Things to Do Near Waterloo: Your Complete London Guide
If you are looking for things to do near Waterloo, you are in one of the best locations in central London. Waterloo is much more than a major railway and Underground station. Within a short walk, you can reach the River Thames, the London Eye, world-class theatres, museums, food markets, street art, cinemas, gardens and some of London’s most recognisable landmarks.
Why Waterloo is a great place to explore London
Central Location
Easy access to South Bank and central London.
River Thames
Enjoy riverside walks and landmark views.
Entertainment
Theatres, music, attractions and nightlife nearby.
Food & Drink
Plenty of restaurants, cafés and casual dining.
The area is particularly convenient for visitors because you can combine several attractions without spending much time travelling between them. A morning around Waterloo Station can easily become an afternoon beside the Thames, followed by dinner, theatre or an evening activity.
Something for Every Type of Visitor
Waterloo also works well for different types of London trips. Families can visit attractions such as SEA LIFE London Aquarium and Shrek’s Adventure, couples can enjoy a Thames-side walk and dinner, culture lovers can explore the Southbank Centre and National Theatre, while budget-conscious visitors can enjoy riverside views, street art, public spaces and parts of the cultural scene without paying an admission fee.
A Walkable Pocket of Central London
The wider South Bank and Waterloo area is recognised for its mixture of attractions, arts, food, entertainment and riverside activities. Many popular places can be reached on foot, making Waterloo an excellent starting point for visitors who want to experience several London highlights in a single day.
Walk & Explore
Discover attractions at your own pace.
Whether you have two hours near Waterloo Station, a full day in South Bank or an entire weekend in central London, this guide will help you decide what to see and do.
Best Things to Do Near Waterloo
Use this quick guide to compare popular attractions and activities near Waterloo by who they are best for, how long to allow and the likely budget.
| Attraction or Activity | Best For | Approx. Time | Budget |
|---|---|---|---|
| London Eye | First-time visitors | 1–2 hours | Paid |
| South Bank riverside walk | Couples & sightseeing | 1–3 hours | Free |
| Southbank Centre | Culture lovers | 1–3 hours | Free / Paid |
| Leake Street Arches | Street art fans | 30–60 mins | Free |
| SEA LIFE London | Families | 1.5–2.5 hours | Paid |
| London Dungeon | Older children & adults | 1.5–2 hours | Paid |
| National Theatre | Theatre lovers | 1–3 hours | Free / Paid |
| BFI IMAX | Film fans | 2–3 hours | Paid |
| Jubilee Gardens | Families & relaxing | 30–90 mins | Free |
| Queen’s Walk | Walking & photography | 1–2 hours | Free |
| Lower Marsh | Food & local atmosphere | 1–2 hours | Varies |
| Waterloo Millennium Green | Quiet outdoor break | 30–60 mins | Free |
| Observation Point | London views | 20–45 mins | Free |
| Gabriel’s Wharf | Shopping & food | 1–2 hours | Varies |
| South Bank Book Market | Book lovers | 30–60 mins | Varies |
Mobile tip: Swipe horizontally across the table to see all columns on smaller screens.
Things to Do Near Waterloo
Discover some of the best attractions, cultural experiences and free activities within easy reach of Waterloo Station and South Bank.
Walk Along the South Bank and Queen’s Walk
One of the easiest things to do near Waterloo is simply to walk towards the River Thames and follow the riverside.
The Queen’s Walk provides a pedestrian-friendly route through South Bank, with landmarks, restaurants, cultural venues, street performers and river views along the way. It is particularly enjoyable because you can turn the walk into your own sightseeing tour rather than having to follow a strict itinerary.
Depending on how far you walk, you can see the London Eye, Jubilee Gardens, Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, National Theatre, Waterloo Bridge, Oxo Tower Wharf and other riverside sights.
The route also provides plenty of opportunities to stop for coffee, photographs or lunch.
Best for
Walking, couples, families and first-time visitors.
Local tip
Visit around sunset if you want atmospheric photographs over the Thames.
Ride the London Eye
The London Eye is one of the most famous attractions close to Waterloo and South Bank. Its large observation capsules provide elevated views across central London and the River Thames.
For visitors who have never experienced London before, it is an excellent way to understand the city’s geography from above. You can spot major landmarks in several directions, making the experience particularly useful at the beginning of a London trip.
The ride itself is relatively straightforward to combine with other attractions because the London Eye sits beside several other major South Bank experiences.
Explore Jubilee Gardens
For a free outdoor activity near Waterloo, head to Jubilee Gardens.
The landscaped public space sits beside the Thames and provides a useful break from the busy tourist attractions around County Hall and the London Eye.
It is a good place to sit down, enjoy the views and watch London life around the river. Families may also appreciate having an open area where children can take a break between attractions.
Because Jubilee Gardens is so close to the London Eye, it works particularly well as part of a short sightseeing route.
Best for
Families, photographers and anyone looking for a free activity.
Visit the Southbank Centre
The Southbank Centre is one of London’s major cultural destinations and a natural choice for anyone searching for things to do near Waterloo.
Its programme covers music, theatre, literature, dance, visual arts and family activities. Some experiences require tickets, while other areas and events may be free.
Even if you do not have a performance booked, the complex is worth exploring as part of a South Bank walk.
The surrounding area also makes it easy to combine culture with food, riverside sightseeing and other attractions.
Best for
Art lovers, music fans, theatre audiences and families.
See a Show at the National Theatre
The National Theatre is another major cultural landmark within easy reach of Waterloo.
The building itself is notable for its distinctive architecture, while its programme covers a wide variety of theatrical productions.
A theatre visit can be an excellent evening activity after spending the afternoon exploring South Bank.
If you are not attending a performance, the wider area around the theatre is still worth visiting. The riverside location makes it a natural stopping point during a Thames walk.
Planning Your Waterloo Visit?
These five attractions are easy to combine into a South Bank itinerary. Start with a riverside walk, add Jubilee Gardens or the London Eye, explore the Southbank Centre and finish with an evening performance at the National Theatre.
Discover Street Art at Leake Street Arches
One of the more unusual attractions near Waterloo is Leake Street, commonly associated with the graffiti tunnel underneath the railway tracks.
Unlike London’s polished landmark attractions, this area feels raw, colourful and constantly changing. The artwork can look different from one visit to the next because new pieces appear over existing designs.
It is an excellent location for photography and a particularly interesting stop for visitors who want to experience a less traditional side of London.
The arches around the tunnel also contain places to eat, drink and enjoy entertainment.
Visit SEA LIFE London Aquarium
Families searching for things to do near Waterloo with kids have several options, and SEA LIFE London Aquarium is one of the most obvious.
Located in County Hall near the London Eye, the aquarium provides an indoor activity that works particularly well when London’s weather is wet or unpredictable.
You can combine the aquarium with the London Eye, Jubilee Gardens and other nearby attractions, creating a convenient family day out without extensive travel.
Experience The London Dungeon
For something darker and more theatrical, consider The London Dungeon.
The attraction focuses on dramatic stories inspired by London’s darker historical past and uses actors, sets and immersive effects.
It is particularly suitable for visitors who prefer interactive entertainment rather than traditional museums.
Because it is located close to the London Eye and SEA LIFE, it is easy to include in a full day around Waterloo and South Bank.
Take the Kids to Shrek’s Adventure! London
Another family-oriented attraction near Waterloo is Shrek’s Adventure! London.
It offers an interactive experience based around Shrek and other familiar characters. It can be particularly appealing to families looking for an activity that feels more like an experience than a conventional museum visit.
The attraction’s location near County Hall means you can combine it with several other South Bank attractions.
Watch a Film at BFI IMAX
Film lovers should put BFI IMAX on their Waterloo itinerary.
The giant-screen cinema provides a very different experience from watching a standard film at home or in a conventional cinema.
It is particularly useful as an evening activity when the weather is poor or when you want a relaxed break after several hours of sightseeing.
You can combine a film with dinner around South Bank or Waterloo.
More Waterloo Experiences to Explore
These five attractions add more variety to a Waterloo and South Bank itinerary. From colourful street art and family attractions to immersive entertainment and cinema, you can easily mix indoor and outdoor activities depending on your interests and the weather.
Explore the Southbank Centre’s Cultural Spaces
Beyond major performances, the Southbank Centre area can be interesting for visitors who simply want to experience London’s creative atmosphere.
You may encounter exhibitions, public art, live activities, talks, music and seasonal programming.
This is one of the reasons Waterloo is useful for visitors who do not want every activity to be a traditional tourist attraction.
Check the programme for your visit because events change throughout the year.
Browse the South Bank Book Market
Under Waterloo Bridge, book lovers can look for second-hand and pre-loved books at the South Bank Book Market.
It is a small but distinctive addition to a riverside walk and provides a slower-paced experience compared with the larger attractions nearby.
You can browse for novels, art books, history titles and other reading material while enjoying the atmosphere beneath the bridge.
The market’s operation can depend on conditions and schedules, so checking before travelling is sensible.
Visit Gabriel’s Wharf
Gabriel’s Wharf offers a different side of South Bank, with independent-style shops, studios, food and riverside surroundings.
It is a good place to explore when you want to move away from the biggest attractions and discover smaller businesses.
The location also works well as a stop on a longer walk towards Tate Modern and Bankside.
Stop at Observation Point
If you are searching for free things to do near Waterloo, add Observation Point to your list.
This riverside viewpoint offers an attractive perspective towards St Paul’s Cathedral and the Thames.
It is particularly good for photography because the river curves through the city and creates a strong foreground for skyline pictures.
You do not need to spend much time here, so it is easy to include during a longer South Bank walk.
Walk Across Waterloo Bridge
Waterloo Bridge provides one of the most interesting pedestrian viewpoints in central London.
As you cross the Thames, look in both directions for views towards London’s skyline. Depending on the direction, you can see landmarks around Westminster, the City and South Bank.
It is especially enjoyable around sunrise or sunset, although the bridge can become busy.
Rather than treating the bridge as simply a way to get from one side of London to another, make it part of your sightseeing route.
Make These Activities Part of Your Waterloo Walk
These five experiences are easy to combine with the wider South Bank area. You can browse books, explore independent shops, enjoy riverside viewpoints and finish with a walk across Waterloo Bridge while discovering a quieter side of central London.
Explore Lower Marsh
Lower Marsh is one of the best places near Waterloo for visitors who want to experience a more local street atmosphere.
The street has independent businesses, cafés, restaurants and food options and provides a useful contrast with the heavily visited riverside attractions.
It is particularly convenient because it is close to Waterloo Station.
For visitors arriving by train, Lower Marsh can be an easy first stop before heading towards the Thames.
Relax at Waterloo Millennium Green
Not every London sightseeing experience needs to involve a major attraction.
Waterloo Millennium Green offers a quieter outdoor option near the station.
It can be useful if you need a short break from busy streets or want to spend a little time outdoors without travelling to one of London’s larger parks.
It is especially useful for visitors who have a gap between train connections or activities.
Explore the Riverside at Different Times of Day
The Thames looks completely different depending on when you visit.
For this reason, a riverside walk can be repeated during the same trip without feeling exactly the same.
Try Food Around South Bank and Waterloo
Food is a major part of the Waterloo experience.
Around South Bank and the streets behind the river, you can find restaurants, cafés, casual dining, takeaway options and food-market stalls.
The area is particularly convenient for visitors because you do not have to leave the sightseeing zone to find somewhere to eat.
For a more casual experience, look around Lower Marsh and the market-style food options. For a riverside meal, explore the restaurants around South Bank.
The wider area is known for its combination of riverside dining, food markets and independent options.
Explore the Southbank Centre Food Market
Food lovers can also look for the Southbank Centre Food Market, where different vendors offer a changing selection of dishes.
It is useful for groups because everyone can choose something different rather than agreeing on one restaurant.
The market is particularly suited to casual lunches and snacks during a day of sightseeing.
Schedules and participating vendors can change, so check the current arrangements before making it the centrepiece of your itinerary.
Food, Green Spaces and Local Waterloo Experiences
These five ideas add a more relaxed side to a Waterloo visit. Explore Lower Marsh for local atmosphere, take a quiet break at Waterloo Millennium Green, experience the Thames at different times of day and enjoy the wide choice of food available around Waterloo and South Bank.
Enjoy a Thames River Experience
Another option is to see London from the water.
River services and cruises can provide a different perspective of landmarks such as Westminster, the London Eye and other central London sights.
The South Bank area has river connections and piers, making it convenient to combine a boat experience with a walking itinerary.
If you have already explored the riverside on foot, travelling along the Thames can make the second half of the experience feel completely different.
Discover More Theatre Around Waterloo
Waterloo is an excellent base for theatre lovers.
In addition to the National Theatre and Southbank Centre, the wider area connects easily with venues such as the Old Vic and Young Vic.
Theatre is one of the biggest advantages of visiting Waterloo in the evening because you can spend the afternoon sightseeing and finish the day with a performance.
For the best choice of shows, check schedules well ahead of your visit.
Take Photos Around South Bank
You do not need to pay for an attraction to enjoy Waterloo.
Some of the best photographs can be created simply by walking along the Thames.
Visit Tate Modern and Continue to Bankside
If you have several hours available, extend your walk east along the Thames towards Tate Modern and Bankside.
This turns a Waterloo visit into a broader South Bank sightseeing route.
The walk is especially enjoyable because you can stop at different attractions rather than committing to one destination.
You can also continue towards Shakespeare’s Globe and eventually London Bridge if you want a longer day out.
Combine Waterloo With Westminster
Waterloo is also extremely convenient for exploring Westminster.
Cross Westminster Bridge and you can reach some of London’s most famous political and historic landmarks.
This makes Waterloo an excellent starting point for a walking day that includes:
The exact route can be shortened or extended depending on your energy and available time.
From the Thames to Westminster
These five ideas make it easy to build a flexible Waterloo itinerary. Enjoy the river from a boat, discover London’s theatre scene, photograph South Bank landmarks, walk towards Bankside and Tate Modern, or cross Westminster Bridge for a wider central London sightseeing route.
Best Free Things to Do Near Waterloo
You can enjoy Waterloo without spending much money. The area is particularly good for budget travellers because many of its most enjoyable experiences involve the Thames, public spaces, architecture, street art and walking routes rather than admission tickets.
Things to Do Near Waterloo With Kids
If you are visiting London with children, Waterloo is one of the more convenient central areas for a family day. You can combine major attractions with free outdoor spaces, riverside walks and family-friendly entertainment without spending the whole day travelling between different parts of London.
Example Family Day Near Waterloo
Things to Do Near Waterloo at Night
Waterloo becomes a different destination after dark.
Theatre, cinema, restaurants, bars and riverside walks give visitors plenty of options after the major daytime attractions close.
Best Things to Do Near Waterloo for Couples
Waterloo works surprisingly well for a London date.
A simple romantic itinerary could combine coffee, riverside views, one major attraction, dinner and evening entertainment without requiring complicated travel.
Best Things to Do Near Waterloo for First-Time Visitors
If this is your first London trip, prioritise the major landmarks. Waterloo is a useful starting point because several iconic sights can be reached on foot.
This route gives you a strong introduction to London’s riverfront, architecture and cultural attractions without requiring complicated transport connections.
If you have extra time, continue east towards Tate Modern and Bankside.
One-Day Waterloo Itinerary
If you have one full day, this itinerary covers a mixture of famous attractions and local experiences. It can easily be adjusted for families, couples or budget travellers.
AM
Start at Waterloo Station
Begin with breakfast or coffee around Waterloo and explore Lower Marsh.
AM
Head Towards South Bank
Walk towards the Thames and start exploring the riverside.
AM
London Eye
Allow enough time for the attraction and surrounding photographs.
PM
Lunch
Choose from restaurants or food stalls around South Bank.
PM
Southbank Centre
Explore the cultural complex and check what events or exhibitions are available.
PM
National Theatre & Waterloo Bridge
Continue along the river and enjoy the architecture and views.
PM
Leake Street
Walk back towards Waterloo and explore the graffiti tunnel.
PM
Lower Marsh
Stop for coffee, dessert or an early meal.
PM
Evening Entertainment
Finish with theatre, cinema, a restaurant or another evening activity.
Two-Hour Waterloo Itinerary
Only have a short time? You can still experience several of the most recognisable sights around Waterloo with a simple walking route.
↓
Lower Marsh
↓
South Bank
↓
London Eye
↓
Jubilee Gardens
↓
Westminster Bridge
Best Time to Visit Waterloo
There is no single perfect time to visit because Waterloo changes throughout the day. The best time depends on whether you want quieter photography, family activities, attractions or evening entertainment.
Quieter & Better for Photography
Morning is a good choice for quieter riverside walks, photography and a calmer start before the busiest sightseeing hours.
Attractions & Family Activities
Afternoon is useful for major attractions, family activities, markets, food stops and cultural experiences around South Bank.
Theatre, Food & River Views
Evening is ideal for theatre, restaurants, cinema and illuminated views across the Thames.
Livelier South Bank
Weekends are usually livelier, particularly around South Bank, the riverside and major attractions.
Cold but Atmospheric
The riverside can be cold, but seasonal events, winter lighting and evening city views can create a special atmosphere.
Longer Outdoor Days
Longer daylight hours make it easier to combine several outdoor activities and enjoy the Thames after dinner.
How to Get to Waterloo
Waterloo is one of London’s best-connected central transport hubs, making it an easy starting point for exploring South Bank and nearby parts of central London.
Waterloo Underground Station
Waterloo Underground Station is served by the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern and Waterloo & City lines.
Waterloo Railway Connections
Nearby railway connections provide services towards destinations in southern and south-western England.
Explore Central London on Foot
From Waterloo you can walk towards Westminster, Covent Garden, Bankside and London Bridge depending on your chosen route.
Is Waterloo a Good Area to Visit in London?
Yes. Waterloo is particularly good for visitors who want to combine major attractions with cultural experiences and riverside walks.
The area also offers alternatives to the standard tourist itinerary. Leake Street, Lower Marsh, independent businesses, book stalls and cultural venues give Waterloo more character than its reputation as simply a transport hub might suggest.
How Much Time Do You Need Around Waterloo?
Waterloo Attractions: Quick Comparison
Not sure which Waterloo attraction to choose? This quick comparison makes it easier to decide based on what you want to see, whether you are travelling with children and whether you are looking for free or paid activities.
| Place | Best Reason to Visit | Free? | Good for Families? |
|---|---|---|---|
| London Eye | Panoramic London views | No | Yes |
| Southbank Centre | Culture and events | Some areas/events | Yes |
| Jubilee Gardens | Relaxing outdoors | Yes | Yes |
| Leake Street | Street art | Yes | Older children |
| SEA LIFE London | Marine life | No | Yes |
| London Dungeon | Immersive history | No | Older children |
| National Theatre | Theatre and architecture | Some areas | Yes |
| BFI IMAX | Giant-screen cinema | No | Depends on film |
| Lower Marsh | Food and local atmosphere | Yes to explore | Yes |
| Queen’s Walk | Thames views | Yes | Yes |
| Observation Point | Photography | Yes | Yes |
| Waterloo Millennium Green | Quiet outdoor space | Yes | Yes |
Tips for Visiting Waterloo, London
A little planning can make your Waterloo visit much easier. The area is compact enough for walking, but there are also plenty of attractions, food stops and cultural venues to combine into one flexible itinerary.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many of the best experiences around Waterloo and South Bank are walking-based. Comfortable footwear will make it easier to explore the riverside, bridges, streets and attractions without getting tired too quickly.
Combine Attractions
The London Eye, SEA LIFE London and London Dungeon are close to one another, making it possible to create a convenient attraction-focused day without spending much time travelling between venues.
Check Event Times
Southbank Centre events, theatre performances and other cultural programmes change regularly. Check the schedule before travelling if a particular event is an important part of your itinerary.
Keep an Eye on the Weather
The riverside can feel much colder and windier than sheltered streets. Check the forecast and bring an extra layer or rain protection when you plan to spend several hours outdoors.
Explore Beyond the London Eye
The London Eye is one of the area’s biggest attractions, but Waterloo has much more to offer. Explore Leake Street, Lower Marsh, the riverside, cultural venues and quieter local spots for a broader experience.
Use Free Activities to Balance Your Budget
The Thames walk, Leake Street, Jubilee Gardens and public spaces can fill several hours without admission costs. Mixing free experiences with one or two paid attractions can help keep your London day affordable.
Consider Visiting Twice
Waterloo can feel completely different during daylight and after sunset. A daytime visit is ideal for sightseeing and photography, while evening brings illuminated landmarks, theatre and riverside dining.
Book Major Attractions Ahead
Popular attractions can become busy, especially during weekends and school holidays. Booking ahead when possible can make your itinerary easier to manage and reduce the risk of missing a preferred time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do Near Waterloo
Planning a visit to Waterloo, London? These frequently asked questions cover attractions, free activities, family ideas, evening entertainment and practical sightseeing tips.
What are the best things to do near Waterloo?
Some of the best options include the London Eye, South Bank riverside walk, Southbank Centre, Leake Street, SEA LIFE London Aquarium, London Dungeon, National Theatre, Jubilee Gardens and Lower Marsh.
What is there to do near Waterloo Station for free?
You can walk along the Thames, explore Leake Street’s graffiti, visit Jubilee Gardens, cross Waterloo Bridge, explore Lower Marsh and enjoy parts of the Southbank Centre without paying an admission fee.
Is Waterloo close to the London Eye?
Yes. The London Eye is located in the South Bank area and is easily accessible from Waterloo on foot. It can also be combined with Jubilee Gardens, the riverside and other nearby attractions.
What can families do near Waterloo?
Families can visit SEA LIFE London Aquarium, Shrek’s Adventure! London and the London Eye, or choose free activities such as Jubilee Gardens, riverside walks and street-art exploration.
What are the best things to do near Waterloo at night?
Theatre performances, BFI IMAX, restaurants, riverside walks and evening events around Southbank Centre are popular options. The illuminated Thames and London skyline can also be excellent for evening photography.
Is Waterloo good for tourists?
Yes. Waterloo is an excellent base for sightseeing because it is close to South Bank, the River Thames, Westminster and numerous major attractions. Its transport connections also make it convenient for exploring other parts of central London.
What is the best free attraction near Waterloo?
There is no single best free attraction for everyone, but the Thames riverside walk is one of the easiest choices because it combines scenery, landmarks and people-watching without an admission charge.
How far is South Bank from Waterloo Station?
South Bank is very close to Waterloo Station and can be reached on foot. Depending on which part of South Bank you want to visit, the walking time varies. The riverside attractions around the London Eye and County Hall are particularly convenient to reach.
What can couples do near Waterloo?
Couples can ride the London Eye, walk along the Thames, enjoy sunset views, have dinner beside the river or see a theatre performance. A free alternative is a riverside walk followed by sunset views from Waterloo Bridge.
Is Waterloo good for a one-day London trip?
Yes. Waterloo is an excellent starting point for a one-day itinerary because you can combine South Bank, the London Eye, Westminster, cultural attractions, food and evening entertainment without making complicated journeys between every stop.
