Southwark

Southwark, directly south of the City across London Bridge, packs more interesting things into a small area than almost any other London neighbourhood — Borough Market, Tate Modern, Shakespeare's Globe, the Shard, Bermondsey Street and the South Bank all fall within its boundaries.

Borough Market & the Food Scene

Borough Market is the obvious draw, but the surrounding streets hold some of London's best food and drink too. Bermondsey Street, a short walk south, has evolved into a strip of independent restaurants, wine bars and galleries. Maltby Street Market (weekends) offers the same quality as Borough with far smaller crowds.

Tate Modern & Shakespeare's Globe

Both sit on Bankside, a five-minute walk from Borough Market. Tate Modern is free; Shakespeare's Globe charges for tours and performances but the exterior and riverside terrace are free to admire. The view across the river to St Paul's from the riverside path here is exceptional.

The Shard

Western Europe's tallest building, on the south side of London Bridge, has a paid public viewing gallery at the top. Tickets aren't cheap (from around £32), but the view is genuinely exceptional. Alternatively, the top-floor restaurants and bars in the Shard offer a similar view included in the food and drink minimum spend.

Getting There

London Bridge station (Jubilee and Northern lines, National Rail) is the main transport hub for Southwark. Southwark station (Jubilee line) is a shorter walk to Tate Modern.

Tips

• Combine Borough Market, Tate Modern and Shakespeare's Globe in one South Bank day.
• Bermondsey Street is less crowded than Borough Market and worth exploring alongside.
• The Shard bar is an alternative to the paid viewing gallery if you're willing to buy a drink.