One of my favourite ways to spend the weekend is pottering about London taking in the sights, tastes and flavours. It’s a past-time I rarely get to indulge in now I have a young family..but over the bank holiday weekend my husband and I were given some much needed time out thanks to the grandparents recovery team. We decided to spend an afternoon ambling around London Bridge and Borough Market. It’s easy to think of this part of London as a ‘passing through’ point. A stepping stone to your final destination. But think again. There’s a lot to discover!
Brood Restaurant
Immediately at the foot of the steps leading towards Borough Market you’ll find Brood Restaurant. The restaurant offers a range of Mediterranean style dishes including paella, tapas, meze platters and burgers. Despite the long queues we found the service welcoming and efficient. We tucked into their meatball stew with paella and lamb kofta hot box which came with chorizo, halloumi, tzatziki and saffron salad. A great spot to people watch whilst indulging in some exotic tastes and a cold beer.
Southwark Cathedral
Tucked behind Borough Market is Southwark Cathedral. The site is recognised to have existed for the purpose of religious worship as far back as 1086. Since it’s most recent revamp in 2000 the Cathedral boasts a modern wing with gift-shop and cafe. It’s free to visit although a donation of £2 is requested if you wish to take photos. We found the volunteer staff and clergy particularly welcoming and happy to share their knowledge of the history of the building.
Old Thameside Inn
Sat in the shadow of the Golden Hinde and with a terrace over looking the Thames the Old Thameside Inn is our next port of call. Formerly a spice warehouse this traditional pub is the perfect pit stop for a couple of beers whilst we watch the boats chug by.
The Clink
Continuing down Clink Street we stumble across The Clink Prison Museum. A fun way to learn more about the history of London Bridge. The Clink takes you back to a time when London was a sinful place and penalties were severe! The £7.50 entry price includes a photo at the end.
Le Pain Quotidien
We finish our tour at Le Pain Quotidien. This bakery style restaurant invites a laid back, friendly atmosphere whilst serving traditional, simple dishes using local ingredients. We chose a caramel tart and merveilleux to accompany our coffees.
I loved exploring London Bridge. The amazing thing is…I now feel like I’ve only scratched the surface! There are so many more places, eateries and pit stops I’d like to discover. Question is, which London neighbourhood to visit next? Any suggestions?
Disclosure: Hotels.com gifted me spending money, but all views are my own.