A hub for commuters and tourists alike, London Bridge is the perfect destination to discover something new.
With something exciting to do on every corner, you’ll never be short of things to do in London Bridge.
Its central location means you’re never too far from some of the capital’s most iconic landmarks, and it doesn’t take long before you’re swept away by the buzzing atmosphere.
There are eateries, bars, and pubs aplenty here, and what’s more, the area is constantly evolving, so you can expect a range of new exciting experiences, from immersive theatre to tranquil green spaces.
Whether you’re on the go or looking to soak up the sights, this neighbourhood has got you covered!
So scroll through for the 31 most fun things to do in London Bridge.
1. The Shard
Address: Joiner Street, London SE1 9QU
Phone number: 0344 499 7222
If you’re looking for breathtaking views of London, The Shard is a must-visit.
With the highest public viewing gallery in London, you’ll get 360-degree views for up to 40 miles (on a good day!).
Step outside to soak up the city’s atmosphere on the open-air sky deck on Level 72, or savour the moment with a glass of champagne.
The best part: if the British weather takes a turn for the worse, you can come back for free!
Want to make a real day of it?
With three floors of restaurants (Hutong, TīNG, Oblix, Gong, and Aqua Shard), you can indulge in some of the finest dining in the city.
As you can imagine, these spots are incredibly popular so be sure to book in advance!
2. Immersive Gamebox
Address: Arch 3, 83 Scoresby Street, Southwark, London SE1 0XN
Looking for something more unique to do?
Then why not try the Immersive Gamebox in Southwark?
This immersive gaming centre offers a one-of-a-kind experience.
Once you step inside, you’ll be transported to a whole new world!
It has motion tracking, touch screens, and surround sound, making it feel like you’re really a part of the game.
If you’re a fan of the hit Netflix series Squid Game, you’ll love their 60-minute immersive adventure.
It lets you and your friends participate as contenders in Squid Game where you have to survive all six challenges from the show.
You’ll need to be on your toes!
Every time you lose, you lose players’ lives, but each time you win, you earn money in the piggy bank.
And the best part?
Drinks are delivered right to you during your game!
3. Vinegar Yard
Address: Vinegar Yard, 72-82 St Thomas St, London SE1 3QU
Located right next to London Bridge Station (you can’t miss its colourful containers, and large iron and sculptures), Vinegar Yard is a well-known hot spot.
In summer, the large tents come down and it becomes the perfect socialising spot.
With plenty of benches, it’s a great spot for big groups to gather, and the festival-style catering means everyone can choose which food and drinks they’d prefer.
It may look slightly out of place amongst the contemporary design of the Station and its surrounding buildings.
However, it’s the best spot to admire the glossy architecture of The Shard, London’s tallest building.
If going with a group, I’d suggest booking in advance as it can get busy!
4. Electric Shuffle
Address: 10 Bermondsey Street, London SE1 2ER
Phone number: 0208 059 4163
If you’re not up to date with your London knowledge, there’s a chance you may have missed this new addition to the area!
Nestled right under the bridge, this new retro-style venue has something for everyone.
Featuring brick walls and a cosy ambience, Electric Shuffle is perfect for a bottomless brunch in London Bridge or a night out with friends.
So whether you’re a seasoned pro or a complete newbie, it’s time to go head-to-head around the shuffle table.
And don’t worry, there’s plenty of space for everyone to play.
But that’s not all!
Need the perfect excuse to stray from the competition?
There are two beautiful bars, serving up delicious cocktails and other drinks to help you unwind.
If you’re feeling peckish, you can also indulge in some delicious pizza and small plates that are sure to hit the spot.
5. Borough Market
Address: Borough Market, 8 Southwark Street, London SE1 1TL
Phone number: 020 7407 1002
Are you in the mood for something delicious but need help deciding what cuisine to indulge in?
Then, look no further than Borough Market.
This foodie haven offers a diverse range of mouth-watering dishes from all over the world.
From pasta to Thai, Greek to Japanese, there’s something here to satisfy every taste bud.
The market also offers an abundance of fresh bread, cheeses, vegetables, and meats for you to take home and savour later.
If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere, the weekend is the perfect time to visit.
Sure, it can get pretty busy, but the vibrant energy of the market is well worth the trip.
One spot that’s definitely worth the wait is Padella.
Don’t let the queue discourage you (they don’t take reservations), so they’ll give you a buzzer to let you know when a table is ready.
And if you’re looking for a special dining experience to celebrate an occasion, you can’t go wrong with one of the market’s restaurants like Roast or Fish!
6. Borough Yards
Address: Borough Yards, Stoney Street, London SE1 9AD
A newly renovated area, Borough Yards is a stone’s throw away from the bustling Borough Market.
Based in and around a series of reconstructed railway arches (yes, there appears to be a theme), it’s a vibrant new destination to eat, work, and play.
It’s currently home to the popular Everyman Cinema, Paul Smith, Burger & Beyond, Mondo Beer & Pizza, Parrillan, and more, with even more to come!
7. HMS Belfast
Address: The Queen’s Walk, London SE1 2JH
Phone number: 020 7416 5000
This London landmark is hard to miss!
Situated between London Bridge and Tower Bridge, HMS Belfast is now permanently moored and resides as a museum.
Exploring the Royal Navy cruiser is any history buff’s dream but it’s also the perfect option for rainier days.
Exploring the nine decks is no small feat, so take your time – I’d recommend allowing three hours to see everything properly.
You’ll hear tales from her travels around the world and from people who lived on the ship during historical moments like the Korean War and D-Day.
Not only will you leave with a new spout of maritime knowledge, you’ll also be privy to a view no one else on the riverside will have!
8. Hay’s Galleria
Address: 1 Battle Bridge Ln, London SE1 2HD
Phone number: 020 7403 1041
Situated on the south bank of the River Thames, Hay’s Galleria was once at the centre of the trade and shipping port.
Before it was redeveloped in the 1980s (it was modelled on Milan’s famous and chic Galleria on the Piazza del Duomo), it was originally known as Hay’s Wharf in the 1600s, and then the famous Larder of London in the 1800s.
Now, it offers a fantastic range of world-class food, shopping and entertainment.
At Christmas time, it’s particularly beautiful, with a gorgeous Christmas tree in the centre of the arcade, under the striking Victorian-style glass roof.
Surrounded by numerous Christmas huts and a lively bar, it’s the perfect place to get in the festive spirit!
9. Tower Bridge
Address: Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP
Phone number: 020 7403 3761
Recognisable across the world, Tower Bridge is one of London’s most iconic attractions.
With incredible views on either side, you’ll be in awe of the city’s landscape all the way from Canary Wharf to St Paul’s.
For those who would prefer a more thrilling experience, you can visit the high-level walkways and take in the stunning panoramic views from above.
The permanent glass floor feature gives visitors an incredible birds-eye view of London life!
However, the views at night are particularly enjoyable, so a walk across the bridge can be just as satisfying as braving the heights of the walkway.
10. Uber Boat from London Bridge City Pier
Address: London Bridge City Pier, The Queen’s Walk, London SE1 2QP
Give your weary legs a rest and take in the iconic landmarks from the water!
One of the best things about central London is getting the Uber Boat.
No underground or stuffy buses – just fuss-free and accessible.
All you have to do is tap in!
It’s one of the best ways to see the city and you don’t even need to get off.
For the full sightseeing experience, hitch a ride down to Greenwich then head back West to Putney to relish in the greenery just off the bank side.
Why not make your experience like that of a true commuter and grab a drink from the bar?
11. White Cube Gallery
Address: 144 – 152 Bermondsey Street, London SE1 3TQ
Phone number: 020 7930 5373
There’s a lot to love about Bermondsey Street but White Cube Gallery is a true gem.
It may look plain and uninviting on the outside but the inside of the gallery is full of colourful collections by contemporary artists.
Found amongst the quaint pubs and shops of Bermondsey High Street, the renovated 1970s building is in the perfect location.
It forms a third of a collection of White Cube galleries, with the others located in Hong Kong and Mason’s Yard in Central London.
Hosting an extensive programme of international artists, the groundbreaking gallery is completely free!
12. Visit a local music venue
In search of some new music to add to your playlist?
Well, you don’t have to look too far as London Bridge has multiple local venues to choose from!
One venue you definitely won’t want to miss is Omeara.
This prime spot hosts artists over Brit Week and Independent Venue Week, making it the ideal place to discover up-and-coming talent.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a unique setting to enjoy some new tunes, then Amazing Grace is a great new spot to try.
It’s set in a 17th-century church and has a huge main bar, with plenty of comfy seating.
The bonus is its mezzanine balcony, where you get a fantastic view of the stage below!
13. Flat Iron Square
Address: 45 Southwark St, London SE1 9HP
Positioned perfectly around the corner from the Omeara, Flat Iron Square is an excellent pre-gig destination.
Nestled in the arches of the railway track the area has a brewery, taproom and beer garden, equipped with heaters for those chillier evenings.
If the drinks aren’t enough to entice you, the selection of food should.
There are plenty of mouth-watering options to pick from, including Gamekeeper’s BBQ dishes, Good Slice’s perfect pizza, Lil Watan’s Lebanese, and Latin-inspired Streat Arepas.
Just order from your table and you’ll be notified when it’s ready to collect!
It might not be the first place you think of when you think ‘pub quiz’ but their weekly ‘Never Going To Quiz You Up’ is a popular night out.
Pop down to Arch 33 on a Tuesday evening with your A-team and put test your knowledge to win big prizes!
First come, first serve, so get there early!
14. The Clink Prison Museum
Address: 1 Clink Street, London SE1 9DG
Phone number: 020 7403 0900
The Clink Prison Museum dates back to 1144 making it one of England’s oldest and most notorious prisons.
Positioned in the heart of modern-day Southwark and built on the original site, The Clink Prison Museum presents the scandalous truth of Old Bankside through a hands-on experience.
There are opportunities to view archaeological artefacts, experience the sights, sounds and smells of the prison, handle torture devices, and hear all about the tales of torment and many misfortunes of the inmates of the infamous Clink Prison.
When you emerge from the museum into the hustle and bustle of visitors between Borough and Bankside, you’ll feel like you’ve time-travelled to the future.
15. London Bridge Rooftop
Address: Rooftop Colechurch House, London Bridge Walk SE1 2SX
Phone number: 020 3576 0674
With a fantastic view of The Shard and the London Eye, London Bridge Rooftop is one of my favourite cocktail bars in London Bridge.
The directions for finding it might feel relatively vague: “Once on London Bridge Walk, look for the ‘On Your Bike’ cycle shop – we are a few doors down behind the double doors with Beefeaters.”
No one would blame you for thinking you’d been misled, but this buzzing bar is one of London Bridge’s best-kept secrets.
Their cocktails are not to be missed (I’d go for an old-fashioned!) so if you’re looking for an idyllic way to round off your afternoon, why not grab an early evening tipple and watch the sunset over the city?
It’s also one of my favourite venues for a rooftop bottomless brunch in London.
Because who can say no to bottomless booze with a view?!
16. The Scoop
Address: The Scoop at More, London SE1 2AA
This outdoor amphitheatre is positioned under the shadow of the Old City Hall.
In the summertime, The Scoop becomes a vibrant cultural hub where you can watch blockbuster movies, participate in fitness classes, and bop along to live bands put on by BBC Introducing and local music venues like Hootannay.
And the best part is that they’re all free!
However, the biggest draw for the ‘City by the River’ is Massaoke.
The fun and freeing activity brings together hundreds of people to sing well-known classics like Oasis, Journey, and Bon Jovi.
An instant mood booster, this heart-warming sing-along is not one to miss!
17. London Bridge Ghost Walking Tour
Address: The Bunch Of Grapes, 2 St Thomas St, London SE1 9RS
Phone number: 01300 390119
If you’re brave enough, why not explore the haunted side of London Bridge with the London Bridge Ghost Walking Tour?
Although the area is now a hub of vibrant and exciting nightlife, it’s hard to ignore its mysterious history.
The ghost tour will give you a fascinating glimpse into the area’s past and is guaranteed to give you goosebumps.
The hour-and-a-half tour takes you through the area’s most mysterious and spooky locations, where you’ll hear tales of body snatches, restless spirits, and pub-haunting ghosts.
The expert guides share their knowledge of the area’s unnerving past and give you an insight into the creepy happenings that apparently still haunt the area to this day.
18. The London Bridge Experience & Tombs
Address: The London Bridge Experience, 2-4 Tooley Street, London SE1 2SY
Phone number: 020 7403 6333
If a ghost tour isn’t enough for you, look no further than The London Bridge Experience & Tombs.
This interactive experience takes you on a journey through the city’s gruesome past, but be warned, it’s not for the faint-hearted!
The first half of the tour is educational, giving you a fascinating insight into the city’s dark history.
But once you enter the tombs, all bets are off.
This scare attraction is built on the site of an old plague pit and is filled with terrifying surprises that are bound to make you jump and scream.
Despite the scare factor, the Tombs is an experience that you won’t forget in a hurry.
However, if you’re not a fan of jump scares and heart-pumping thrills, this may not be the activity for you.
(Don’t say I didn’t warn you!)
19. Bermondsey Antique Market
Address: 11 Bermondsey Sq, London SE1 3UN
Looking for something a little bit different?
Then head to Bermondsey Antique Market, one of the best antique shopping spots in Europe!
This historic London antique market has a wide range of antiques and is a wonderful way to discover something new.
The market is popular with antique traders, tourists, and bargain hunters alike, shopping for everything from cutlery to furniture and china to jewellery and the unexpected.
20. Local green spaces
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city after a long day of exploring, why not take a breather in one of the many green spaces in the area?
Many of the gardens are community-led so you know they’re well looked after.
Some of the best spots include All Hallows Church Yard, Marlborough Sports Gardens, Mint Street Park, and Red Cross Garden.
Who knows, you might find your new favourite lunch spot!
21. Tate Modern
Address: Tate Modern, Bankside, London SE1 9TG
Phone number: 020 7887 8888
No trip to London is complete without a visit to the Tate Modern.
This ginormous building is home to modern and contemporary art from all over the world.
You can spend the entire day getting lost looking at paintings and sculptures by Picasso, Holzer, and Kngwarreye.
But one of the most captivating parts of the Tate is the Turbine Hall.
Dedicated to new artistic ideas, you can sit on the slanted walkway and take in the art installations that surround you.
Aside from the exhibitions, the gallery is completely free, so you can keep coming back as much as you’d like.
Then just outside the building, you can enjoy a fantastic view of the Millennium Bridge and listen to talented buskers nearby.
22. Fashion and Textile Museum
Address: 83 Bermondsey Street, London SE1 3XF
Phone number: 020 7407 8664
The Fashion and Textile Museum is the only museum in the UK dedicated to showcasing contemporary fashion and textile design.
It’s committed to presenting varied, creative, and engaging exhibitions.
It’s worth checking what is on before your visit as it no longer has a permanent collection.
However, you’re unlikely to be disappointed as instead, it offers a diverse programme of temporary exhibitions.
If you want to take it one step further, why not learn more about the processes behind the textiles or even how to make your own?
The museum offers workshops on pattern cutting, copying your clothes, and silk painting.
This is all in addition to a selection of talks and events!
23. Shakespeare’s Globe
Address: 21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT
Phone number: 020 7401 9919
Experience an afternoon at the home of Britain’s most famous playwright!
Shakespeare’s Globe is a reconstruction of the Globe Theatre, an Elizabethan playhouse for which William Shakespeare wrote his plays.
It’s a world-renowned performing arts venue, cultural attraction, and education centre.
So you can either visit the historic venue on a guided tour or as a spectator (or both!).
If you’re staying for the action, the best place to be is standing in the stalls.
This used to be the spot for the ‘peasants’ who couldn’t afford the royal boxes, but now, it’s one of the best places to be immersed in the action.
The Globe has a packed schedule all throughout the year so come rain or shine you catch some of the Shakespeare Company’s many talented stars putting on their best “To be or not to be”.
24. The Old Operating Theatre Museum
Address: St Thomas’ Church, 9A St Thomas’ Street, London SE1 9RY
Phone number: 020 7188 2679
On the grounds of the original St Thomas’ Hospital, The Old Operating Theatre is a museum of surgical history and one of the oldest surviving operating theatres.
Predating antiseptics and anaesthetics, the attic includes a Herb Garret which was used to dry and store medicines for patients.
You’re bound to hear tales of what went on at the operating theatre if you go on the ghost tour.
But if you’re looking for a more unique insight into the history of medicine and surgery then a visit here is a must!
25. Maltby Street Market
Address: Maltby St, Ropewalk, Bermondsey, London SE1 3PA
If you’re intimidated by the crowds at Borough Market on the weekend, why not try something different?
Maltby Street Market opened in 2010 and it’s quickly becoming a popular weekend destination.
Today, the viaduct that carried the railway which disrupted the area in 1836, provides a home for the market and many other food and beverage traders in Bermondsey.
This makes it both a historic and picturesque square to visit.
It’s also the supposed starting point for the Bermondsey Beer Mile, a well-known reference to the brewery bars and bottle shops located along a stretch of the railway arch.
After you’ve browsed the fresh produce or demolished a classic sausage sandwich at Bangers Catering, why not while away your Saturday afternoon with a pub crawl in some of London’s finest breweries?
Hawkes Cider is one of my favourites!
It has a great selection of ciders and pizzas, and they sometimes even host comedy nights.
26. Treat yourself to a delicious coffee in a unique location
Whether you want to sit and watch the world go by or to find a relaxing place to chill, London isn’t short of coffee shops.
But Lily London is something special!
Towards the end of St Thomas’ Street, a short walk from London Bridge Station, you’ll find Lily’s London serving coffee from inside one of London’s iconic red phone boxes.
Yep, that’s right: a phone box.
A small phone box equipped with a machine serving Brazilian coffee imported directly from Brazil, Lily’s Coffee is the picture-perfect set-up in front of The Shard.
But that’s not the best part!
The coffee shop is part of a scheme that employs the homeless to help them learn valuable life skills.
Even if you’re not a coffee connoisseur, what could be more fun than starting your day with a perfectly curated coffee from one of London’s most recognisable attractions?
Other cool coffee spots in the area include FLOW, Mouse Tail, FCB, and Monmouth in Borough Market.
27. The Bridge Theatre
Address: The Bridge Theatre, 3 Potters Fields Park, London SE1 2SG
Phone number: 0333 320 0051
The Bridge Theatre is the home of the London Theatre Company.
In a conscious move away from London’s traditional West End theatre district, its auditorium is designed to be flexible and adaptable for a variety of performances, including new shows and reinvented classics.
Although the theatre puts on traditional stage shows, it’s best known for its hugely successful immersive shows.
Its beautiful spacious foyer is one of its alluring attractions, but its proximity to London Bridge station and the surrounding area is a bonus.
Located just off Potter’s Field Park, you can take an evening stroll down the front of the riverside before settling in your seats for one of their spectacular shows.
28. Drink like Dicken’s at London’s last galleried inn
Address: 75-77 Borough High Street, Southwark, Greater London SE1 1NH
Phone number: 020 7407 2056
Looking for a true pub experience?
Then look no further than George, London’s last galleried inn.
Built in the 16th century, this pub is a staple and a must-visit for anyone in the area!
Tucked away just off Borough High Street, you’ll find tourists, locals, and commuters enjoying a tipple or two, or tucking into their delicious Sunday roasts.
The pub has multiple stories and its quirky inside is part of its charm.
However, if you’d prefer to admire its galleries from the outside, the spacious courtyard is a great spot.
(Especially in the sun, but fear not because in rainy weather the umbrellas will keep you dry!)
If you’re an avid sports fan the pub’s buzzing atmosphere is the perfect companion on match day.
Want to continue your exploration of historic pubs?
Head along the bankside and visit The Old Thameside Inn or The Anchor.
29. Potters Field Park
Address: 189 Tooley St, London SE1 2UD
Phone number: 020 7036 6410
Potters Field Park is the perfect way to while away a spring or summer afternoon.
Grab a blanket and a book and enjoy the city sites in solitude while you watch tourists and locals go about their busy days.
Or, why not gather your friends for an afternoon picnic?
Over the warmer months, you’ll see plenty of people out on the grass celebrating birthdays, baby showers, and graduations.
Right underneath the Tower Bridge, take a moment to delight in being in what has to be one of the most prestigious picnic spots in the city.
Picnic basket getting empty?
The central location also means everything you need is just a short walk away!
30. Southwark Cathedral
Address: Southwark Cathedral, London Bridge, London SE1 9DA
Phone number: 020 7367 6700
Southwark Cathedral lies on the south bank of the River Thames, conveniently close to Borough Market.
Free to explore, it’s London’s oldest Gothic Cathedral and is now a thriving modern church.
It includes a commemorative window for William Shakespeare and a chapel in celebration of the founder of Harvard University.
If you head into Humphrey’s Yard, you might spot a new stone carving on the retrochoir commemorating Doorkins Magnificat, the cathedral’s cat from 2008 to 2020.
He’s even had a book written about him!
31. The Queen’s Walk
Take a stroll along the Queen’s Walk on the waterfront and watch the boats bobbing along the River Thames.
You can stop for a drink at The Hornimans at Hay, explore Hay’s Galleria, or just enjoy the breathtaking views of the city across the water.
You’ll see the city’s standout ‘Walkie-Talkie’ building, home to the popular Sky Garden bar and restaurant.
You’ll also see the historic Tower of London sitting in front of the Thames, right next to Tower Bridge.
And if you time it right, you might even spot the bridge opening its bascules.
At Christmas time, the walk is a parade of market stalls covered in glistening Christmas lights, selling homemade gifts, mulled wine, and a delicious array of cuisines.
A visit here is definitely one of my favourite things to do in London at Christmas!
So there you have it: my round-up of all the best things to do in London Bridge!
London Bridge truly is at the heart of the action so it’s not surprising that there are so many great things to do here.
Choose your favourite things to do in London Bridge and plan a fun day out in the capital!