London is a huge city with so many interesting neighborhoods. Throughout the last 8 months that I’ve lived here, I’ve explored the city a bit, and last week, I spent a day visiting a new neighborhood. The area surrounding London Bridge Station has a lot to offer, with some of London’s most iconic sites just a short walk away. Here are my recommendations for things to do near London Bridge Station and the best restaurants near London Bridge Station. If you’re thinking about staying in this area, check out these hotels in London Bridge.
The spending money was gifted by Hotels.com, but all views are my own.
HMS Belfast 
King’s College near London Bridge
Things to Do Near London Bridge Station
Visit the Shard– If you want to see London from above, you can visit the View from the Shard, a viewing platform at the top of the pointy building. If you want to visit the Shard, you could also grab dinner at one of its lovely restaurants (more information below).
Walk Along the River– From London Bridge Station, you’re just a short walk from the Rivier Thames. If it’s a nice day, I love walking along the river! Sites like Tower Bridge and Shakespeare’s Globe are located just a short walk from London Bridge Station along the waterfront.
HMS Belfast– History lovers will love visiting the HMS Belfast, an English Navy ship used in World War II and the Korean War. You can learn all about its history while exploring on board the ship!
Tower Bridge 
Tower of London
Tower Bridge– Walk along the river for an amazing view of Tower Bridge! This is one of my favorite sites in London.
The London Bridge Experience and Tombs– If you love scary movies and aren’t afraid of haunted houses, check out the London Bridge Experience and Tombs. I was way too scared to go inside, but I think people who enjoy scary things will like this attraction.
Brunch at The Grind 
Donut from Bread Ahead at Borough Market
Best Restaurants Near London Bridge Station
Borough Market– If you’re looking for the best restaurants near London Bridge Station, you need to go to Borough Market. Throughout the market, you can find vendors selling street food, fresh produce, coffee, and more. There are also a number of sit-down restaurants located within the market and around the edge of the market. Borough Market is a must-visit in London, so I recommend visiting for lunch one day and wandering around until you see something you like! I had an incredible donut from Bread Ahead Bakery and fresh oysters from one of the seafood
Borough Market is great if you’re traveling to London on a budget – check out this guide for more budget-friendly tips for visiting London!
Fresh Oysters at Borough Market 
Inside Borough Market 
Borough Market
Ting at The Shangri-La Hotel in The Shard– When I was exploring London Bridge, I wanted to have a unique afternoon tea, and I found that at Ting. Located on the 35th floor of The Shard, Ting offers meals throughout the day with stunning views of the city below. The afternoon tea I had was so luxurious and lovely, and I think it’s well worth the splurge. This month (April 2019), the afternoon tea is themed to the Royal Family and the birth of the newest royal baby!
Afternoon Tea at Ting 
View from Ting
AquaShard– If you’re looking for dinner or a drink with a view, head to one of The Shard restaurants, like Aqua Shard. I went a few weeks ago, and I was really impressed!
The Grind– For the best brunch near London Bridge Station, you have to go to the grind. The Grind serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in their stylish restaurant. At night, the cafe turns into a bar with amazing drinks. I had the avocado toast and a fresh juice, and both were amazing.
Art in The Grind
Pirates of the Hidden Spirit – For an unforgettable night out, head to the Pirates of the Hidden Spirit, and immersive cocktail bar located aboard the Golden Hinde, a replica of a 16th-century ship! Throughout the experience, you’ll interact with the pirates aboard and have a few drinks as you watch the drama between the sailors and the ship’s captain unfold. You can also visit the Golden Hinde during the day (without the cocktails), which is a great activity for kids!
Check out my full review of Pirates of the Hidden Spirit (and other themed
Exploring the London Bridge Neighborhood
Since moving to London about 8 months ago, I hadn’t explored the area around London Bridge and Southwark as much as I wanted to. Borough market alone is enough reason to visit this area when you’re in London, but as you can see, this area has so much more to offer. I hope to explore more of London over the next few months so I can share more of the city with you!
When I first moved to London in early 1980s, there were hardly any restaurants in the London Bridge area where I worked, just the odd pub and Borough Market, though without the restaurants and stalls within.