Southwark Area Guide

Southwark: Where History Meets Innovation

Southwark is a vibrant and dynamic borough with many iconic landmarks. A highly desirable place to call home, its prime location, south of the River Thames, offers easy access to excellent schools, transport options, and many green spaces.

Shopping in Southwark

Southwark provides a diverse shopping experience, from the renowned Borough Market with its delectable food stalls to the unique boutiques on Bermondsey Street. You can also explore the Bermondsey Antique Market or savour culinary delights at Maltby Street Market.

Things to Do in Southwark according to Circa London

This vibrant and dynamic historical area is filled with many attractions and activities. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this remarkable neighbourhood. Southwark is a treasure trove of iconic attractions, including:

• Tate Modern: A visit to Tate Modern tops our list of things to do in Southwark. Housed in a former power station since 2000, this museum boasts one of the world's most significant collections of modern and contemporary art. Explore masterpieces by renowned artists like Kandinsky, Yves Klein, Damien Hirst, and Matisse in themed galleries that provide unique insights into art's social and political context.  
• Shakespeare's Globe: For a taste of Shakespearean theatre as it was performed in the 1600s, the Globe Theatre is a must-visit. A faithful replica of the original open-air theatre built by Shakespeare in 1599, it offers year-round performances. Experience the magic of Shakespeare's works in a setting that recreates the atmosphere of a Jacobean indoor theatre at the nearby Sam Wanamaker Playhouse.
• Borough Market: If you're a food enthusiast, Borough Market is a culinary paradise and one of the best things to do in Southwark. This historic food market has been trading on the same site since the 13th century. Under a beautiful Victorian-era glass canopy, you can indulge in specialty and artisanal products, street food, and visit pubs and taverns.
• Tower Bridge: A symbol of London, Tower Bridge is a stunning Gothic-style bridge connecting the Tower of London to Southwark. Open to foot and road traffic year-round, it also offers high-level walkways that provide incredible views and form a part of the bridge's museum.
• The Shard: The Shard, London's tallest structure, opened in 2012 and offers breath-taking panoramic views. Architect Renzo Piano designed the iconic building, which resembles a church spire. "The View from The Shard" provides a unique opportunity to witness over 40 miles of the city's skyline.
• Southwark Cathedral: Southwark Cathedral, often overlooked but rich in history, was founded in the 12th century and later declared a cathedral in 1905. It remains essentially unchanged from the 15th century, featuring numerous ancient historical monuments, including a rare wooden effigy dating back to 1280.
• Imperial War Museum: The Imperial War Museum is a captivating destination housed in a beautiful building with landscaped grounds. It features three permanent displays focusing on the Victoria Cross Award, the Second World War, and the First World War.
• The Old Operating Theatre Museum: Nestled in the attic of St Thomas' Church, this museum is home to the oldest surviving operating theatre in Europe. It delves into the techniques and practices of a bygone era, offering insights into surgical procedures before anaesthesia and antiseptics.
• HMS Belfast: HMS Belfast, a significant Royal Navy warship from World War II, is moored between London Bridge and Tower Bridge. Visitors can explore all nine decks of the ship and gain a vivid understanding of life on a warship, thanks to personal accounts and interactive exhibits.
• Menier Chocolate Factory: Once a chocolate factory, the Menier Chocolate Factory is now a dynamic arts centre and theatre. It showcases plays, musicals, stand-up comedy, and live music in a building dating back to 1870, complete with a charming restaurant featuring timber beams and exposed brickwork.
• Hay's Galleria
• National Theatre
• Bridge Theatre
• British Film Institute

Southwark Schools

Quality schools are a key factor in making an area family-friendly. Southwark is home to some of London's finest schools, with many primary schools boasting an 'outstanding' Ofsted rating, such as Charles Dickens Primary School and St Joseph's Roman Catholic Primary School. The area also provides access to well-performing secondary schools and is close to prestigious institutions like the City of London School and Westminster School.

Transport in Southwark

Southwark is well-connected to many parts of London through its four main rail stations: London Bridge, Southwark, Borough, and Elephant and Castle. These stations offer access to the Jubilee and Northern lines, facilitating convenient travel around the city. Additionally, a network of bus routes, bike paths, and riverboat transport along the Thames ensures that navigating Southwark is a breeze.

Investing in Southwark Property

Southwark Property

Southwark boasts a rich and varied property portfolio, encompassing a broad range of housing options; period houses, modern skyline developments and charming warehouse conversions.

With its prime location and a wealth of attractions, Southwark is an excellent place to consider for property investment. If you're interested in purchasing property in Southwark, don't hesitate to contact Circa London. Our team can assist you in finding the right property. Explore our popular pages below to learn more.