Southbank Centre
Belvedere Road London SE1 8XX
10am - 11pm daily (venues vary)
Nearest Tube: Waterloo, Embankment, Waterloo East, Charing Cross
1 - 4 hours
All
https://www.euansguide.com/venues/southbank-centre-london-169
FREE (events vary)
Based on 16 reviews
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About the Southbank Centre
Southbank Centre is one of those magical London spots that effortlessly blends high culture with low-stress family fun. Perched on the River Thames, it’s a giant arts complex that somehow manages to feel welcoming, playful and totally unpretentious. Whether your gang is into gigs, sculpture trails, or just chasing pigeons with an ice cream, there’s always something happening.
Families love the regular kids’ concerts, free creative workshops and fun installations (many of which are hands-on – yes, really). There’s a play area outside, room to scoot or picnic, and the Southbank Centre Food Market nearby serves up everything from bao buns to brownies. It’s accessible, buggy-friendly, and an ideal place for multi-generational outings where grandparents can soak up some culture, and kids can run riot without side-eye.
You don’t need to book unless you’re catching a show, but checking the listings ahead of time is a great way to make the most of your visit.
Top tip from the KidRated Team:
Check out the “Imagine Children’s Festival” in February or “Summer at Southbank” – both packed with family-friendly activities. And follow Southbank Centre on social media – they often post about free pop-up performances, art trails, and workshops that aren’t always listed elsewhere.
Yes, from toddlers to teens, there’s loads to explore. Think art installations, family concerts, creative workshops and open spaces to roam.
Yes. Most of the outdoor spaces, exhibitions and installations are free. Some performances or events do require paid tickets.
Weekday mornings are quieter, but weekends and school holidays offer the most family-focused activities. Check the events calendar before heading out.
Yes for general access, riverside strolls, the playground, and food stalls. For ticketed performances or festivals, book ahead online.
Yes, indoor concerts, exhibitions and workshops run all year. Pop into the Royal Festival Hall or Hayward Gallery for dry, cultural fun.
Totally – there are step-free entrances, lifts, accessible toilets, and wide open walkways both inside and out.
Absolutely. There’s an on-site café, plus loads of riverside options and a top-notch street food market next door.
Yes, there’s plenty of seating outside and grassy spots nearby for picnics. The views are free and fab.
Yes. There’s plenty of seating, level access throughout, cultural programming for all ages, and it’s easy to navigate.
You’re minutes from the London Eye, Jubilee Gardens, SEA LIFE, Shrek’s Adventure, National Theatre and the BFI. A family day out jackpot!
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The south bank is such a fun and interesting place! Especially for kids.Theres always something going on there, great places to eat,skating and lots more.Its right next to the Thames so it’s very scenic!