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Things to do in South Bank

Our most recommended things to do in South Bank

London: River Thames Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Cruise

1. London: River Thames Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Cruise

Explore the River Thames as it weaves through the heart of London and discover fascinating history around every bend. Today, you can experience the splendor of this great city from the relaxed comfort of a modern, all-weather and wheelchair-friendly sightseeing boat. Informative commentary interlaced with colorful tales of the city's past will keep your mind engaged as you cruise down the Thames! Cruises depart frequently from Westminster Pier, Greenwich Pier, London Eye Pier, and Tower Pier, sailing every day of the year except Christmas Day. With a regular timetable, and evening cruises all summer, you can enjoy a full-day on the river in comfort. Hop on and off the boat as many times as you wish to explore sights such as the Cutty Sark, the Royal Observatory, Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tate Modern, Borough Market, South Bank Centre, and the London Eye. Or grab a refreshment from the on-board bar and relax as you sail past Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Bridge, the Royal Festival Hall, Cleopatra's Needle, Somerset House, the Millennium Footbridge, Shakespeare's Globe, Monument, H.M.S.Belfast, and much more. During the festive season from December to January, all boats will be decorated and kids will get Christmas coloring sheet and pencils to keep them entertained while parents relax by sipping on a cup of mulled wine and a mince pie from our fully stocked bar. 'Tis the season to be jolly!

London: River Thames Speed Boat Tour

2. London: River Thames Speed Boat Tour

Experience a wild and fantastic River Thames boat cruise that is fun for all ages. You will climb aboard a high-speed vessel that offers non-traditional views of England's capital at speeds of up to 30 knots. You will be given a full safety briefing and a life jacket - just in case! Named by leading listings magazine Time Out as a "must-do" experience, both visitors and residents of London will be thrilled with this outing. Speed under the capital’s bridges, and marvel at landmarks such as the London Eye, Houses of Parliament and South Bank from an exclusive vantage point. Music floats through the air via the onboard sound system, as you power out toward the Docklands. High-brow banter is provided by an award-winning comedian guide, whose cheery anecdotes include narration about the headquarters of MI5 and the modern skyscrapers of Canary Wharf.

London: Vintage Bus Tour and London Eye Ticket

3. London: Vintage Bus Tour and London Eye Ticket

Travel back in time on a 4-hour tour of London. The combined sightseeing tour includes a ride on a vintage double-decker Routemaster bus and a short trip along the River Thames. End your excursion with spectacular views of the city from one of the panoramic pods of the London Eye. Head off for a tour of the city onboard a vintage double-decker bus. Pass historic attractions such as the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and the Tower of London. Admire Sir Christopher Wren’s iconic St. Paul’s Cathedral. Swap land for water and take a short trip along the River Thames, looking out for Shakespeare’s Globe, HMS Belfast, London Bridge, and much more. Back on dry land, re-join the bus and head for Buckingham Palace, home to the British royal family. On the morning tour, you'll arrive in time to see the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony, as soldiers dressed in their iconic uniforms march to military music. If there is no Changing of the Guard, you'll have a photo stop at the palace instead. Complete your London excursion with spectacular views across London’s rooftops as you enjoy a complete circuit of the London Eye, the world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel. Settle into one of the 32 high-tech glass capsules, which take approximately 30 minutes to revolve entirely. See Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey from a unique, elevated perspective.

Love London 3-Hour Bike Tour

4. Love London 3-Hour Bike Tour

Enjoy a 3-hour afternoon bike ride around central London to see many of the city’s most historic sites. Meet your guide on the south bank of the River Thames, close to the Southbank arts complex, and select your bike. Then, head into the back streets of Waterloo and for the first 'Theatre' stop, Kevin Spacey's Old Vic. Banksy's graffiti tunnel installation follows the street food markets of Lower Marsh, and all of a sudden, it's back onto the river at the majestic Lambeth Palace, the residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury (the Church of England's equivalent of the Pope!). Cycle along the River Thames to Lambeth Palace, one of London's oldest buildings, and home of the head of The Church of England. Now, cross to the north side of the river to explore the lanes of traditional red brick houses, cycling though a back gate into Westminster Abbey School courtyard, the first school in England. Just outside the school, you will be standing on the place where so many kings and queens have had their coronation, and been buried in the crypt of Westminster Abbey. Cycle past Horse Guard’s Parade - site of the 2012 Olympic Beach Volleyball Competition - St. James's Park, Clarence House, and Buckingham Palace, the Queen’s official London residence. Then, bike up Constitution Hill into the open spaces of Hyde Park. From Hyde Park, travel through the exclusive Mayfair district, past the US Embassy, New Bond Street, Carnaby Street, and into Soho, the party center of London. Pedal to Covent Garden, home of the Royal Opera House, street theater, and much more. The trip is nearly over, as you wind your way back to the river and cross Waterloo Bridge, where you will get one of the best views of London on a curve of the river.

London: Tower of London Opening Ceremony & Westminster Tour

5. London: Tower of London Opening Ceremony & Westminster Tour

You’re invited to the opening ceremony at the Tower of London, to be first in to explore the Crown Jewels, to join us on an adventure from the old City to the regal city of Westminster. Welcome to the Ultimate Royal London experience. Why join the queue when you can be first into the Tower of London to enjoy the opening ceremony led by a Beefeater and see the Crown Jewels without the crowds? We’re about to read you the story of London, a tale of two cities where you’ll be exploring from crowns to confessions. After benefiting from early access and a special ceremony with the Beefeaters, you’ll explore the Tower that has been keeping a watchful eye over the city and the river Thames since its founding in the 11th-century. Meet your expert English-speaking guide who will give you the lowdowns and highlights of this historic fortress before you go inside to enjoy the Opening Ceremony and discover it on your own. Rejoin your guide for a relaxing boat ride on the River Thames, alighting in the royal city of Westminster to take a walking tour of the iconic landmarks that dot these streets like jewels - Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace. You’ll even have time to get snaps with the snazzily dressed mounted cavalry- all paired with the incredible stories, anecdotes and historical gems shared by your expert guide. Come saunter with us for this well-paced crash course into London’s royal history that you’ll never forget.

Full-Day London Sightseeing Tour – Historic & Modern

6. Full-Day London Sightseeing Tour – Historic & Modern

Compare and contrast medieval and modern London on a full-day sightseeing tour of some of the city’s most iconic attractions. Departing from the Victoria district near Buckingham Palace, you will take a whistle-stop tour of London’s famous monuments, and stop to visit St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London. Have your cameras at the ready as you drive past Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. Gaze across the river at the London Eye and the South Bank. Drive down streets lined with architecture from all eras, from the white Portland stone buildings of Belgravia, to the glass-and-steel skyscrapers of the City of London. Towering high over the City is Sir Christopher Wren’s magnificent St. Paul’s Cathedral, widely considered to be his masterpiece. You will jump off the coach to enter the quire, and marvel at the cathedral’s beautiful mosaics. Another highlight of your tour will be the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, held daily at 11:00 AM. Watch the mounted sentries in their red tunics and bearskins perform one of the oldest of the royals’ ceremonies. Then continue the history theme at the Tower of London. The former royal palace and prison’s 1,000 year history will come to life as you take an exclusive walk with a Yeoman Warder, more fondly known as a “Beefeater.” Hear the story of the peasants’ revolt and the assault on the Tower in 1381, the military cunning used to ensure the safety of the monarch within, and how the Tower’s architecture protects it from attack. Finally, swap land for water and cruise down the River Thames. Enjoy panoramic views of London’s riverside attractions, such as the Globe Theater, Tower Bridge, Houses of Parliament, City Hall, and Big Ben. Your full-day adventure ends at Embankment Pier at around 18:00, putting you close to the heart of London’s theater district, Soho, and Chinatown.

London: Classic Highlights Electric Bike Tour

7. London: Classic Highlights Electric Bike Tour

Discover some of the most renowned spots of London on a guided e-bike tour. Explore the city in an environmentally-friendly way and learn about the Westminster and City of London area's history and culture with a guide. Travel all the way from the Houses of Parliament to the Tower of London. Begin in South London, where you will pick up your electric bike and helmet. Head to the political heart of the United Kingdom, Parliament Square. Then, cycle to the home of the British Monarchy, Buckingham Palace, and the King's official London residence. Continue to Trafalgar Square, a must-see for any visitor to London. Hear about the area's history and traditions that make Westminster the epicenter of modern-day London. See Nelson's Column and the 4 lion statues guarding it. From Westminster, cycle east along a cycle highway that runs adjacent to the River Thames, offering spectacular views of the waterfront and other landmarks such as the London Eye. Enjoy several stopping points to take photos, hear stories, and ask questions. In the second half of the tour, you will explore the City of London, the financial and economic hub of the United Kingdom. As you journey by electric bike, pass by sights including St. Paul’s Cathedral, The Guildhall, The Bank of England, and The Tower of London. Uncover stories of London with your guide and end your tour just a short walk from Waterloo Station and the beautiful South Bank, a great spot for lunch or a drink afterward.

London: South Bank Self-Guided Discovery Game

8. London: South Bank Self-Guided Discovery Game

Solve riddles via a web app in your phone’s browser for an unconventional sightseeing experience across London's South Bank. During your game, discover spots that most locals don’t even know about and see popular sights from a different angle. Explore the wonders of one of London’s most exciting neighborhoods with history, street art, and stories of British greats. Enjoy views of the London Eye, colorful art, the Oxo Tower, and a picturesque riverside walk. Curious facts: Get to know more about the city, discover the secrets of the main attractions, and learn about curious facts that you won't read elsewhere. Find monuments and hidden secrets: Our local creator created an interactive walk through the city. Cryptic indications make you wind through the cities streets, inviting you to pay attention to details which you usually won't notice. Once you've arrived at the next stop, you will have to solve a question: open your eyes and mind and use your location to find the right answer! Enjoy: While doing this discovery trail, you will get to know the city from another point of view. Even locals discover new facts while doing secret city trails! This game is suitable for friends, couples, families with kids, and team-building activities. Make memories together while exploring London and get creative to discover the city's secrets.

Great British Food Tour: South Bank and Borough Market

9. Great British Food Tour: South Bank and Borough Market

London is known for its diverse and delicious food scene, and that is evident in the markets that can be found all over the city. On this tour, you will taste plenty of delicious treats from Great Britain and discover the landmarks along the South Bank and River Thames. You will begin your tour along the South Bank which follows the River Thames, stopping at renowned landmarks such as Shakespeare’s Globe, The Anchor Pub and eventually arriving at Borough Market. On either a private tour or in a small group you will discover the South Bank and Borough Market. You will nibble, taste and try food all along the route such as British favorites like scones and pies, while also learning unusual facts and stories about this incredible part of town and its famous landmarks. You will also stop at at traditional British pubs to sample unique ales and beers.

London: Westminster Walking Tour & London Dungeon Entry

10. London: Westminster Walking Tour & London Dungeon Entry

Start with a walking tour of the Westminster area, where your tour guide will escort you to 20 different famous sites. Head through Green Park to Buckingham Palace, admiring the well-manicured trees and flowers along the way. At the palace, watch the world-famous Changing of the Guard Ceremony. Afterward, your tour continues as you see 17 other iconic London sights such as Downing Street, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament. Then, head into the London Dungeon and prepare to be scared. Explore a uniquely thrilling attraction that will whisk you way back to the capital's perilous past. Walk through London's plague-ridden streets. Witness Guy Fawkes as he attempts to blow up Parliament. See Jack the Ripper's horrific Whitechapel. Explore haunting exhibits and sets in the vast underground vaults of County Hall on the South Bank. Watch talented actors bring history to life as they perform in shows with outrageous special effects. Ride the London Dungeon's 2 exciting thrill rides.  During your tour you will see 20 famous landmarks in 1 day, these include: Buckingham Palace, St James Palace, Changing of the Guard, Queen Victoria Fountain, Green Park (Royal park), St James's Park (Royal Park), Admiralty Arch, Pall Mall, Trafalgar Square, Whitehall, The Royal Horse Guard, Horse Guard Parade, Downing Street, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Houses of Parliament, Parliament Square, and the London Eye.

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What people are saying about South Bank

Overall rating

4.5 / 5

based on 3,319 reviews

Brilliant. Fun funny commentary by Bill who was fantastic. Exciting and interesting. It was pouring with rain but made no difference to the trip. Well organised and informative. An absolute must if you are visiting and want a thrilling experience. Bill & Nick ran our trip and they were fabulous. Worth every penny.

It was awesome! Mark and Nathan made it extra fun, the little bits of London history added to the whole experience, I highly recommend this activity!

A great way to visit streets and attractions in London that we would never had the time to see on our own. Our guide was awesome and informative.

Great way to see the sights around the Thames - exhilarating experience with enthusiastic and entertaining crew!

First Class Trip Friendly & Helpful Staff Great Way To See The Sights From The Thames !! Must Do !!