How to Walk the South Bank Art Trail

The South Bank Art Trail is one of London’s most immersive and accessible public art experiences, stretching along the southern edge of the River Thames from Westminster Bridge to London Bridge. More than just a scenic riverside walk, it is a dynamic open-air gallery featuring over 100 works of art—from monumental sculptures and interactive installations to murals, mosaics, and ephemeral performances. Whether you're a local resident, a first-time visitor, or an art enthusiast seeking deeper cultural context, walking the South Bank Art Trail offers a unique opportunity to engage with contemporary and historic British art in its most public form.

This trail is not merely a path—it’s a narrative woven through urban space, reflecting London’s evolving identity, its creative resilience, and its commitment to democratizing art. Unlike traditional galleries that require admission fees or strict opening hours, the South Bank Art Trail is free, open 24/7, and designed for spontaneous discovery. Its significance lies in its accessibility: no prior knowledge of art history is needed, yet the depth of meaning invites both casual observers and serious scholars alike.

In an era where digital experiences dominate, the South Bank Art Trail stands as a powerful reminder of the enduring value of physical, embodied engagement with culture. Walking this trail allows you to slow down, observe details, and connect with art in real time—under changing light, weather, and seasonal rhythms. It’s also a social experience: you’ll encounter fellow walkers, street performers, and local artists, creating an organic community around creativity.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to experience the South Bank Art Trail meaningfully. From planning your route to understanding the stories behind each piece, this tutorial transforms a simple stroll into a rich, informed, and memorable journey.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Plan Your Route and Timing

The South Bank Art Trail spans approximately 4.5 kilometers (2.8 miles), running from Westminster Bridge in the west to London Bridge in the east. While you can walk the entire trail in under two hours at a brisk pace, we recommend allocating at least four to six hours to fully appreciate the art, take breaks, and soak in the atmosphere.

Begin at Westminster Bridge, near the London Eye. This is the most iconic starting point and offers immediate visual impact: the towering steel structure of the London Eye frames the skyline, while the adjacent “The Third Man” sculpture by Michael Sandle pays homage to the 1949 film set in post-war Vienna—a subtle nod to Cold War themes embedded in the city’s cultural memory.

Alternatively, if you prefer a less crowded start, begin at County Hall, just east of Westminster Bridge. Here, you’ll find the “Sculpture in the City” installation area, which rotates annually with new commissions. Check the official South Bank Centre website for current exhibits before you go.

For optimal lighting and fewer crowds, aim to start your walk between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM on weekdays. Late afternoons (3:00 PM–6:00 PM) offer golden-hour photography conditions, especially near the Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe. Avoid weekends if you prefer solitude, as the trail becomes extremely busy with tourists and families.

2. Download or Print a Trail Map

While the trail is well-signed, not all artworks are labeled with detailed descriptions. Download the official South Bank Art Trail Map from the Greater London Authority’s website or use the “London Art Walks” mobile app (available for iOS and Android). The app includes GPS tracking, audio commentary for key pieces, and real-time updates on temporary installations.

If you prefer a physical map, pick up a free printed version at the South Bank Centre Information Desk, the Tate Modern shop, or any London Tourist Information Centre. The map highlights 24 major artworks and 12 secondary pieces, grouped into thematic zones: “Memory and Identity,” “Nature and Industry,” and “The River as Muse.”

3. Begin at Westminster Bridge: The Gateway

As you step onto the South Bank from Westminster Bridge, pause at the bronze “The Three Graces” by Jacob Epstein (1950). This lesser-known work is often overlooked amid the more prominent landmarks. Epstein’s figures—nude, intertwined, and abstracted—represent the unity of art, science, and industry. Notice the weathered patina; the sculpture has been kissed by rain and touched by countless hands over seven decades.

Just 50 meters east, the “Pier Head” sculpture by Anish Kapoor (2001) rises from the water’s edge. Its mirrored surface reflects the sky and passing boats, creating a constantly shifting image. Stand directly in front of it and observe how your reflection distorts—this is Kapoor’s commentary on perception and identity in urban environments.

4. Follow the Path to the Tate Modern

Continue east along the riverbank, passing the “Floating Sculpture” by Sarah Lucas (2019), a towering stack of repurposed furniture wrapped in fabric and paint. It’s a satirical nod to consumerism and domestic life. The sculpture is especially striking at dusk when floodlights illuminate its textures.

As you approach the Tate Modern, pause at the “Unilever Series” platform, where large-scale installations rotate every six months. Recent works include a 10-meter-tall inflatable whale by Olafur Eliasson and a kinetic sound sculpture by Yayoi Kusama. Check the Tate’s website for current installations before your visit.

Enter the Tate Modern’s free public galleries. While technically not part of the outdoor trail, the museum’s exterior walls feature permanent murals by British artists, including the 2017 mosaic “The River” by Rachel Whiteread, which traces the Thames’ flow in ceramic tiles. Spend 30 minutes here to contextualize the outdoor pieces you’ve seen.

5. Explore the Shakespeare’s Globe and Beyond

Walk past the Millennium Bridge, which offers panoramic views of St. Paul’s Cathedral. On the south side, the “Shakespeare’s Globe” complex includes the “Poet’s Seat” by Antony Gormley—a cast-iron figure seated on a stone bench, gazing toward the river. It’s a quiet meditation on solitude and creativity.

Just south of the Globe, look for the “Watermark” installation (2021), a series of 12 stainless steel plaques embedded in the pavement, each engraved with a line from a different British poet—Wordsworth, Hughes, Larkin, and contemporary voices like Warsan Shire. Kneel to read them; the text is designed to be discovered at ground level, encouraging mindfulness.

6. Discover the Southbank Centre’s Hidden Gems

At the Queen Elizabeth Hall, find the “Echoes of the Thames” sound sculpture by Max Eastley. It’s not visible—it’s audible. As wind passes through its metallic rods, it produces low, resonant tones that change with the tide. Bring headphones or simply stand still for five minutes to experience it.

Behind the Hayward Gallery, the “Concrete Jungle” mural by C215 (2020) covers an entire brick wall. The stencil portrait of a young girl with flowers growing from her hair is a tribute to urban resilience. Look closely—hidden within the petals are tiny symbols: a bird, a key, a clock. Each represents a different local community initiative.

7. End at London Bridge: Reflection and Closure

As you approach London Bridge, the trail culminates with the “The Bridge of Voices” by Antony Gormley (2015). This installation consists of 12 life-sized iron figures standing on the parapet, each facing a different direction. Some are looking at the river, others at the city, and one is turned inward. It’s a powerful metaphor for the diversity of human experience.

At the eastern end, near the City Hall, you’ll find the “River Archive”—a digital kiosk displaying historical photographs, oral histories, and climate data about the Thames over the past 200 years. Touch the screen to hear a fisherman from 1938 describe the river’s smell, or a child from 2010 recount seeing a seal swim past.

End your walk with a quiet moment on the bench beside the “Stone of Reflection”, a circular slab of Portland stone engraved with the words: “The river remembers what the city forgets.”

Best Practices

Respect the Art and the Environment

Many of the artworks on the South Bank are made from fragile or weather-sensitive materials. Do not climb on sculptures, lean against them, or spray graffiti—even if it seems harmless. Some pieces, like the mosaic “The River,” are protected by anti-graffiti coatings, but repeated touching can wear away the surface over time.

Dispose of trash properly. The trail is maintained by volunteers and local councils; litter not only harms wildlife but also distracts from the aesthetic experience. Bring a reusable water bottle—there are several refill stations along the route.

Engage Mindfully, Not Just Visually

Art on the South Bank is designed to be experienced, not just seen. Many installations incorporate sound, texture, and movement. Take time to close your eyes and listen. Feel the breeze off the river. Notice how shadows shift across a sculpture at different times of day.

Use your senses. The “Scent of the Thames” project (2022) released subtle aromatic diffusers near key artworks—cedar, wet stone, and brine—to evoke the river’s historical and ecological layers. While the diffusers are seasonal, you can still imagine them: close your eyes and breathe deeply as you stand by the water.

Photograph Thoughtfully

Photography is encouraged, but be considerate. Avoid blocking pathways or using tripods during peak hours. Many artworks are copyrighted; commercial use requires permission from the artist or the South Bank Centre.

Instead of taking a quick selfie in front of a sculpture, try to capture the relationship between the artwork and its surroundings: the reflection in the river, the contrast between steel and brick, the way pedestrians interact with it. These images tell richer stories.

Walk at a Human Pace

The South Bank Art Trail is not a race. Resist the urge to check off every piece like a checklist. Choose three to five works that resonate with you and spend time with them. Sit on a bench. Read the plaque twice. Ask yourself: What emotion does this evoke? What does it say about the time it was made? How does it relate to the river?

Some of the most profound moments occur when you’re not looking for art—you’re simply present. A child laughing as they chase pigeons near a sculpture. An elderly man sketching in a notebook. A musician playing a violin near the Tate Modern. These are part of the trail too.

Seasonal Awareness

The trail transforms with the seasons. In spring, cherry blossoms frame the “Poet’s Seat.” In summer, the river is alive with kayakers and paddleboarders, whose movements become part of the living art. Autumn brings golden leaves that cling to metal sculptures, creating natural collages. Winter, though colder, offers stark, dramatic lighting and fewer crowds.

Check the weather forecast. Rain transforms the trail: puddles become mirrors, and wet stone surfaces glow. Bring a light raincoat or umbrella. Don’t let a drizzle stop you—some of the most beautiful photographs are taken in misty conditions.

Learn the Stories Behind the Artists

Many artists on the trail are British or have deep ties to London. Antony Gormley’s work often explores the human body’s relationship to space. Rachel Whiteread casts negative spaces—what’s missing—to reveal memory. Sarah Lucas uses everyday objects to challenge gender norms.

Before your walk, spend 15 minutes reading short bios of five artists featured on the trail. Understanding their intent transforms passive viewing into active dialogue. For example, knowing that the “Floating Sculpture” was created after the 2016 Brexit vote adds layers of meaning to its fragmented, unstable form.

Tools and Resources

Mobile Applications

Several apps enhance your experience:

• London Art Walks – GPS-enabled, includes audio guides, artist interviews, and real-time updates on temporary installations.
• Google Arts & Culture – Offers high-resolution images and virtual tours of key pieces, useful for pre-trip research.
• Art Detective – A crowdsourced app where users upload photos and annotations of artworks; great for discovering lesser-known pieces.

Printed Guides and Books

For deeper context, consider these publications:

• “The South Bank: A Public Art Guide” by Fiona Macdonald (2021) – 120 pages with maps, artist profiles, and historical background.
• “River Thames: Art and Identity” by Dr. Helen B. Thompson – Academic but accessible, explores how the river has shaped British art since the 18th century.
• “London’s Open Air Museums” – A regional guide published by the Royal Society of Arts, includes the South Bank alongside other city trails.

Online Archives

Access primary sources through:

• South Bank Centre Digital Archive – Contains photos, videos, and artist statements from every installation since 1990.
• British Library Sound Archive – Search for oral histories of artists who worked on the trail.
• London Metropolitan Archives – Historical maps showing how the riverbank changed before and after the 1951 Festival of Britain, which launched the trail’s origins.

Guided Tours and Workshops

While self-guided walks are ideal for flexibility, consider joining a free guided tour offered by the South Bank Centre on Saturday mornings. These 90-minute walks are led by art historians and include access to restricted areas and unpublished stories.

For a more hands-on experience, sign up for a “Create Your Own Art Trail” workshop. Participants design a mini-trail using found objects, photographs, and poetry, then install it temporarily along the route. It’s a powerful way to understand the creative process behind public art.

Accessibility Resources

The trail is largely wheelchair accessible, with smooth pathways and elevators at key points. Audio descriptions are available for visually impaired visitors via the London Art Walks app. Tactile maps can be requested in advance from the South Bank Centre. Service animals are welcome.

Rest areas with seating are spaced every 400 meters. Most public toilets are equipped with baby-changing stations and accessible facilities. If you need assistance, ask at the Tate Modern information desk—they can connect you with volunteer guides.

Real Examples

Example 1: The “Echoes of the Thames” Sound Sculpture

In 2021, a visitor from Tokyo named Emi Tanaka posted a video on social media of herself sitting silently beside Max Eastley’s “Echoes of the Thames” for 17 minutes. She wrote: “I came for the art, but I stayed for the silence. The wind made a sound like a distant choir. I didn’t know I needed this until I heard it.”

The video went viral, prompting the South Bank Centre to install quiet zones with signage encouraging visitors to pause and listen. Today, “Listening Stations” are marked on the trail map, and guided sound walks are offered monthly.

Example 2: The “Watermark” Poetry Plaques

After the 2020 lockdowns, a group of schoolchildren from Southwark wrote their own poems and submitted them to the “Watermark” project. Four were selected and engraved onto new plaques. One reads: “I used to think the river was just water. Now I know it’s stories.”

Teachers now use the trail as an outdoor classroom. Students write poems on the spot, then compare them to the published lines. The project has inspired similar initiatives in Manchester and Bristol.

Example 3: The “Concrete Jungle” Mural and Community Action

When the C215 mural was defaced in 2022, local residents organized a “Rebirth Day,” painting over the graffiti with murals of their own. Within a week, the wall became a collaborative canvas of over 50 artists—youth, elders, refugees, and veterans.

The South Bank Centre recognized the movement and turned it into a permanent community art space. Now, the wall hosts monthly open-painting sessions. This example shows how public art doesn’t just reflect culture—it can catalyze it.

Example 4: The “Stone of Reflection” and Grief

In 2023, a woman placed a single red rose beside the “Stone of Reflection” after losing her husband. Others followed. Within weeks, the bench became an unofficial memorial site. The council initially considered removing the flowers, but after public petitions, they installed a small plaque: “Here, the river holds what words cannot.”

Today, the site is one of the most visited spots on the trail—not because it’s famous, but because it’s real.

FAQs

Is the South Bank Art Trail free to visit?

Yes. All outdoor artworks are accessible at no cost. Some indoor exhibits at the Tate Modern and South Bank Centre require tickets, but the trail itself is entirely free and open to the public.

How long does it take to walk the entire trail?

At a leisurely pace with stops, plan for 4–6 hours. If you’re in a rush, you can cover the main highlights in 2 hours, but you’ll miss the depth of the experience.

Are there restrooms along the trail?

Yes. Public toilets are available at the Tate Modern, South Bank Centre, County Hall, and near London Bridge. Most are open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, dogs are welcome on leashes. Many locals walk their dogs along the trail daily. Please clean up after them.

Is the trail suitable for children?

Absolutely. Interactive pieces like the mirrored Kapoor sculpture and the sound installations engage young minds. The “Watermark” plaques are great for teaching poetry. Many schools organize field trips here.

Are there guided tours available?

Yes. Free guided walks are offered every Saturday at 11:00 AM, starting at the London Eye. Book via the South Bank Centre website. Private tours can also be arranged.

What’s the best time of year to walk the trail?

Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer is lively but busy. Winter is quiet and atmospheric—ideal for contemplative walks.

Can I take photos for commercial use?

Photography for personal use is permitted. For commercial or editorial use, you must obtain permission from the artist or the South Bank Centre. Contact their press office for details.

What if I can’t walk the entire trail?

No problem. You can start at any point. The Tate Modern to London Bridge stretch is the most concentrated. Or, focus on the area between the London Eye and the South Bank Centre—this 1.5-kilometer segment contains 15 major works.

Is the trail safe at night?

The South Bank is well-lit and patrolled. Many people walk it after dark, especially in summer. However, like any urban area, remain aware of your surroundings. Stick to the main path.

Conclusion

The South Bank Art Trail is more than a route—it’s a living archive of creativity, memory, and collective identity. Each sculpture, mural, and sound installation is a thread in a larger tapestry that connects London’s past, present, and future. To walk this trail is to participate in an ongoing conversation between the city and its people.

There is no single “correct” way to experience it. You might come for the famous pieces and leave moved by a tiny, overlooked plaque. You might come alone and leave with a new friend. You might come seeking beauty and find grief, joy, anger, or peace.

What matters is that you show up. That you slow down. That you look—not just with your eyes, but with your heart.

As you stand on the edge of the Thames, watching the water carry leaves, boats, and reflections toward the sea, remember: art is not confined to walls. It lives in the spaces between us—in the wind, the light, the silence, and the stories we choose to listen to.

So lace up your shoes. Bring curiosity. And walk.