City Hike London (Big Ben to Tower Bridge) — Friends Edition

Why this experience

A full-day walking adventure from Waterloo to Tower Bridge, designed for a group of friends who like street art, food markets, and London's best free views. From Banksy's Tunnel to Borough Market, the Tate Modern to Sky Garden—this city hike covers 10+ miles of London's South Bank and City highlights, mixing art, food, history and rooftop views in one energetic day.

You'll start at Waterloo Station and immediately duck into Leake Street Arches, where Banksy and his collaborators painted a legendary tunnel before it became a legal graffiti space. The tunnel is covered with ever-changing street art—part gallery, part living canvas. From there, you'll walk the entire South Bank: Southbank Centre's terraces, street performers, and cultural venues blend into the energy of Borough Market, where you'll taste-test your way through artisan cheeses, sourdough, and local delicacies. Your group can take time here—this isn't a rush-through experience.

In the afternoon, you'll visit the Tate Modern (free entry), walk across the Millennium Bridge to St Paul's Cathedral, then head to Sky Garden, a hidden rooftop gem with 360-degree views of London that rivals the pricier observation decks. Finally, you'll walk to the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, ending with the option to cross the bridge at sunset or explore its walkway. By day's end, you'll have seen London's architectural past and present, tasted its food, and experienced the kind of day that bonds friends through shared discovery.

Before you go

• Best time: Spring through autumn. Summer is busiest, with crowds at markets and museums. Spring and early autumn offer mild weather and shorter queues. Winter is fine for indoor museums but cold for walking.
• Budget: This is self-guided with optional paid experiences. Budget for Borough Market lunch (varies widely, £10-30 per person), Tate Modern entry (free), and optional Tower Bridge walkway (additional cost). Check the booking widget if you want a guided version.
• Difficulty: Moderate. You'll walk 10+ miles over a full day, but the pace is leisurely with many long stops. Bring comfortable, well-broken-in walking shoes.
• What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes, a backpack, water bottle, snacks, camera, sunscreen, and a light jacket (weather varies). Wear layers so you can adjust as you move between indoors and out.
• Getting there: Start at Waterloo Station (Bakerloo, Northern, Jubilee, and Waterloo & City lines). The entire route follows the Thames or nearby streets, making it easy to pause, rest, or redirect based on group energy.
• Accessibility: Most of South Bank and the route to Tower Bridge is accessible and level. Borough Market has some uneven ground and narrow passages. Tate Modern has lifts and accessible routes. The Tower Bridge walkway involves stairs and may not be suitable for all mobility levels.

Frequently asked questions

Can we skip parts of the route? Absolutely. This is a self-guided itinerary—skip what doesn't appeal and stay longer where you want. Some groups spend most of the day at Borough Market and Tate, others focus on street art and rooftop views.

How long should we spend at Borough Market? That depends on appetite and interest. A 45-minute browse-and-taste is enough to get the vibe. Budget 1.5-2 hours if you're eating a proper lunch there.

Is Leake Street graffiti legal? Yes. After Banksy painted it in 2008, it was officially designated a legal graffiti space. It's maintained as a collaborative art location, and what you see changes seasonally.

What's included in this itinerary? This itinerary is self-guided and free to read on TheNextGuide. All museums (Tate Modern) have free entry, though donations are welcome. Borough Market, street art, and river walks are free to access. Optional paid experiences include Tower Bridge walkway and any dining. The itinerary provides detailed routes, timing, and neighbourhood background.

Complete your trip in London

Extend your friendship adventure with other London days.

• London in 3 days - Friends, fun and vibrant weekend — Stretch your trip to three full days with different themes: food, culture, and nightlife.
• 2-day fun and vibrant London weekend for friends — A shorter version covering London's best social and cultural experiences.
• One high-energy day in London for friends — A faster-paced alternative if you want more destinations and less lingering.

Browse all London itineraries at TheNextGuide.

Last updated: April 2026