Last Updated on 20/07/2021 by secretmoona

Disclaimer: This post is written in collaboration with Hotels.com and the spending money was gifted by Hotels.com, but all views are my own.

London Bridge is one of the most popular neighbourhoods in London. It’s a joy to explore the area because it offers a mix of different things to do. From enjoying the city’s most spectacular views, courtesy to The Shard, to sampling some local and international food at Borough Market, London Bridge offers something for everyone. If you’re looking to see historical sites while you try tasty food? We’ve got you covered. Let’s explore the best things to do in London Bridge.

This article will guide you to some of our favourite attractions, activities, and sights around London Bridge. This guide to the top things to do in London Bridge makes for the South Bank’s perfect exploration, from taking a stroll along the Thames to sampling some of the best street foods.

Before you ask yourself what the things to do in London Bridge are, you may be looking for the best accommodation options in the neighbourhood. I would highly recommend you check out some hotels in London Bridge, ranging from budget to luxury accommodations. My top recommendations are:

• CitizenM Bankside – Instagram worthy hotel
• Hilton London Tower Bridge – offers a great view from the rooftop bar
• St Christopher’s Inn at the Village – first UK hostel to offer capsule beds like in Asia
• Novotel London City South – Good hotel in a great location 

What to Eat in London Bridge

Get snacking at Borough Market

Borough Market is one of London’s best food markets and a haven for foodies as one of the oldest food markets is thought to be dating back to at least the 12th century. I love the eclectic architecture of the present buildings, built-in 1851. Today, Borough Market is packed with street food from all around the world, cheese, fresh fruit and veg, meat and fish, artisan bread and some of the yummiest patisseries. I love going there for lunch with colleagues and sampling something different each time. I would recommend going there during the week as it gets too busy at the weekend. My favourite places have to be Kohanon Krok for delicious pad Thai and Borough Cheese Company.

Address: 8 Southwark St, London SE1 1TL

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Get a taste a Lebanese food

Le Comptoir Libanais is a restaurant I wanted to visit but never did, so when a friend suggested it, I thought I had to try. When my sister and I entered the restaurant, we instantly fell in love for several reasons: the food is tasty and copious. You are immersed in the Lebanese atmosphere with the music, colourful decor and the fact that you can buy pretty much anything on display (bags, teapots, cookbooks etc…). This authentic and friendly restaurant is the perfect place for a meal or a fresh mint tea. I highly recommend this restaurant, especially if you like North African and Middle Eastern food.

Address: 82 Tooley St, London SE1 2TF

Get your coffee fix

If you ask anyone for their favourite coffee independent shop in London Bridge, chances are that Grind will be mentioned. Not only they serve good food and great coffee, but what I enjoy is the service. The staff are really attentive and engaging.

Address: 2 London Bridge London, SE1 9RA

Things to do in London Bridge

Discover a bit of history

Situated behind Borough Market and Southwark Cathedral is the remains of the Winchester Palace. Built in the 12th century, it was the served as the London residence of the Bishops of Winchester during the Medieval times. It was ravaged by a fire and forgotten. What used to be a magnificent building is now only a wall with an intricate rose window.

Boat tour from London Bridge Pier

When I first moved to London, I was keen to take a boat tour along the River Thames. I have taken the “bateau mouche” in Paris several times and was wanted to see how beautiful London was from the water. There are several services of offer depending on whether you are heading East (North Greenwich) or West (Putney). You can take the boat from London City Pier to North Greenwich for the Emirates Air Line for example. This experience is definitely one of the top things to do near London Bridge!

Tower Bridge

It will be difficult to explore London without passing by one of its most recognisable landmarks: Tower Bridge. Built in the 19th century, this impressive bridge is one of the top things to do in London Bridge. Head to the top and take in the views from the glass floor. One of the most magical moment is when the bridge lifts to make way for boats to pass. Be sure to check out the lift times here.

Address: Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP – Fee: £8.80

Explore HMS Belfast

HMS Belfast is a floating museum (part of the Imperial War Museum) which allows any boat buff to discover what it was like to be on board for the crew during the war.

Address: The Queen’s Walk, London SE1 2JH – Fee: £12.50 for adult, children go free but book online to get a 10% discount.

Views of the Shard

If you are visiting London Bridge, chances are that you will be seeing the Shard from different angles. Whether it’s from up level 72 of Europe’s tallest building or from the ground, there is no denying that the building is spectacular. You can get a panoramic view of London with the View from The Shard. Tickets are pre-booked and cost £32 for an adult (with £42 you get fast-track entry, a booklet and weather guarantee). Since the weather is unpredictable in London, you can revisit the Shard free of charge if you couldn’t see at least 3 landmarks on your first visit. You can also enjoy a panoramic view by dining at one of the Shangri-la restaurants or bars.

Address: 32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG – Fee: from £24

Quirky things to do in London Bridge

St Dunstan in East Church Garden

The beauty of London is that the city is full of little gems. Tucked between busy streets and tall buildings is this small peaceful garden. The garden sits where the Church of Saint Dunstan was once located. The Grade I listed church was built in 1100 but damaged during the Great Fire of London. After being “patched up”, the church was destroyed once again during WWII. Following several misfortunes, the owners decided not to rebuild the church but turn it into a public garden. What makes Saint Dustan a great spot is the park’s tranquil atmosphere with stunning ruins in the centre. Pretty flowers, ivy growing through walls and windows, tall trees and Gothic architecture (from what’s left) have made this garden an idyllic spot not to be missed. 

Address: St Dunstan’s Hill, London EC3R 5DD – Free entry

Visit The Fashion & Textile Museum

If you are into fashion or a fashion student, you might want to visit the Fashion & Textile Museum showcasing the history of fashion as well as exhibiting the latest jewellery and textile trends. 

Address: 83 Bermondsey St, Bermondsey, London SE1 3XF – Fee: £9.90 for adult / £7 for students

Getting to London Bridge & practical tips

London Bridge is served by underground (Northern and Jubilee lines) as well as the mainline rail. Several buses also serve the area (17, 43, 141, 149 etc…)

If you are planning to visit Borough Market, please note that it’s closed on Sunday and have limited vendors on Mondays and Tuesdays.

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