- 4-min walk (300m)
- London’s oldest food market, packed with global flavors
- Cost: Free to browse, meals from £5
Rising above London Bridge in the heart of Southwark, The Shard is surrounded by some of the city’s most dynamic neighborhoods. Within a 20-minute walk, you’ll find historic markets, world-class museums, and the Thames riverfront. Whether you’re exploring around The Shard, strolling close to Borough Market, or discovering hidden corners near London Bridge, this area is perfect for easy sightseeing and spontaneous adventures
Explore all attractions near the The Shard
Unlock the London City Pass to access top attractions like The Shard, Tower Bridge, and HMS Belfast—all within walking distance. Perfect for first-time visitors, save up to 40% and skip the ticket lines.
Book ahead for a seamless experience
Take in breathtaking 360° views of London from The Shard’s open-air Skydeck — the city’s highest viewing platform. Spot iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral, and the London Eye from above. It’s the most spectacular way to see London day or night.
💡 Tip: For a memorable lunch, grab fresh bread and cheese from Borough Market and enjoy a picnic at Potters Fields Park, with Tower Bridge as your backdrop.
💡 Tip: For a memorable night, catch a play at Shakespeare’s Globe, just a 15-minute riverside walk from The Shard. Standing tickets are affordable and offer a unique, immersive experience.
💡 Tip: Book a table at one of The Shard’s restaurants for New Year’s Eve and enjoy panoramic fireworks over the Thames—one of London’s most spectacular celebrations.
Yes, the area is well-lit and busy into the evening, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and riverside walks. Stick to main streets and the Thames Path for added safety.
Absolutely. Most attractions, markets, and parks are within a 15-minute walk. The area is flat, with step-free routes and plenty of signposts.
Borough Market is a must for food lovers, while Flat Iron Square offers street food and live music. The George Inn is a classic pub with centuries of history.
Potters Fields Park is ideal for a riverside picnic with Tower Bridge views. Southwark Cathedral gardens are also peaceful and close by.
The Thames Path, Potters Fields Park, and the Sky Garden all offer excellent views of The Shard and the city skyline.
Walk the Thames Path, explore Borough Market, visit Southwark Cathedral, and enjoy public art at Hay’s Galleria—all free and within a short walk.
Try Padella for pasta, Flat Iron Square for variety, and The Ivy Tower Bridge for riverside dining. Borough Market also has excellent street food.
HMS Belfast, the Golden Hinde, and Potters Fields Park are all family-friendly. The Clink Prison Museum offers interactive exhibits for curious kids.
Visit The View from The Shard, explore HMS Belfast, or browse the Fashion and Textile Museum. Borough Market is mostly covered, making it a good wet-weather stop.
London Bridge station offers left luggage services and lockers. Some nearby hotels may also store bags for a fee.
London Bridge station is directly next to The Shard, served by the Jubilee and Northern lines.
Dogs are welcome in Potters Fields Park and along the Thames Path but not inside most indoor attractions or restaurants.
Yes, the London City Pass includes entry to The Shard, Tower Bridge, HMS Belfast, and more. Check the pass details for full coverage.
Borough Market is the top choice, with Vinegar Yard and Hay’s Galleria also nearby for shopping and browsing.
The Sky Garden, Thames Path, and Tower Bridge all offer striking night views of The Shard illuminated against the skyline.
Winchester Palace ruins, Red Cross Garden, and The George Inn are lesser-known spots worth discovering.
Early mornings and late afternoons on weekdays are quietest. Avoid lunchtime and weekends for the shortest lines.
Christmas at Borough Market, The Scoop’s summer film festival, and the Thames Festival are highlights throughout the year.
