South Bank Walk: Westminster Bridge to Tower Bridge, Map

The South Bank is the simplest long walk in central London. Start at Westminster Bridge, keep the Thames on your left, and you reach Tower Bridge in about an hour without needing a map at every corner.

Allow two to three hours if you plan to stop. The walking itself is free; only the attractions along the way charge for entry.

Where does the South Bank walk start?

Start on Westminster Bridge, with the Houses of Parliament behind you, and come down to the river on the south side. Walking east means the best-known views come first and the route ends at a landmark rather than a street corner.

London Eye to the Southbank Centre

The London Eye is the first big stop and the busiest stretch of the path. Past it, the Southbank Centre gives you cafes, toilets and an indoor break. In the festive season, the riverside stalls here are the easiest market to fold into this walk; see the London Christmas markets guide for dates and hours.

Tate Modern and Southwark Cathedral

Continue under the bridges to Tate Modern, a former power station with free general admission to much of the collection; check the official site for exhibitions and times. The path then leaves the very edge of the river in places as it winds toward Southwark Cathedral, so follow the signs rather than expecting one straight line.

How do you finish at Tower Bridge?

The last stretch runs along the river to the south end of Tower Bridge. From here, London Bridge station is the simple way back. If you still have energy, cross the bridge on foot for Tower Hill station.

Is the South Bank walk step-free?

Step-free access along the whole route has not been verified. Access guides report steps at several bridge connections, including Westminster Bridge and Waterloo Bridge. Check the ramp or street-level alternative for each join, and confirm any works before you go.

What if it rains?

Most of the path is open to wind and rain. The Southbank Centre and Tate Modern work as indoor stops during their opening hours, so a wet day can be split into two shorter stretches.

For where this fits in a longer trip, see the London guide.