London Bridge is a thriving business district and tourist area on the southern bank of the Thames. The area takes its name from the bridge which has connected Southwark to the City of London for over 600 years. Before medieval times the only way to cross the Thames would be via a rickety wooden bridge (prone to fire and collapse) or a ferry boat. Henry II commissioned the first stone bridge, taking thirty-three years to complete; it lasted for over 600 years. The current London Bridge was built in 1831.
Businesses in the area
The area has long been a centre for commerce with its origins as an international trading port and today a number of large businesses have their UK headquarters in London Bridge. Finance giants Ernst and Young and PriceWaterhouseCoopers have offices in the MORE development; PR and marketing firms Blue Rubicon and Four Communications are based there while IT solutions company Serco and the teacher training charity Teach First also have offices in London Bridge.
Transport
London Bridge station was the first train terminus in central London and is a hub for those travelling in from the commuter belt around the city. Be wary though, recent works at London Bridge have caused significant disruption to those travelling from the station. The underground is served by the Jubilee and Northern lines.
Places to take clients
No London Bridge area guide would be complete without mentioning the Shard, Europe’s tallest building and home to a number of high quality restaurants that can really wow your clients. Ting at the Shard offers unparalleled views across London and its famous landmarks. The menu features modern European dishes with an Asian twist and the Chinoiserie décor to match. Meet clients here for breakfast, lunch, dinner or afternoon tea and they’ll not be disappointed.
For a more intimate, low key setting that will still impress clients, try the Rooftop Café, tucked away behind the Shard. The décor is simple and the atmosphere is relaxed and the food is whipped up by Australian chef Magnus Reid is sublime.
Le Pont de la Tour is located on the banks of the Thames, perfect for a sunny afternoon talking business over some good, traditional French cuisine. Try the 500g roasted Chateaubriand to share.
If you’re looking for a good pub in the area, there are many to choose from. Our top pick would be the Gladstone Arms which has a bar downstairs and a mellow lounge upstairs nicknamed ‘the Glad’.
Leisure
Hop over London Bridge and walk along the Thames and you’ll find yourself at one of London’s top tourist attractions, the Tower of London. You can spend a whole day here with attractions including the Crown Jewels; the ravens of the tower; the royal arsenal; the torture tower and an abundance of family activities.
If you have a little less time on your hands, but are still keen for some gruesome English history then the Old Operating Theatre Museum is located in London Bridge. One of the more unusual museums in London, but with a fascinating history of medicine and tour of the original operating theatre in the roof of an English Baroque Church, this is not one for the squeamish!
Another great tourist attraction in London Bridge is the battleship, HMS Belfast. Explore all nine of its decks and learn about the ship’s history from the Second World War to today.
Serviced apartments
We have a number of serviced apartments in London Bridge and it really is a great location for both business and leisure. Browse our London Bridge serviced apartments and enquire with us today.
