The Best London Walking Route: South Bank Trail
- Tuesday May 12th 2026
- What to do in London
Not only is walking a great option for going at your own pace, but it’s also perfect for capturing those spontaneous photo opportunities.
Beginning your walk at the South Bank, near the base of the London Eye, is a great option, as it’s right next door to many popular attractions. To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve outlined the best walking route for amazing attractions, stunning river views, and more.
The Best London Walking Route: South Bank Trail
Looking for the best London sightseeing route to explore on foot? Not only is walking a great option for going at your own pace, but it’s also perfect for capturing those spontaneous photo opportunities.
Beginning your walk at the South Bank, near the base of the London Eye, is a great option, as it’s right next door to many popular attractions. To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve outlined the best walking route for amazing attractions, stunning river views, and more.
Sightseeing Highlights along The South Bank Trail
With landmarks like the Tate Modern, the National Theatre and the Millennium Bridge to the east, Westminster Abbey, St James Park and the National Gallery to the west, the base of the London Eye is a great vantage point for exploring the heart of the city. Plus, it offers a great backdrop of the River Thames.
For the ultimate walking tour in the heart of London, we’ve selected a route that starts at the London Eye and ends at the Tower of London. The route is just over two miles and stretches along the South Bank, offering scenic views of the river, London’s skyline,
and plenty of dining options and attractions along the way for a real taste of the city. Walking along, you’ll catch incredible views of St Paul’s Cathedral, the vibrant street art scene, and family friendly attractions including SEA LIFE London Aquarium, and Shrek’s Adventure!
Duration: Approximately 53 minutes (without breaks).
Highlights of the route include:
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Leak Street
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Southbank Centre
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National Theatre
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River Thames
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Oxo Tower
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Tate Modern
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Borough Market
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St Pauls Cathedral
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Tower Bridge
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Tower of London
Walking Tips for Exploring London
While most of central London is relatively flat, we advise wearing comfortable footwear, bringing a refillable water bottle and packing an umbrella just in case.
Toilet breaks and staying well hydrated are essential when sightseeing in London, especially during summer. Be sure to keep your water bottle topped up by using nearby public water fountains. If you need a toilet break or you’re travelling with small children, there are a number of public toilets dotted around London’s main attractions.
Make the London Eye Part of Your Walking Adventure
No walking tour in London could be complete without a stellar view of London’s skyline. For that, the London Eye is the best spot.
Whether you prefer to kick off your London sightseeing with a spin on the Eye or want to close out the evening with a glass of champagne in a pod at sunset, the choice is yours.
More Ways to Sightsee: Cruises and Bus Tours from the London Eye
If you prefer to get a view of London from the top deck, the London Eye Bus Tour is a relaxed way to tick off the big sights, a great option if you’re travelling with small children. Or, make the most of the waterfront views by hopping aboard The London Eye River Cruise, an informative yet laid-back way to experience the city.
