Wander the streets surrounding Borough Market, and it’s hard to miss the contrast between London’s ancient treasures, cultural institutions, and latest dash of urban energy. Enjoy a 5 minute stroll, find world-famous attractions just steps away.
Tower Bridge beckons you to cross it and enjoy a beautiful walk along the Thames, and the Tate Modern welcomes art enthusiasts to experience world-famous contemporary art. History aficionados have a chance to visit the breathtaking Southwark Cathedral, a beautiful structure with church roots reaching back to the 12th century.
At the same time, food lovers will enjoy world-class local restaurants that offer traditional British fare to international offerings. Step back in time, take in beautiful riverside views, or enjoy the energetic scene at day’s end!
Seriously, the area surrounding Borough Market has fun for all tastes. Read on to find out about other can’t-miss highlights in the vicinity.
1. Explore Southwark Cathedral
Southwark Cathedral is a marvelous sight, one of the finest Gothic cathedrals in the world, with a history dating back to 606 AD. Its carvings, soaring stone arches, and detailed stained glass bud windows make it a spectacular place to enjoy up close. Walk inside the cathedral and let the vaulted ceilings marvel you. You’ll find important tombs as well that serve as a great introduction to centuries of history, making it a key stop on your London travel tips.
Located on St. Mary Overie Dock along Cathedral Street, Southwark Cathedral continues to welcome visitors every day of the week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. In November through March, and increases those hours to 6 p.m. from April through October. For just $6.30, adults can take in everything this place has to offer, making it a great place to explore.
Participating in a service or concert here only deepens that experience, making it a privilege to attend one. During these events, the cathedral’s diverse and rich musical tradition truly comes alive. From the rear, the choir and organ spill an array of colorful, powerful tones across sweeping arches, creating a memorable atmosphere that complements your London itinerary.
Their seasonal concerts, usually focused on classical and choral music, are in demand and make for an enchanting experience for visitors. Outdoors, the gardens that surround the cathedral provide a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Walk among the manicured pathways and discover quiet, weathered benches that create a perfect space for contemplation.
Soak in the tranquil foliage, an ideal summer backdrop for quiet contemplation. It’s a lovely place to relax with the cathedral rising above you. Even beyond its literary connections, Southwark Cathedral is truly fascinating from a historical perspective, making it a highlight of Secret London.
As a place of worship and community for more than 1,400 years, it has heard the thousands of comings and goings, supplications and mirth, histories and stories. Most famously, some of our greatest playwrights, including William Shakespeare, made their homes here. The pragmatic medieval cathedral has withstood the fires, bombs, and upheaval of London’s proud and furious history.
Walking its halls and grounds offers you the unique pleasure of feeling yourself drawn deep into its dynamic legacy.
2. Visit the Borough Market Kitchen
After that, the Borough Market Kitchen provides an amazing sit-down meal featuring dishes prepared by top local chefs. The variety is extraordinary too, from soothing British classics to zippy international punch. Turnips has a steaming bowl of mushroom risotto, prepared to order in massive pans.
Over at Hash, try the much-loved creamy mac and cheese to get your fill of comfort food. Sweet lovers should stop by Bread Ahead’s famous doughnuts—honeycomb and chocolate flavors are especially popular.
The ambience here crackles with creativity and cosmopolitan energy. Here, you can dig into a more casual meal while immersing yourself in the energy of food lovers all around you. The kitchen has the added bonus of being set against Borough Market’s iconic Victorian railway viaducts.
TVC Trains rumbled above ground, lending to the energetic bustle. Wide open passageways 5 to 13 feet wide give the space a cozy, but spacious feel that puts you immediately at ease as you wander. If you go on a Saturday afternoon, prepare to face a full-on horde.
Soak up the prep bustle, though, that’s the best part! For anyone interested in a more hands-on approach to exploring the culinary world, the kitchen runs a variety of cooking classes and workshops, too. These sessions are not only informative, but a great morale booster to develop and hone new skills.
You’ll meet fellow food lovers, too. Take the craft of perfecting a puff pastry, for instance—or discover cinnamon’s complex subtleties. This is your opportunity to get a bit of the market experience straight into your own kitchen!
Getting here is a breeze on public transportation! You can take the Tube, National Rail at London Bridge Station, buses, or take a picturesque riverside walk along the Thames. The market is open Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. 5 p.m.
On Saturdays, you can shop from 8 a.m. To 5 p.m., and on Sundays you can peruse from 10 a.m. To 2 p.m.
3. Stroll along the Thames Path
Then, head to the Thames Path for a stroll along the scenic river banks. You’ll start with incredible views of the River Thames and pass some of London’s other iconic landmarks, such as the famous London Bridge area. This stretch is only 3 miles, making it perfect for a more leisurely walk. You can walk it in just under an hour if you don’t stop. Given all there is to see and do along the route, you can easily fill an entire day—or more—exploring along the way.
With every step, the ever-changing London skyline serves as your backdrop. The Shard, London’s newest landmark with its glorious glass tapering form, and the iconic Tower Bridge are but a few highlights worthy of your lens. Whether you’re looking to take home some beautiful nature shots or simply want to enjoy the scenery, the Path presents countless picturesque backdrops, including amazing views of the London Eye.
From the old to the new, historical to contemporary, each step brings discoveries that never fail to amaze. There’s no lack of lovely spots to play and relax. Riverside pubs and cafes line the route, making for the perfect pit stops. Raise a riverside pint or a cup of coffee as you take in the vista, perhaps at a proper London pub along Southwark Street.
These locations tempt you to enjoy the beauty around you on your lunch hour. One of the best examples of this is The Anchor, a historic pub with outdoor seating that flows over the Thames Path. The Path provides an incredible view of London’s history as well, giving you a taste of secret London.
The River Thames has been at the heart of London’s history and development for centuries. Along the walk, you’ll find plaques, signs, and even guided tours that share stories of trade, exploration, and the city’s evolution. It’s an opportunity to appreciate the city’s rich legacy while experiencing its current energy, making it one of the best London travel tips for any visitor.
4. Discover the Clink Prison Museum
Afterward, the Clink Prison Museum provides a fully immersive experience into more than 600 years of intriguing history. Originally built in 1144, this East London prison is England’s oldest and most notorious. There’s no better place to experience Old Bankside’s scandalous past than here!
On the original prison premises in Bankside, it’s more than a museum – it’s an immersive, educational experience. From the dark stories of past medieval justice to the personal accounts of its most famous inmates, there’s so much to learn.
Interactive exhibits allow you to connect with the past in an immersive, educational, and ultimately, bone-chilling way. You can touch and handle replicas of torture devices once used in the prison. The museum doesn’t stop there; it re-creates the sights, sounds, and smells of the prison, immersing visitors in a realistic portrait of this notorious institution.
The model of Sir Francis Drake’s Elizabethan galleon adds yet another historical layer. Most uniquely, it ties maritime history directly to the prison’s story. Expert guides provide fascinating insight into the prison’s infamous history.
They bring to life the tales of its most notorious prisoners and the dreadful conditions they endured. The haunting environment below Winchester Palace will submerge you in the past. Every step through the museum is like taking a step back in time.
The museum is open every day of the year (though closed on December 25) with adult tickets at $10. Kids, seniors, and students under 26 pay only $7. Allow at least 1 hour 15 mins to appreciate all the exhibits.
It’s easy enough to pair your visit with a walk through Borough Market. It’s literally next door, home to a fabulous collection of food markets, hawker stalls, and multicultural eats.
5. Enjoy a tasting tour at Borough Market
A tasting tour at Borough Market offers a perfect blend of flavors, history, and culture. With a local guide leading the way, you can sample an array of gourmet foods from various vendors. From savory British cheeses paired with fresh fruit, crackers, and chutney to artisanal bread from Bread Ahead, there’s a lot to savor. Stops might include Neal’s Yard Dairy for creamy cheese tastings or even Evans Cycle Shop for a unique twist on the market experience. For an extra treat, enjoy a pint of London ale or cider at a nearby historic pub, making the flavors even more memorable.
As you wander through the market, your guide will recount all the juicy facts about this market’s melting pot of flavors and centuries-old heritage. Borough Market isn’t only the incredible multi-ethnic food capital of London; it’s a living marketplace of oral history and cultural folkways. As you walk through its colorful stalls, you’ll learn how the market has changed over the centuries and how it’s become integral to the local community, showcasing the vibrant food scene of Southwark.
The atmosphere is lively, with a mix of local office workers grabbing lunchtime bites and a few tourists soaking up the charm. A big additional reason for Borough Market’s success is the people. These passionate traders simply can’t stop sharing their stories. They’ll be bubbling over with enthusiasm, eager to share the story of where a rare spice comes from to how they make the perfect loaf of sourdough, contributing to the famous food market reputation.
The market’s in-house personal shopping assistant, Wizard, can lead you around the market, providing tailored recommendations and fascinating insights along the way. As fun as the main attractions can be, there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Seasonal specialties, surprising food combinations, and hidden gems from lesser-known stalls lure you to return time and again.
You’ll have 10-20 minutes to explore on your own, which makes it feel a little less tour and a little more local. Private tours are available to book on weekdays and can be customized according to your group’s interests, ensuring a unique experience that fits perfectly into your London itinerary.
Conclusion
Taste and experience Borough Market. The surrounding area is full of history. You’ll go behind the scenes in history, enjoy breathtaking riverside sights, and taste the very best of local flavor. Every location provides that special ingredient. Visit the stunning medieval Southwark Cathedral or taste globally inspired, chef-led plates at beautiful Borough Market Kitchen! Get some fresh air on the Thames Path. After that, take a leap back in time at the Clink Prison Museum for a captivating look into the sordid history of the area’s most famous prison.
No one could ever say that there’s not enough good stuff to eat and drink at home. Foodie, history lover, or just out for a fun time, this region has something for everyone. Get the most out of every moment by planning your visit with our online experience. We guarantee you will walk away with unforgettable culinary memories and a satisfied palate!