Pop-ups with stunning views, an urban beach and endless arts and culture: it’s all here!
Of course you know South Bank – but are you aware of just how many top-notch things to do you can find at this iconic riverside location this summer? This year, it’s the perfect solution to key seasonal questions such as; where to go with the kids during those looong school holidays? What's a good thing to do with friends? Where can I chill out with a drink after work?
We’re shining a light on five reasons why South Bank should be your first port of call this summer.
While South Bank’s always good for street food, this summer it’s gone up a level: grab a seat at The National Theatre’s impressive 70 metre-long installation – KERB Presents: The Table, an informal dining option with a vast range of carefully curated independent bars and street food options, combined with unforgettable Thameside views. If summer for you = barbeque, then head to Jimmy’s BBQ Club to grill your own dinner on a Big Green Egg.
A flagship for culture since 1951’s Festival of Britain, South Bank guarantees a heady mix of things to see and do. Planet Summer at Southbank Centre showcases art, exhibitions and events responding to the climate emergency, discover original productions at The National Theatre, take in a cinematic classic at the BFI or browse the South Bank Book Market for a literary gem. Street art is core to South Bank’s heritage, so head to Leake Street to check out the graffiti and maybe even book in for a workshop with artist in residence, Max The Virus.
Children equate hot sunny days, with having fun getting wet, or at least running around dodging random jets of water. Jeppe Hein's Appearing Rooms fountain at Southbank Centre, is great for letting kids cool off. If you prefer your water firmly behind glass, then there’s the Sea Life London Aquarium, which is both fascinating and – dare we say it – educational. For a trip with panoramic views then the London Eye is one for the whole family to enjoy.
Few London locations can rival South Bank for its many open terraces, and rooftops; ideal when it’s summer. Not only is there a stunning array of al fresco dining for leisurely lunches, or a nice glass of something chilled, but along with riverside restaurants such as La Gamba or spaces such as the Queen Elizabeth Hall roof garden, there's even a sandy Caribbean urban beach terrace, courtesy of Limin. The Cloudy Bay Summer Terrace at Oxo Tower Restaurant or the Studio 54-themed 12th Knot at Sea Containers London add a stylish twist to those Instagram-worthy views of the river and London skyline.
Simply unwind taking a leisurely stroll along the riverside Queen’s Walk, but if you fancy something more competitive, challenge your gang to a game of pétanque at Jack & Boule, complete with 8 boules courts, craft beer and street food.
If you want to let your hair down, then head to Between the Bridges, a huge beer garden style venue by The London Eye, which ups the tempo with drag brunches, live entertainment, craft beer and cocktails, plus DJ’s to keep the party going until late.
Find out more about South Bank here.
