Southwark, London, for the Family

Staying in the Southwark neighborhood of London? While you’ll likely branch outside of this neighborhood to see some of the major London attractions, when you return to the area, here are the places to play and dine with families of all ages and sizes.

See and Do

You’ll notice straightaway London’s iconic Shard is located in this neighborhood. The Shard boasts London’s highest viewing platform, at almost twice the height of any other viewing platform in the city. Enjoy 360-degree views for up to 40 miles. Your general admission includes access to the viewing gallery and open air Skydeck, access to London’s highest Champagne bar and no time limit to your visit.

Likely the other most-famous London sight in the borough of Southwark is Shakespeare’s Globe. The tours are on the shorter side (an hour or less), affordable and generally entertaining to everyone in your party, regardless of their prior knowledge of either the Globe or Shakespeare.

Southwark © Holly Riddle

Potters Field Park is a small, but beautiful park directly next to Tower Bridge. In addition to the great views of said bridge both night and day, there are lots of shops and eateries in the nearby vicinity and you’ll find events and festivals occurring in the green space on a regular basis.

If bad weather keeps you from seeing the views or the green space, make a trip to the Fashion and Textile Museum. Founded by designer Zandra Rhodes, it features exhibits on clothing, jewelry and fabric. Current exhibits focus on fashion from the 1930s.

On the very edge of the neighborhood you’ll find the Imperial War Museum. History buffs and military enthusiasts will love the displays filled with artifacts ranging from weapons to uniforms, rockets to tanks.

Eat and Drink

The Bridge Lounge and Dining Room offers pub-style dining with occasional live music in a cozy space. The neighborhood feel adds to a laid-back atmosphere.

The Pommelers Rest serves an expansive, affordable menu. The only caveat? Orders are taken via a downloadable app, so you’ll want to steer clear if you have spotty cell service while abroad.

The Draft House, meanwhile, serves a more inventive array of items in a fun and unique atmosphere. Adults can enjoy a mixture of new takes on pub food with vegetarian and vegan options, while the kids menu consists of your normal expectations (chicken nuggets and macaroni and cheese, anyone?). However, the non-picky eaters might want to try the sausages and mash, which does come in a kids’ portion.

Southwark Park © Holly Riddle