Southbank Centre London
A dynamic cultural hub on London's South Bank, offering art, music, food, and stunning Thames views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Southbank Centre London
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dynamic cultural hub on London's South Bank, offering art, music, food, and stunning Thames views.
"Southbank Centre is a must-visit for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse cultural offerings."
🎯 Book Exhibitions Ahead
Popular shows like Yoshitomo Nara sell out. Book online to guarantee entry!
👟 Comfy Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the entire Southbank Centre.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hayward Gallery Exhibitions
Hayward Gallery
Discover cutting-edge contemporary art in a Brutalist architectural gem. Always a must-see for art lovers.

Southbank Centre Food Market
Behind Royal Festival Hall
A global feast! Indulge in diverse street food from around the world. Perfect for a casual lunch or snack.
Jeppe Hein's Appearing Rooms
Southbank Centre
Cool off with this interactive water sculpture. Fun for all ages on a warm London day.

Southbank Skate Park
Beneath Queen Elizabeth Hall
Witness incredible skateboarding talent in this iconic urban space. A true piece of London's subculture.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Maximize Your Visit
Embrace the South Bank Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Exhibitions Ahead
Popular shows like Yoshitomo Nara sell out. Book online to guarantee entry!
👟 Comfy Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the entire Southbank Centre.
📱 Use the Southbank App
Check event listings, maps, and opening times easily.
💧 Beat the Heat
Jeppe Hein's fountain is a lifesaver on hot days! Free fun for everyone.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Exhibitions Ahead
Popular shows like Yoshitomo Nara sell out. Book online to guarantee entry!
👟 Comfy Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the entire Southbank Centre.
📱 Use the Southbank App
Check event listings, maps, and opening times easily.
💧 Beat the Heat
Jeppe Hein's fountain is a lifesaver on hot days! Free fun for everyone.
🍜 Foodie Paradise
Don't miss the food market for diverse and delicious street eats.
🛹 Iconic Skate Spot
Check out the legendary Southbank Skate Park for some urban culture.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Southbank Centre for its vibrant atmosphere, diverse cultural offerings, and stunning riverside location. The food market is a major draw, offering a global culinary adventure. While the art exhibitions are highly regarded, some find the complex can feel overwhelming due to its size and crowds.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Southbank Centre is easily accessible via public transport. The nearest Tube stations are Waterloo (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, Waterloo & City lines) and Embankment (Bakerloo, Northern, Circle, District lines). Numerous bus routes also serve the area. Many visitors enjoy walking along the South Bank from Westminster Bridge, taking in the views.
Yes, Southbank Centre is located just a short walk from Waterloo Station, making it very convenient for travelers arriving by train or using the Tube.
Driving is not recommended due to congestion and limited parking. It's best to use public transport or walk. If you must drive, there are car parks nearby, but they can be expensive.
Southbank Centre is a large complex with multiple venues and entrances. The main areas are accessible from the Queen's Walk, near the Royal Festival Hall and Hayward Gallery. Check your specific venue for the best entrance.
The best way to explore the South Bank is on foot. Start from Westminster Bridge and walk east towards the Tate Modern and Shakespeare's Globe, enjoying the street art, performers, and iconic landmarks along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the general Southbank Centre grounds and many public spaces is free. However, tickets are required for specific exhibitions at the Hayward Gallery, performances in the Royal Festival Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall, and Purcell Room, and special events.
Wandering the Southbank Centre itself is free. Ticket prices vary significantly depending on the exhibition or performance you wish to see. Check the official Southbank Centre website for current pricing.
For most exhibitions and performances, it's advisable to book tickets in advance online, especially for popular events, to avoid disappointment. Some events may have tickets available on the day, but this is not guaranteed.
The Southbank Centre complex is generally open daily, but individual venues and exhibitions have their own specific opening hours. The Food Market typically operates on weekends. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, Southbank Centre often hosts free events, including public art installations, street performances, and sometimes free talks or workshops. Keep an eye on their 'What's On' section online.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Southbank Centre offers a diverse range of activities, including art exhibitions at the Hayward Gallery, live music and theatre performances, a vibrant food market, public art installations like Jeppe Hein's fountain, and the iconic Southbank Skate Park.
Absolutely! Families can enjoy interactive art installations, the food market, street performers, and the general lively atmosphere. The water features are a hit on warm days.
Iconic views include the London Eye, Houses of Parliament from Westminster Bridge, the brutalist architecture of the Hayward Gallery, and the vibrant street art. Waterloo Bridge at sunset is also stunning.
Yes, Wi-Fi is generally available throughout the Southbank Centre complex, allowing you to stay connected and share your experiences.
The Fandangoe Discoteca is a unique mini disco designed by Annie Frost Nicholson, intended to help people process grief and support mental health through dance.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Southbank Centre Food Market offers a fantastic array of global street food. There are also several cafes, bars, and restaurants within the various venues, including options at the National Theatre and the Swan at the Globe.
The market features a diverse range of cuisines, from bao buns and Polish sausages to Japanese dishes and brie wedges. It's a great place to sample different flavors.
Yes, the food market typically has a good selection of vegetarian and vegan options from various vendors. It's always worth asking the stallholders about their offerings.
For upscale dining, consider Forza Wine at the National Theatre or The Swan at Shakespeare's Globe. For more casual options, explore Lower Marsh behind Waterloo, which has many cafes and restaurants.
The Southbank Centre Food Market primarily operates on weekends (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). It's best to check their specific opening days and hours online before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the London Eye, Houses of Parliament, and the Thames from the Queen's Walk. The brutalist architecture of the Hayward Gallery offers unique angles, and Waterloo Bridge at sunset is breathtaking.
Photography policies vary by exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted for personal use in most areas, but check signage at the entrance of each exhibition or venue for specific rules.
While general photography is usually allowed, professional photography or filming may require a permit. Flash photography is often prohibited inside galleries to protect the artwork.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful light for capturing the cityscape and the Thames. Evenings also provide a magical ambiance with the city lights.
Beyond the Southbank Centre itself, iconic nearby landmarks include the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Bridge, and the Tate Modern.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the specific attractions, the general atmosphere of the South Bank is lively and engaging for children, with street performers and plenty of space to wander. Consider visiting during the day to make the most of the outdoor activities and the food market. The BFI Southbank also sometimes has family-friendly film screenings.
💰 Budget Travelers
The Southbank Centre Food Market provides a more affordable dining option compared to sit-down restaurants, allowing you to sample diverse cuisines without breaking the bank. While exhibitions and performances have ticket costs, simply enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and public art is a rewarding experience for free.
🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts
Don't miss the public art installations scattered throughout the complex, which add an artistic dimension to the entire area. The BFI Southbank offers a deep dive into film history and culture, providing a different, yet equally enriching, cultural experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Southbank Centre Art Scene
Beyond the Hayward, the Southbank Centre often features public art installations and temporary displays throughout its grounds. These can range from interactive sculptures like Jeppe Hein's Appearing Rooms that offer a playful way to cool down, to thought-provoking pieces that engage with social issues. Keep an eye on their listings for current and upcoming art experiences that add an extra layer to your visit.
For those interested in film and media, the BFI Southbank (British Film Institute) is also located within the complex. It offers a vast archive of films and television programs, with comfortable booths for viewing. It's a fantastic spot for a more relaxed cultural immersion, especially if you have a gap between other activities.
A Culinary Journey at Southbank Centre Food Market
This market is particularly popular on weekends, creating a lively and bustling atmosphere. It's the perfect place to grab a casual lunch or snack while exploring the South Bank. Many visitors rave about specific vendors, highlighting the quality and unique flavors available. For instance, 'My Kids Are Hungry' is frequently praised for its exceptional bao buns.
When planning your visit, remember that the market typically operates from Friday to Sunday. It's advisable to check the official Southbank Centre website for the most current operating days and hours, as these can sometimes vary. The market's location at street level, as you walk towards Waterloo, makes it easily accessible and a central point for culinary discovery.
The Iconic Southbank Skate Park
Visitors can spend time watching talented skaters perform impressive tricks and maneuvers. The atmosphere is energetic and authentic, offering a glimpse into a vibrant subculture. Even if you're not a skater, the sheer skill and dedication on display are captivating. The park's location, tucked away from the main thoroughfares, adds to its unique charm and appeal.
The Southbank Skate Park is a testament to the enduring power of community-driven spaces. It has survived various redevelopment plans and remains a cherished spot for skaters of all levels. It's a fantastic place to experience a different facet of London's dynamic urban landscape, away from the more traditional tourist attractions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit