South Bank bars

When you think of South Bank bars, a stretch of London’s riverside lined with casual pubs, rooftop lounges, and hidden wine spots that stay open past midnight. Also known as London’s riverside nightlife corridor, it’s where locals go after work, tourists stumble upon after the Tate Modern, and party girls end up after clubbing in the West End. These aren’t just places to grab a pint—they’re part of the city’s rhythm, shaped by the Thames, the London Eye, and the hum of foot traffic from the National Theatre to Borough Market.

What makes South Bank bars different from other London drinking spots? It’s the view. You can sip a gin and tonic while watching the sunset over the Shard, or grab a cheap lager at a canal-side pub where the only soundtrack is the clink of glasses and the occasional boat horn. Riverside bars London here don’t rely on neon signs or DJs—they use natural light, open windows, and the buzz of people walking by. And when the sun goes down, the energy shifts. You’ll find late-night bars London that don’t close until 2 a.m., serving cocktails to groups of friends who’ve just left a concert at the O2 or a movie at BFI Southbank.

There’s no one-size-fits-all vibe here. One bar might be all exposed brick and craft beer taps, another might be a glass-walled rooftop with velvet booths and a DJ spinning soul records. You can find London nightlife that’s quiet enough for a first date or loud enough for a post-club wind-down. Some spots have outdoor terraces with heaters for winter, others have vinyl playlists you won’t hear anywhere else. The best ones don’t charge cover, don’t force you to book ahead, and don’t pretend to be something they’re not.

And if you’ve ever wondered why people keep coming back to the South Bank after years of trying other neighborhoods? It’s because it never tries too hard. No gimmicks. No overpriced cocktails disguised as "signature drinks." Just good beer, decent wine, and the kind of atmosphere that makes you forget you’re in the middle of a city. Whether you’re meeting friends after work, celebrating a birthday, or just wandering after a long day, these bars feel like home—without the hassle of going home.

Below, you’ll find real picks from people who know this stretch inside out—where the staff remembers your name, where the last table stays open till dawn, and where the view is always better than the drink list. No fluff. No filler. Just the best places to drink on the South Bank in 2025.