London Bridge serves as a central hub in the city, offering a multitude of attractions within easy walking distance. For consumers seeking cost-effective experiences, a variety of free activities are available, ranging from historic walks and gardens to museums and architectural sites. This article details these options, focusing on practical information for visitors and locals alike.
Getting to London Bridge
Accessing London Bridge is straightforward via London's public transport network. The closest station is London Bridge Underground Station, served by the Jubilee and Northern lines. For instance, from King's Cross St. Pancras, passengers can take the Northern Line towards Morden via Bank and alight at London Bridge. For those preferring buses, routes 17, 21, 35, 43, 47, 133, 141, 149, 344, and 388 all service the area. A single bus journey costs £1.75, with free transfers within a 60-minute window. The TFL Go or Citymapper apps are recommended for real-time route planning.
Free Attractions and Activities
Historic Sites and Gardens
St Dunstan in the East Located at St Dunstan’s Hill, London EC3R 5DD, this site is approximately 0.5 miles (a 13-minute walk) from London Bridge. It is a garden space situated between London Bridge and the Tower of London, offering a peaceful retreat from the city.
All Hallows by the Tower At Byward Street, London EC3R 5BJ, this church is 0.4 miles (an 8-minute walk) from London Bridge. It features a replica display of the old medieval London Bridge. The church also houses a free crypt museum containing Roman and Saxon artefacts, pavements, stonework, ancient registers dating to the 16th century, and a 3D map of Roman London. Opening times are Monday to Friday from 8 am to 5 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm, and Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm.
The Ferryman’s Seat Situated at London SE1 9DS, this historical detail is 0.6 miles (a 12-minute walk) from London Bridge. It is the last remaining boatman’s seat on the Thames Southbank, past Southwark Bridge, resting within the wall of a current restaurant. It commemorates the era when London Bridge was the only crossing point over the Thames in the city, prior to 1750.
The Queen’s Walk Starting at London SE1 9DD, this free self-guided walking tour is 0.6 miles (a 12-minute walk) from London Bridge. It runs between Lambeth Bridge and Tower Bridge, providing views of London’s landmarks along the Southbank of the Thames.
Markets and Food Halls
Borough Market Located at Borough Market, Cathedral St, London SE1 9AL, this market is 489 feet (a 2-minute walk) from London Bridge. Known as London’s most famous food market, it sells fresh produce, cultural cuisine, and seafood. While purchases are not free, the market itself can be explored without cost. Nearby filming locations include the bridge next to the market sign (featured in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban) and The Globe Tavern Pub (the exterior of Bridget Jones’s flat in Bridget Jones’s Diary).
Leadenhall Market At Gracechurch St, London EC3V 1LT, this market is 0.4 miles (an 8-minute walk) from London Bridge. Dating to 1321, it is one of London’s oldest markets and features shops, restaurants, cafes, and a pub. It was the filming location for the entrance to Diagon Alley via the Leaky Cauldron in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. The market stands on the site of Roman London (Londinium).
Museums and Architectural Sites
Bank of England Museum Located at Bartholomew Ln, London EC2R 8AH, this museum is 0.7 miles (a 17-minute walk) from London Bridge. It is a free museum inside the Bank of England, the UK’s central bank. The museum holds over 40,000 items relating to the Bank’s history and the UK economy, including the Bank’s foundation in 1694, every banknote ever made, printing plates, and examples of forgeries and counterfeits.
The Gherkin (30 St Mary Axe) Situated at London EC3A 8BF, this building is 0.7 miles (a 4-minute walk) from London Bridge. It is a private office building and not open to the general public. However, free viewing can be done from Saint Helen’s Place around the corner for a good photo opportunity. The building is 180 metres high with 41 floors and is nicknamed for its unique cone shape.
Walking Routes
Southbank Walk This walk is mentioned as a free activity, offering views of London’s landmarks along the Thames Southbank between Lambeth Bridge and Tower Bridge.
Final Thoughts
London Bridge is a focal point for numerous free activities. Visitors can explore historic churches and gardens, walk along the Thames, visit markets, and view architectural landmarks. These options provide cost-effective ways to experience London’s culture and history without spending money. For further planning, apps like TFL Go or Citymapper are useful for navigating the area.