As a Londoner with over 5 years of exploring my hometown, I’m excited to share some of the top highlights and activities around the iconic London Bridge. Spanning the River Thames in central London, this historic bridge offers spectacular views and serves as a gateway to major attractions like the Tower of London, Borough Market, and HMS Belfast.
In this guide, I’ll provide first-hand recommendations on landmarks, walking routes, river cruises, and exciting activities to enhance your experience. As an ethical content creator, my goal is to offer reliable advice that enriches your visit without exaggeration or manipulative tactics. Enjoy responsibly.
Table of Contents
Top Landmarks Near London Bridge
Tower Bridge: This iconic Victorian suspension bridge, with its neo-Gothic towers, is a fantastic photo backdrop. Walk across for stunning skyline views or visit the Tower Bridge exhibition inside the towers to learn about the bridge’s mechanical workings.
Tower of London: Step back in time at Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress. Join a Yeoman Warder tour to hear intriguing tales from this historic site. Be sure to check the opening hours before you visit.
HMS Belfast: Explore this floating maritime museum and discover the intricacies of a real Royal Navy warship. Walk the decks, check out the engine room and weaponry, and enjoy panoramic river views.
City Hall: London’s administrative headquarters boasts a unique glass facade and an open-air viewing gallery offering exceptional views of Tower Bridge and the Tower of London.
The Shard: Europe’s tallest building features bars, restaurants, and an observation deck on floors 68-72. Enjoy breathtaking bird’s-eye views of London’s skyline and landmarks. A must-see.
London Riverside Walks and Attractions
Borough Market: A must-visit for foodies, this renowned market offers a variety of artisanal stalls selling global snacks, cheeses, breads, and gourmet treats. Open Wednesday to Saturday.
Clink Prison Museum: Dive into the grim history of this 12th-century jail. Explore archaeological remains of medieval inmates and interactive displays that bring the prison’s past to life.
Golden Hinde: Visit the full-scale recreation of the 16th-century galleon in which Sir Francis Drake circumnavigated the globe. Walk the plank and fire the cannons!
The View from The Shard: No trip to London Bridge is complete without taking in the breathtaking 360-degree views from 800 feet up. On clear days, you can see up to 40 miles.
London Exciting Activities
Thames River Cruise: Enjoy a relaxing sightseeing cruise along the River Thames. Depart from London Bridge Pier and explore landmarks from Westminster to Greenwich and beyond.
Roaming Food Tours: For a deep dive into London’s culinary scene, join a guided tour that takes you through Borough Market tastings and other local foodie hotspots.
Escape Games London: Test your puzzle-solving skills at thrilling escape room venues near London Bridge, featuring mysteries ranging from Aztec tombs to spy bunkers.
The London Bridge Experience: Venture into the eerie vaults beneath the bridge for an immersive, scare-filled journey through London’s dark history. Enter if you dare.
I hope this guide helps you make the most of your visit to London Bridge while adhering to ethical practices. Feel free to leave your questions and feedback below.
With over 5 years of experience exploring London’s diverse neighborhoods and a background in urban studies, our author brings a blend of expert knowledge and personal insights to alondonlist.com. Passionate about uncovering the city’s hidden gems and cultural hotspots, they offer readers practical tips and authentic experiences for making the most of London. Follow their adventures on Instagram.