Living in Southbank means being in the heart of the capital, surrounded by the energy and culture of central London, while still having a peaceful place within it to call home. Its riverside setting and distinctive atmosphere offer a lifestyle that combines the excitement of the city with opportunities to slow down and unwind.

Below we explore what makes Southbank such a nice area of London to call home.

5 of the best things about living in Southbank, London

1. World-class culture on your doorstep

One of the best things about living in Southbank is that it puts some of London’s most recognisable cultural destinations within easy reach. For those interested in art, theatre, live music or film, the Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe, National Theatre, Southbank Centre, and BFI Southbank are all nearby.

The area also offers views of some of London’s most iconic landmarks, including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, and St Paul’s Cathedral, across the river, giving the area quite the impressive backdrop.

Many of these destinations are within walking distance, giving Southbank residents the chance to experience some of the capital’s most impressive cultural landmarks without having to travel far from home.

2. Excellent choice of riverside dining

From thriving street food pop-ups to world-class riverside restaurants, there’s plenty of choice for dining around Southbank regardless of what the occasion calls for.

Start the day with a barista-made coffee from a local café, before picking up lunch at a nearby food market, such as the world-famous Borough Market. In the evening, riverside restaurants provide opportunities to enhance a meal with a gorgeous view of the city.

With a wide range of shops and everyday amenities also close by, you can easily combine an afternoon of browsing with a delicious lunch or dinner by the river.

3. Green space and riverside walks

An unexpected benefit of living in Southbank is that, even with its central London location, it still offers plenty of spots to spend time outdoors.

The entirely pedestrianised Queen’s Walk offers views along the River Thames and towards the area’s landmarks, while the full Thames Path provides an extended riverside route for running or walking. Nearby parks and gardens also provide space to pause and enjoy some calm, away from the busier parts of the city.

These outdoor spaces are well suited to everyday routines, whether that’s a morning walk, an after-work run along the river or somewhere to relax on a sunny weekend. They provide a welcome change of pace from the buzz of the capital and add to what makes Southbank such a nice area to live in London.

4. Connectivity across the city

While Southbank places you in the centre of London, with many of the capital’s attractions within walking distance, its transport connections also keep you well connected to the wider capital.

Waterloo is one of the area’s major transport hubs, providing National Rail and Underground routes, while Blackfriars, Southwark and London Bridge offer further options to travel across London and beyond.

This level of connectivity is particularly attractive to professionals who may need to regularly commute to the likes of Bank and Canary Wharf. It also means London’s wider amenities, from top restaurants to museums and entertainment venues, are readily accessible.

5. A private sanctuary in the heart of the capital

Living in Southbank also means being surrounded by the area’s energetic atmosphere, cultural hotspots and riverside setting. For residents of Opus, you will also benefit from our own wide array of amenities.

Our stunning spaces, like The Gallery on 23 and The Garden Rooms, are the perfect spots to relax amongst nature. Residents can also make use of our extensive collection of wellness and leisure facilities, including a gym, a yoga and Pilates studio, a hydrotherapy pool, a spa, a sauna, and a padel court.

Experience living in Southbank, London, with Opus

Living in Southbank puts the best of central London within easy reach. The neighbourhood is suited to those who want to embrace the energy and opportunities of city life, while still having somewhere peaceful to call home.

Explore luxury apartments and experience riverside living in the heart of the capital with Opus.