South Bank Area Guide

Southbank: An area steeped in history, architecture and culture

Circa London is an independent estate agent focused on Southbank and its neighbouring areas in central London. Whether you're selling, letting, or simply exploring the market, we offer a free property appraisal. Our team provides professional guidance to help you make the best decisions for your property in Southbank.

Location

Southbank (SE1) is a vibrant neighbourhood in Central London, situated south of the River Thames in Zone 1. Stretching from the Design Museum in the east to the London Eye in the west, the area is home to major landmarks such as Big Ben, the National Theatre, and the Southbank Centre. Its pedestrian-friendly riverside, cultural institutions, and proximity to top attractions make it a highly sought-after location for residents and visitors.

History

Once a rural region, Southbank transformed during the Industrial Revolution and was later significantly impacted by WWII bombings, leading to major regeneration. The 1951 Festival of Britain played a key role in this revitalisation, with iconic buildings like the Royal Festival Hall and the National Theatre emerging as a result. Today, Southbank is celebrated as a cultural and creative hub, attracting both artists and businesses.

Life in SE1

Southbank offers a dynamic blend of cultural experiences and leisure activities. With its world-class museums, theatres, and historic landmarks such as Shakespeare's Globe and the London Eye, the area is perfect for both relaxation and entertainment. The riverside promenade, lush parks, and bustling markets make it an ideal place to explore.

Places to Eat and Drink

• Skylon—Located on the top floor of the Royal Festival Hall, Skylon offers modern British cuisine with breathtaking views of the Thames and London's skyline. It is ideal for a sophisticated dining experience.
• Gillray's Steakhouse & Bar – Just a short walk from the London Eye, Gillray's serves top-quality steaks and British classics, using locally sourced ingredients for a truly memorable meal.
• Southbank Centre Food Market – Open on weekends, this vibrant market features a variety of street food vendors serving global flavors. It's a great spot for a casual bite with riverside views.
• Seabird—Enjoy oysters and cocktails while watching the sunset from Seabird's rooftop terrace, which offers a stylish and relaxing atmosphere.
• Oxo Tower Wharf – Located near Bernie Spain Gardens, this riverside location features a range of restaurants and bars, perfect for dining with scenic views.
• Lyaness – Experience cocktails at the glamorous riverside Lyaness bar, known for its creative drinks and chic ambiance.
• Queen Elizabeth Hall Roof Garden – Relax with a cold beer while taking panoramic views of the Thames at Queen Elizabeth Hall's rooftop garden.

Things to do

• Southbank Centre – A major cultural hub in London, offering a diverse range of musical performances, talks, exhibitions, and events, all within a network of 1950s buildings.
• London Eye – Situated at the end of the South Bank, the London Eye provides stunning panoramic views of the city, including landmarks like Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and St. Paul's Cathedral.
• Lower Marsh Market – A lively market in Waterloo offering street food and handmade crafts, ideal for grabbing a quick bite while exploring nearby landmarks.
• London Dungeon – A thrilling, immersive experience through London's dark history, featuring live actors and special effects. Great for families and thrill-seekers.
• National Theatre – A famous example of Brutalist architecture, designed by Denys Lasdun, and home to some of London's best theatrical productions.
• BFI Southbank – A must-visit for film lovers, hosting screenings of classic and contemporary films and film festivals and events.
• Waterloo Bridge and the Embankment – A scenic spot for a leisurely stroll with spectacular views of London. The Embankment often features street performers, especially on sunny days.
• Jubilee Gardens – A peaceful park near the London Eye featuring open lawns, benches, and beautiful views of the Thames, perfect for a relaxing break.
• Gabriel's Wharf – A charming pedestrian square with shops, restaurants, and art studios, ideal for exploring and unwinding.
• County Hall – Built in the Edwardian Baroque style, County Hall was originally designed for the London government and is now an entertainment hub with attractions like an aquarium, hotels, cafes, and luxury apartments.
• Old Vic – A historic theatre at the forefront of London's cultural scene, offering a variety of performances.
• Young Vic – A renowned theatre dedicated to innovative and contemporary productions, providing a platform for both emerging and established talent.
• Tate Modern – One of the world's leading modern art galleries, featuring contemporary works by renowned global artists.
• Shakespeare's Globe – A faithful recreation of the theatre where Shakespeare's plays were first performed, offering regular productions and educational programs.
• Graffiti Tunnel (Leake Street) – A hidden gem for street art lovers, this ever-changing graffiti tunnel is a cool, off-the-beaten-path spot many tourists miss.
• Golden Hinde – A full-size replica of Sir Francis Drake's famous ship, allowing visitors to explore maritime history.
• The Crypt at Lambeth Palace—This is one of the oldest buildings in the area, dating back to the 1200s. It is located beneath Lambeth Palace, the official residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury.
• Queen Elizabeth Hall, Purcell Room, and Hayward Gallery are iconic cultural venues on the Southbank, known for their world-class performances, art exhibitions, and events.
• South Riverside Walk – A scenic path along the Thames with beautiful views of the river and London landmarks, featuring benches and peaceful spots to relax.

Transport

Southbank is easily accessible via various transport options, including Waterloo Station (serving the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City lines) and nearby stations like Southwark, Lambeth North, and Embankment. The area is also well-connected by riverboat services and multiple bus routes.

Property in Southbank

The properties in the South Bank are as diverse as its culture. The area has a mix of traditional and modern properties, including everything from historic warehouses to luxury apartments. Many properties offer stunning views of the River Thames, making them highly sought-after by buyers looking for waterfront property.

In the heart of London's South Bank, Roupell Street Conservation Area is a hidden gem that transports visitors back in time. The area is a well-preserved example of London's 19th-century architectural heritage and provides a glimpse into the city's rich history.

Roupell Street is named after John Roupell, a local businessman who owned much of the land in the area during the 19th century. The street was originally built between 1823 and 1826 as part of the development of the area around Waterloo, which was then a rural area on the outskirts of London. The street was originally named Union Street, but it was later changed to Roupell Street in honour of John Roupell.

During the 19th century, Roupell Street was a thriving residential area for the working class. The houses in the area were built in the Georgian and early Victorian style and were originally intended for artisan workers such as blacksmiths, carpenters, and other tradespeople. The street became a conservation area in 1977 due to its historic and architectural significance.

The houses on Roupell Street are known for their distinctive and charming appearance. They are built in the Georgian and early Victorian style, with many of them dating back to the 1820s. The houses are made of yellow stock brick and have slate roofs. They are typically two or three storeys high, with many featuring decorative ironwork on their balconies and front doors.

Today, the houses on Roupell Street are highly sought after and are some of the most expensive properties in the area. Circa London successfully sells and lets houses in this historic neighbourhood, check out this stunning house in Roupell Street.  

Southbank's modern apartments and repurposed historic warehouses offer a unique mix of luxury living and character-filled spaces. Riverside properties are particularly sought after and can command premium prices. The area's ongoing regeneration ensures Southbank remains a hotspot for both homeowners and investors.

Investment Opportunities:

Southbank's renowned cultural scene, prime riverside location, and growing demand for housing make it an attractive place for property investment. With new developments continuing to reshape the area, Southbank presents significant capital growth potential.

Upcoming Projects:

• Bankside Yards: A 50-storey residential tower set to become London's tallest residential building
• Printworks Redevelopment: A mixed-use development, including 3,000 new homes
• Waterloo & Southbank Masterplan: A long-term project to improve the area's infrastructure and connectivity

Notable Developments:

NEO Bankside
Bankside Lofts,
Southbank Tower
One Blackfriars 
County Hall
Triptych Bankside
Southbank Place