London Bridge is not only an important crossing bridge over the River Thames but also a gateway to some of London’s most fascinating historical sites and attractions. This iconic bridge has held strategic and economic significance for centuries, connecting the city and influencing its development. 

From the towering fortress of the Tower of London to the charming Borough Market, the area near London Bridge offers a rich blend of history and culture. Whether you're interested in exploring London’s past or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, there’s plenty to see and do near this famous landmark.

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What contributes to the popularity of London Bridge? 

London Bridge is an important part of London's history and plays a big role in its culture. It connects the City of London with the Southwark area and is a central spot for many cultural activities. For example, nearby Borough Market is a great place for visitors to experience local food and history. The Romans built the first bridge here around AD 50, and since then, it has been rebuilt several times, with the most recent version opening in 1973. Today, London Bridge is a busy route for commuters and a popular place for tourists. It's close to major sights like the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and the Shard. The bridge is also known from the nursery rhyme "London Bridge is Falling," which adds to its cultural significance.

 Below is a graph showing how many visitors visit the place yearly. Despite a big drop in visitors in 2020 and 2021 due to global events, numbers have bounced back, showing its lasting appeal.

What are the popular things to do near London Bridge?

Plenty of things can be done near London Bridge, and the most popular are given below: 

1. Explore the historic Tower of London

2. Stroll through Borough Market

3. Visit the Shard's viewing gallery

4. Enjoy a show at the Shakespeare's Globe

5. Relax at Potters Fields Park

6. Discover sea life at SEA LIFE London Aquarium

7. Walk across Tower Bridge

8. Learn at the HMS Belfast

9. Unwind at Hay’s Galleria

10. Experience art at Tate Modern
    

Explore the Tower of London

The Tower of London, part of the historic Royal Palaces, is just a stone’s throw away from London Bridge. Visitors often leave glowing reviews, highlighting how special this part of London is. Travellers can admire the Crown Jewels, hear about the tower’s grim history from the Yeoman Warders, and see the famous ravens. It's a must-do for anyone interested in the deep history that shapes London.

• Reviews: 4.7/5 on Google Reviews

• Address: St Katharine's & Wapping, London EC3N 4AB, United Kingdom

• Distance from London Bridge: Approximately 0.8 miles

• Timings: 09:00 AM - 5:30 PM

• Best for: History buffs and families

• Best time to visit: Early morning to avoid crowds

• Website: www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london

• Entrance fee: Adults 18-64 age £35.80, Children 5-15 £19.80

• Time spent on activity: 2-3 hours

What people are saying:

Stroll through Borough Market

Borough Market is one of London's largest and oldest food markets, just a short walk from London Bridge. It offers a vibrant atmosphere where food lovers can explore various local and international delicacies. Whether sampling artisan cheeses or freshly baked breads, Borough Market caters to every taste.

• Reviews: 4.6/5 on Google Reviews

• Address: 8 Southwark St, London SE1 1TL, United Kingdom

• Distance from London Bridge: Approximately 0.5 miles

• Timings: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Mon-Thurs), 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Fri), 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Sat), Closed on Sunday

• Best for: Food lovers and casual tourists

• Best time to visit: Lunchtime on weekdays for the best experience

• Website: www.boroughmarket.org.uk

• Entrance fee: Free entry

• Time spent on activity: 1-2 hours

What people are saying:

Visit the Shard's Viewing Gallery

The Shard's viewing gallery offers unparalleled views of London's skyline. Located on the 72nd floor, it's a perfect spot for breathtaking panoramic photographs and seeing the city from an eagle's eye perspective, especially magical at sunset.

• Reviews: 4.6/5 on Google Reviews

• Address: 32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG, United Kingdom

• Distance from London Bridge: Less than 0.1 miles (directly adjacent to the bridge)

• Timings: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

• Best for: Couples and photographers

• Best time to visit: Sunset for breathtaking views

• Website: www.the-shard.com 

• Entrance fee: From £25 per adult

• Time spent on activity: 1-2 hours

What people are saying:

Enjoy a Show at Shakespeare's Globe

Shakespeare's Globe is a reconstruction of the historic playhouse for which William Shakespeare wrote his famous plays. Visitors can enjoy authentic Shakespearean performances in an open-air setting, providing a dive back into the Elizabethan era. There are guided tours available for tourists, which are both educational and entertaining. Additionally, there are plenty of excellent dining options between the Globe and the London Eye for those looking to eat out.

• Reviews: 4.6/5 on Google Reviews

• Address: 21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT, United Kingdom

• Distance from London Bridge: Approximately 0.5 miles

• Timings: Varies by show

• Best for: Culture seekers and literary fans

• Best time to visit: Evening performances

• Website: www.shakespearesglobe.com 

• Entrance fee: Varies by the show, typically from £5 for yard standing to £59 for best seats

• Time spent on activity: 2-3 hours

What people are saying:

Relax at Potters Fields Park

Located next to City Hall and the iconic Tower Bridge, Potters Fields Park is a small green oasis in the heart of London. It's ideal for a relaxing break from the bustling city life, with beautiful lawns and stunning views of the Thames.

• Reviews: 4.5/5 on Google Reviews

• Address: Potters Fields Park, London SE1 2AA, United Kingdom

• Distance from London Bridge: Approximately 0.3 miles

• Timings: Open 24 hours

• Best for: Families and solo travellers

• Best time to visit: Sunny afternoons

• Website: No specific website

• Entrance fee: Free

• Website: https://pottersfields.co.uk 

• Time spent on activity: 30 minutes to 1 hour

What people are saying:

Discover Sea Life at SEA LIFE London Aquarium

SEA LIFE London Aquarium offers an interactive journey into the world of the deep blue sea, featuring everything from exotic sharks to colourfull clownfish. It's a fantastic educational outing that captivates children and adults alike.

• Reviews: 4.2/5 on Google Reviews

• Address: County Hall, Riverside Building, London SE1 7PB, United Kingdom

• Distance from London Bridge: Approximately 1.8 miles

• Timings: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM

• Best for: Families with children

• Best time to visit: Weekday mornings to avoid crowds

• Website: https://www.visitsealife.com/london/

• Entrance fee: From £24 per adult online

• Time spent on activity: 1-2 hours

What people are saying:

Walk Across Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge, not to be confused with London Bridge, is an iconic symbol of London. Visitors can walk across the bridge or visit the Tower Bridge Exhibition, which explains the history and engineering behind this marvel.

• Reviews: 4.8/5 on Google Reviews

• Address: Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP, United Kingdom

• Distance from London Bridge: Approximately 0.5 miles

• Timings: 09:30 AM - 6:00 PM

• Best for: First-time visitors

• Best time to visit: Early morning or late evening

• Website: www.towerbridge.org.uk

• Entrance fee: Adults £10.60, Children £5.30

• Time spent on activity: 1 hour

What people are saying:

Learn at HMS Belfast

HMS Belfast is a historic warship and now a floating museum on the River Thames. It offers a glimpse into naval life during some of the most significant naval campaigns of the 20th century, including WWII.

• Reviews: 4.5/5 on Google Reviews

• Address: The Queen's Walk, London SE1 2JH, United Kingdom

• Distance from London Bridge: Approximately 0.3 miles

• Timings: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

• Best for: History enthusiasts and families

• Best time to visit: Midday for guided tours

• Website: www.iwm.org.uk/visits/hms-belfast 

• Entrance fee: Adults £19, Children £9.50

• Time spent on activity: 1-2 hours

What people are saying:

Unwind at Hay’s Galleria

Hay’s Galleria is a unique shopping and dining venue within a beautifully converted warehouse. It combines luxury and history with a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a stroll. Originally known as Hay’s Wharf, the area now called Hay’s Galleria has evolved from its industrial roots to become a popular spot for eating, drinking, working, and shopping.

• Reviews: 4.4/5 on Google Reviews

• Address: 1 Battle Bridge Ln, London SE1 2HD, United Kingdom

• Distance from London Bridge: Approximately 0.2 miles

• Timings: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

• Best for: Shoppers and history lovers

• Best time to visit: Weekday afternoons

• Website: https://www.hays-galleria.com/ 

• Entrance fee: Free

• Time spent on activity: 30 minutes to 1 hour

What people are saying:

Experience Art at Tate Modern

Tate Modern is a leading modern art gallery in the former Bankside Power Station. It houses works by artists such as Picasso, Rothko, Dali, and Matisse, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts. Some traveller wrote, “It's a fantastic gallery for anyone who loves modern art. While some exhibits might not appeal to everyone, it's still an incredible place to explore.”

• Reviews: 4.7/5 on Google Reviews

• Address: Bankside, London SE1 9TG, United Kingdom

• Distance from London Bridge: Approximately 0.7 miles

• Timings: Monday to Sunday 10.00-18.00

• Best for: Art lovers and intellectuals

• Best time to visit: Late afternoon to avoid crowds

• Website: www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern 

• Entrance fee: Free, charges for special exhibitions

• Time spent on activity: 2-3 hours

What people are saying:

Additional Tips to Keep in Mind When Exploring Near London Bridge

For travellers seeking to make the most of their time near London Bridge, here are some additional tips that will enhance your experience and ensure a memorable visit:

• Book Online: For attractions like The Shard's Viewing Gallery or shows at Shakespeare's Globe, booking tickets in advance is advisable to secure a spot and often save on admission fees.

• Check for Discounts: Look for discounts or combo tickets with multiple attractions. This can be a great way to save money if you plan to visit several sites listed.

• Use Public Transport: Most of these attractions are well-connected by London’s public transport. Using the Tube, buses, or even river ferries can be a cost-effective and efficient way to get around.

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Most recommended activities involve walking, so comfortable footwear will enhance your experience.

• Check the Weather: London's weather can be unpredictable. Before starting your day, checking the forecast can help you decide the best places to visit and what to wear.

• Enjoy Local Dining: The area around London Bridge, especially Borough Market, offers a variety of culinary delights. Plan to explore these options for lunch or snacks during your visit.

• Visit During Off-Peak Hours: Popular sites like the Tower of London and The Shard are less crowded during early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays, making these ideal times for a visit.

So, what are you waiting for? Let's start on the journey of surprises. Whether nibbling on gourmet bites at Borough Market or catching the sunset from the Shard, life near the Bridge is never dull. So, pull on your comfiest sneakers, charge your camera, and let the historic cobbles guide you to unexpected delights. Who knows? The best of London might just be a bridge-cross away!