dark.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
A visit to London Arch typically takes about 30-60 minutes, including time for photos and enjoying the view. It's often visited in conjunction with other nearby attractions.
There are well-maintained viewing platforms and short paths leading to viewpoints around London Arch. These are generally easy to navigate.
The main viewing platforms are generally accessible. However, some areas might involve uneven surfaces or steps, so it's advisable to check accessibility details if you have specific mobility concerns.
Nearby attractions include The Grotto, Loch Ard Gorge, Gibson Steps, and the iconic Twelve Apostles. It's common to visit these in one outing.
Reviews suggest that while London Arch is beautiful, some visitors find The Grotto more unique. However, many still consider London Arch a worthwhile stop, especially if you have ample time.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as facilities can be spread out. The drive itself is engaging, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife. Ensure children stay within designated viewing areas for their safety.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Aim for the 'golden hours' of sunrise and sunset for the most dramatic lighting. Wide-angle lenses are ideal for capturing the scale of the landscape. Be prepared for dynamic weather, which can add to the moodiness of your photographs.
🚗 Road Trip Adventurers
Plan your route, book accommodation in advance if staying overnight, and be sure to allocate enough time to truly appreciate the journey. London Arch is a key highlight on this unforgettable drive.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geological Story of London Arch
However, in a dramatic display of nature's forces, the inner arch collapsed into the sea on January 15, 1990. This event transformed the double arch into the single, freestanding arch we see today. The collapse serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing erosion that shapes the Great Ocean Road's dramatic coastline.
Geologists explain that these formations are created through a process of wave erosion. Waves attack weaknesses in the rock, gradually carving out caves. When two caves on opposite sides of a headland meet, they form an arch. Further erosion can eventually lead to the collapse of the arch, leaving behind a sea stack or, as in this case, a single arch.
Experiencing the Great Ocean Road: A Road Trip Guide
+1Many travelers recommend starting early in the morning to avoid the peak crowds and enjoy the 'golden hour' light, which is perfect for photography. Consider breaking the journey into at least two days to truly soak in the sights without feeling rushed. Popular stops include the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and of course, London Arch.
+1Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions. Packing layers, including waterproofs, is essential. Comfortable walking shoes are also a must, as many viewpoints involve short walks. Don't forget your camera – the dramatic landscapes are incredibly photogenic.
+1
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