Destination South Bank
19 September 2017
Sometimes a period of adjustment can be a tricky thing. After summer weekends dedicated to barbecues, picnics and lounging in parks, it can be a struggle to make the most of weekends in the autumn. But don’t worry – cities come into their own at this time of year, offering all kinds of pleasant distractions.
Billed as London’s Cultural playground with national centres for arts, film and performance, South Bank London is where it’s at! A mere 10 minutes’ walk from Big Ben, Covent Garden & Trafalgar Square, it really is at the heart of the capital. Instead of rushing around (normally Londoners clock a fast walking speed of 1.68 meters per second according to Environment and Behavior), this is the place to indulge in a leisurely potter. Whilst you saunter, take in the sights and landmarks of our historic city, indulge in a bit of people spotting, and enjoy the buzz. Punctuate your meander with refreshment breaks at one of the many restaurants, cafes, or food markets, or watch a bit of street theatre – isn’t that what weekends are about?
Regularly top on visitor’s ‘To do list’ is the Lastminute.com London Eye where you can see the whole city laid out for you as you slowly rotate 135 metres above the capital. If you’re good with heights you can also get great panoramic views from the top of Tate Modern and the OXO Tower offers stunning views of St Paul’s and the London skyline – the perfect accompaniment to a gin and tonic!
If you like your films big then the award-wining BFI IMAX is a great treat for the whole family. It boasts the UK’s largest cinema screen (nearly the height of five double deckers) – perfect for an autumnal wet weekend. Culture vultures will be queuing up for the BFI London Film Festival and the London LiteratureFestival in October. If you’re of a theatrical persuasion, don’t forget to check out the internationally renowned National Theatre, and whilst you’re at it, take a peek at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.
Silent Disco at SEA LIFE
Feeling adventurous? Book yourself an amphibious experience with the London Duck Tours. The specialist D-Day vehicles go from road to river and offer a variety of tours; Classic Sightseeing, Pirate Treasure Hunt, or James Bond tours. SEA LIFE London Aquarium is a great place to take the whole family for a day out (or enjoy a Silent Disco), Rug Rhymes at the Royal Festival Hall will entertain your under 5’s, or check out House of Vans, who offer free street culture events involving BMX, skateboarding, music and art. If you’re a night owl you might like a silent disco at SEA LIFE. Promising a brand new jellyfish experience you can dance the night away in the world-famous waterhole until just before midnight.
As the Dalai Lama said “Once a year go someplace you’ve never been before” – maybe you should try destination South Bank?