London Bridge is one of the most central areas in the city, and as you might expect there is a lot to see and do.
It was the home to the Greater London Authority until 2021, and holds some of the city’s most popular attractions.
The Thames cuts right through the middle of it, and the area encompasses a good chunk of the city centre- from London Bridge itself, all the way to Tower Bridge. The north shore of the river in this area is part of the City of London, where the Roman empire established the town of Londinium nearly 2,000 years ago- so there is a fair bit of history here!
Book a room in the stunning Park Grand Lancaster Gate Hotel where you’ll find one of the best Lancaster Gate restaurants offering a delicious and unique helping of Indian afternoon tea. London Bridge is right on the doorstep of this incredible area thanks to the amazing public transport links, so get ready to explore.
Now let’s take a look at all the best things on offer in the London Bridge area.
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is probably the first thing you’ll notice when you’re in the area- and for good reason.
It’s one of the most beautiful and iconic bridges in the world, and is a feat of engineering.
You can actually tour the engine rooms, visit the old control room and even take a peek into the bascule arm rooms.
If you’re a bit of an adrenaline junky then you can head to the top of the towers and cross the Thames at a height of 43 metres on a glass footbridge! If that doesn’t get your blood pumping I don’t know what will.
One of the finest sights in London is getting the chance to watch the stunning bridge open to allow a ship’s passage, so try and time your visit well!
The Tower of London
Immediately next to Tower Bridge is the Tower of London- obviously.
The Tower is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions, and one of the oldest buildings around.
It was built after the 1066 Norman invitation of Britain and has a fascinating past.
It has acted as a King’s menagerie, a prison, a torture chamber, an execution ground, the royal mint, an armoury- the list really does go on.
You can visit the castle and get a tour with one of the Yeoman Warders, or ‘Beefeaters’, who are charged with guarding the incredible castle. You’ll get to explore the deepest corners of the castle and listen out for the screams of Guy Fawkes in the torture chambers below.
The Shard
The Shard is the second tallest building in Europe, and offers a pretty darn good view of the entire city and beyond from the viewing platform on the 73rd floor.
You can head up the tower and visit the restaurants, bars or simply head straight to the viewing area.
Going at sunset as the city lights turn on for the night can be the most dramatic time to visit, and seeing the sun set from a height is truly stunning.
Sky Garden
The Sky Garden can be found just across the river from the Shard- and it is totally free to visit.
It’s a garden on the top of a building known by locals as the ‘Walkie Talkie’ due to its distinctive shape, and it offers some pretty great views.
There is also a restaurant and bar at the top so you can dine or drink in style while you admire the view.
Borough Market
Borough Market is one of the best spots in the city, and should be very high up on your list.
It is one of the best food markets in the world with incredible artisanal goods, fresh groceries, beautiful produce and truly stunning baked goods.
You’ll find amazing coffee here and it is one of the best places in the city to grab a delicious lunch with well over 100 different vendors offering cuisine from all over the world.
HMS Belfast
HMS Belfast is a living museum that floats on the Thames.
She’s a retired battleship that has seen some pretty incredible action; from D-Day to the arctic circle and the Korean War.
This incredibly historic ship is open to be explored so you can experience what life was like for the soldiers that manned her.
The ship is moored on the Thames between London bridge and Tower Bridge.
The Golden Hinde
The Golden Hinde is another incredibly famous ship- although this one is unfortunately a replica.
The original Hinde was captained by none other than Sir Francis Drake and was scrapped, but this is a true to life replica of the ship that circumnavigated the world.
Experience the brutal life at sea in the 1500s for the men aboard this incredible vessel.
The London Bridge Experience and Tombs
The London Bridge Experience is a one of a kind attraction that allows you to access the catacombs beneath the city.
You’ll come across all kinds of monsters (played by actors of course) whilst you are down there, and you’ll learn about London’s dark and bloody past.
It’s a great activity, but not for the faint of heart.
River Cruise
Enjoying a river cruise is probably the ultimate way to see the city.
Climb aboard a boat and enjoy the city from a whole new perspective as you cruise along the Thames learning about the staggering landmarks that you pass along the way.
Some of London’s most incredible buildings sit on the banks of the river, and experiencing them from the water offers them in a whole new light.
London Bridge and Beyond
London Bridge is one of the most visited areas in the city thanks to the stunning history and awesome attractions it contains.
Make sure you explore this stunning area thoroughly, and take full advantage of your room in the Park Grand Lancaster Gate Hotel, currently offering some of the best London hotel deals with breakfast included.
Now is your chance to explore Lonodn- so what are you waiting for?
