Blackfriars Area Guide

Blackfriars: A Historic, Vibrant Neighbourhood with a Modern Twist

Located on the southern banks of the River Thames, Blackfriars is one of London’s most historic districts, steeped in rich heritage and culture. Named after the 12th-century monastery whose monks wore black robes, the area has witnessed significant moments in history, such as the divorce hearing of Catherine of Aragon and Henry VIII. Yet, it’s not just history that defines Blackfriars today—its striking blend of historic charm and 21st-century development makes it one of the most desirable locations in central London.

Green Spaces in Blackfriars

Blackfriars offers several beautifully-maintained green spaces where residents can unwind amidst the hustle and bustle of city life. Nearby, Tate Modern’s Terrace provides stunning views over the river, while St. Paul’s Cathedral Gardens, just a short walk away, offer a peaceful escape with perfectly manicured lawns. A short stroll along the South Bank takes you to the Bankside Gardens, where you can enjoy riverside walks surrounded by flourishing greenery. These spaces are perfect for families, professionals, and nature lovers alike, offering a tranquil respite from the urban environment.

Pubs, Bars, and Restaurants in Blackfriars

Blackfriars’ thriving food and drink scene reflects the area's unique blend of old and new. Whether you’re looking for a casual pub or a trendy restaurant, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your tastes.

• Pubs: For a traditional pub experience, head to the Blackfriar Pub, a historic building with intricate Art Nouveau designs and a selection of craft ales. Nearby, The Rising Sun offers an inviting atmosphere for a night out with friends, serving up hearty British fare and classic cocktails.
• Bars: For a nightcap, you can visit one of the riverside bars in Gabriel’s Wharf, where you can sip cocktails while enjoying panoramic views of the Thames. The BrewDog Blackfriars offers craft beer enthusiasts a laid-back spot to enjoy the best local brews.
• Restaurants: Blackfriars is a foodie haven, with an impressive selection of eateries to explore. From Pizarro, a top-rated Spanish restaurant, to Kellogg’s Café offering delicious contemporary dishes, there’s something for every palate. Oxo Tower Restaurant, just a stone's throw from Blackfriars, is renowned for its exceptional modern British menu and stunning views of the river.

Culture in Blackfriars

Blackfriars’ central location makes it a prime spot for culture lovers. The Globe Theatre, one of the world’s most famous playhouses, is just a short walk away, where you can catch Shakespearean performances. The Tate Modern, also nearby, is home to ground breaking contemporary art exhibitions that attract visitors from around the world. For music enthusiasts, the Southbank Centre, situated on the opposite side of the river, hosts world-class performances across genres—from classical to contemporary music, dance, and theatre.

Shopping in Blackfriars

When it comes to shopping, Blackfriars has it all, from independent boutiques to high-street stores. Just across the Thames, Gabriel’s Wharf offers a unique collection of independent craft shops, design studios, and cafés. For more mainstream shopping, head to St. Martin’s Le Grand, a bustling shopping area with a wide variety of high street retailers.

Schools in Blackfriars

Blackfriars is an ideal location for families, with numerous high-quality schools in the area.

Local primary and secondary schools include:

• Friars Primary Foundation School (3 – 11)
• London Nautical School (11 – 18) 
• Haberdashers' Borough Academy (11 – 18)
• Oasis Academy Johanna (3 – 11))
• Charles Dickens Primary School (2 - 11)
• St George's Cathedral Catholic Primary School (3 - 11)

Transport

With the new Blackfriars Station that spans the River Thames, improving commuter access between the south and north banks, Blackfriars is evolving at a rapid pace. As this iconic district transitions from the old to the new, it remains an important link between the City of London, the West End, and the South Bank.

Property in Blackfriars

New developments are springing up on both sides of the River Thames around Blackfriars Bridge which can claim to be an architectural marvel in its own right. Most prominent among them is undoubtedly One Blackfriars, a grandiose crystal shaped building known as “The Vase”. Positioned on the bridge’s southern approaches, it is complemented by the nearby imposing shape of Tate Modern Museum and the eco-friendly designs of the Neo Bankside apartments.

Some notable luxury developments in the area include:

One Blackfriars is a residential development that offers a range of luxury apartments and penthouses with stunning views of the River Thames and the city skyline. The development features amenities such as a 24-hour concierge, a private cinema, a swimming pool, and a fitness centre.

Blackfriars Circus is a mixed-use development that offers a range of residential properties, including apartments and townhouses. The development features a range of amenities, such as a communal courtyard, a residents' lounge, and a rooftop terrace.

Blackfriars Tower is a residential development that offers a range of apartments with stunning views of the River Thames and the city skyline. The development features amenities such as a 24-hour concierge, a private cinema, a swimming pool, and a fitness centre.

Bankside Yards is an exciting new development offering a blend of modern office spaces, luxury residences, and vibrant public areas. Bankside Yards is set to become a dynamic cultural and business hub in Bankside featuring contemporary architecture and a variety of amenities, including green spaces, cafés, and shops, making it an attractive destination for both work and leisure.

Transport Links

One of Blackfriars’ most attractive features is its excellent transport connectivity. Blackfriars Station, spanning both sides of the River Thames, provides easy access to National Rail services and the Circle and District lines of the London Underground. In addition, the nearby St. Paul’s Tube Station offers quick access to the Central Line, making travel to the West End and Bank a breeze.

Residents also benefit from nearby bus routes along Ludgate Hill and Fleet Street, and the Thames Clipper service, offering a quick and scenic route to Canary Wharf and Waterloo.