Walking the Thames

London has no single centre. The city changes completely from one neighbourhood to the next, and first-time visitors often spend the day on the Underground rather than in the city itself. The river is the antidote: walking the south bank of the Thames strings London together along one line.

The route

Start at Westminster and walk east towards Tower Bridge. On the way, in order: the London Eye, the Southbank Centre, Tate Modern and Borough Market — all of them directly on the path, none requiring a detour. Two hours at an easy pace.

Why the south bank

The north bank has the history but the footpath keeps breaking. The south bank has an unbroken promenade, and the view faces the other way: as you walk you are looking at Parliament, at St Paul's, and at the towers of the City.

Two worth stopping for

Even if you skip the galleries, put your head into Tate Modern's Turbine Hall — it is free and the building alone is worth it. Borough Market solves lunch; time the walk to arrive there.

One small note

London weather turns in five minutes. Take a light waterproof even if you set out in sun; it is always windier by the river.