Monday to
Saturday
8AM – 8PM
Sunday
9AM – 7PM
The Sidings,
Waterloo Station,
London SE1 7BH
We love telling you about all the many popular venues around South Bank to visit but it occurred to us that there are a lot of places we know well but maybe not everyone does. That gave us an idea – what are the hidden gems on the South Bank?
Located within St. Thomas’ Hospital, the Florence Nightingale Museum offers an intimate look at the life and legacy of the founder of modern nursing. Through interactive exhibits and an extensive collection of artefacts, visitors can explore Nightingale’s pioneering work during the Crimean War and her lasting impact on healthcare. This museum provides an engaging and educational experience, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Step back in time at The Clink Prison Museum, situated on the original site of one of England’s oldest prisons. This eerie yet fascinating museum delves into the grim history of the prison system from the 12th century onwards. It combines interactive displays and authentic artefacts, giving a chilling glimpse into the harsh realities of medieval punishment and prison life. It’s a captivating stop for those intrigued by the darker side of history.
Let’s move beyond single venues to visit and wander down the cobbled lanes of Roupell Street. This picturesque slice of late Georgian/Victorian London is perfectly preserved amidst the modern cityscape. The charming, terraced houses and vintage lampposts create a timeless atmosphere, making it a favourite spot for film and TV productions. Some of the shows filmed here include Call The Midwife and Doctor Who, and the Krays biopic ‘Legend’.
This hidden street offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle, perfect for a leisurely stroll or an impromptu photo session.
Hidden in the attic of St. Thomas’ Church, The Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garret provides a unique peek into the history of surgery and medicinal herbs. As one of the oldest surviving operating theatres in Europe, it showcases 19th-century surgical procedures and a fascinating collection of medical artefacts. The herb garret, once used for drying and storing medicinal herbs, adds an intriguing botanical dimension to the museum.
Whilst most suggestions on this list might be places you’ve never visited or even heard of (it’s called hidden gems!), we thought we would share a couple that you will know but have surprises you won’t be aware of.
Firstly, we have the National Poetry Library in the Southbank Centre. Of course you know that, but did you know that they run a free poetry reading session for under-5s every Friday at 10.30 – just remember to book your free spot in advance.
The other example is the Garden Museum, which we’ve mentioned in previous articles, but one thing we’ve never highlighted are the amazing ‘Branch Out’ drop-in events. At these you can explore gardening, plant science, history, art and so much more – you might even be lucky enough to catch a free cookery masterclass.
We thought we would end with something a little different, rather than an individual hidden gem in South Bank, we are pointing you in the direction of an entire walking tour of hidden gems – and it’s free!
Led by Lambeth Tour Guides Association, you’ll traverse from Waterloo station to Blackfriars Bridge, finding hidden delights and some in plain sight that you’ve probably never noticed before. It means that even if you are a regular visitor to the area, you’ll discover something completely new to you and who doesn’t want that.
Do you know of any other hidden gems in South Bank? If you do, please let us know and we’ll be sure to add it to our bucket list.
