Secrets of South Bank: An Audio Tour of London's Old Port

London , United Kingdom

Secrets of South Bank: An Audio Tour of London's Old Port

Active

1h - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Just 40 years ago, London’s South Bank was known as the ‘Pool of London’, home to a number of wharves that received cargo from all over the world. Today, this pedestrian-friendly area is a hive of completely different activity.

On this South Bank walking tour, you’ll find out the history behind the area and see how it’s been sensitively converted to allow us to appreciate its industrial architecture, and even some of the atmosphere of the old Port of London.

As you make your way along the South Bank of the Thames, you’ll see historic structures including HMS Belfast and several dramatic modern developments. You’ll follow the cobbled street of Shad Thames, surrounded by former dock wharves and high-level bridges linking to distribution depots – now all converted into apartments or eateries such as the famous Pont de la Tour restaurant.

By the end, you’ll have covered 2,000 years of English history and seen how the former docks have been transformed into 21st-century attractions.

Available options

Secrets of South Bank: An Audio Tour of London's Old Port

What's included

VoiceMap App for Android and iOS

Lifetime access to this tour in English

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

This self-guided audio tour starts near London Bridge in front of St Olaf House, once a church and now an Art Deco office block with a connection to early Viking invaders.

Stop 2 Pass by

I’ll tell you about the many structures that’ve been built across the river from Roman times onwards, from the medieval Old London Bridge (once considered one of the ‘wonders of the world’), to today’s reinforced concrete bridge.

Stop 3 Pass by

On this tour, you'll pass The Horniman at Hays. You'll hear about it as you walk.

Stop 4 Pass by

As you make your way along the South Bank of the Thames, you’ll see historic structures including HMS Belfast (a former World War II cruiser, now a museum) and several dramatic modern developments.

Stop 5 Pass by

On this self-guided audio tour, you'll have a chance to view the Tower of London across the river and the famous Traitor’s Gate, where condemned people were landed before being executed on Tower Hill.

Stop 6 Pass by

The tour ends next to Horsleydown Steps, with a stunning close-up view of Tower Bridge.

Stop 7 Pass by

You'll have a chance to stroll along St Saviours Dock and hear its history.

You’ll follow the cobbled street of Shad Thames, surrounded by former dock wharves and high-level bridges linking to distribution depots – now all converted into apartments or eateries such as the famous Pont de la Tour restaurant.

On this self-guided audio tour, you'll have a chance to enjoy a drink in Tower Bridge Piazza with a view of the rather erotic fountain statues by the modern sculptor, Donaldson.

The tour ends next to Horsleydown Steps, with a stunning close-up view of Tower Bridge.

Stop 11 Pass by

On this self-guided audio tour, you'll have a chance to admire the reconstructed wharf now known as Hay’s Galleria, with its steel and glass canopy and massive maritime sculpture.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Transportation

Food and drink

Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route

Available languages

Audio guide

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

This tour starts outside St. Olaf House. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
───
Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

1. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
2. Create an account
3. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
4. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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• You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
• This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
• When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
• Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About London

London, the capital of England and the United Kingdom, is a vibrant, multicultural metropolis known for its rich history, iconic landmarks, and dynamic cultural scene. From the ancient Tower of London to the modern Shard, the city offers a blend of the old and the new, making it a fascinating destination for travelers from around the world.

Top Attractions

Tower of London

A historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames. It has served as a royal palace, prison, armory, and treasury. The Crown Jewels are also housed here.

Historical 2-3 hours £28 (adult ticket)

Buckingham Palace

The official residence of the British monarch. Visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony and tour the State Rooms during the summer.

Historical 1-2 hours £27.50 (adult ticket for State Rooms)

The British Museum

One of the world's largest and most comprehensive museums, housing a vast collection of artifacts from around the globe.

Museum 2-3 hours Free (special exhibitions may have a charge)

The London Eye

A giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames, offering panoramic views of the city.

Entertainment 30 minutes £27-£33 (adult ticket)

Westminster Abbey

A large, mainly Gothic abbey church just to the west of the Palace of Westminster. It is one of the most notable religious buildings in the UK and the traditional place of coronation and burial for English and, later, British monarchs.

Religious 1-2 hours £27 (adult ticket)

Tower Bridge

An iconic symbol of London, this combined bascule and suspension bridge spans the River Thames. Visitors can explore the bridge's walkways and the Tower Bridge Exhibition.

Architecture 1-2 hours £11 (adult ticket for the exhibition)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fish and Chips

A classic British dish consisting of battered and fried fish, usually cod or haddock, served with thick-cut chips (fries).

Dinner Contains gluten and fish

Full English Breakfast

A hearty breakfast consisting of eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, black pudding, and toast.

Breakfast Contains meat and gluten

Afternoon Tea

A quintessential British tradition involving a selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of pastries, all served with tea.

Snack Can be adapted for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets

Sunday Roast

A traditional British meal served on Sundays, featuring roasted meat (usually beef, lamb, or chicken), Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, vegetables, and gravy.

Dinner Contains meat and gluten

Popular Activities

Rock climbing Kayaking on the Thames Cycling tours Afternoon tea Spas and wellness centers Punting on the River Cam Museum visits Theater performances

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in London, with long daylight hours and a variety of festivals and events. The weather is generally pleasant, though it can be unpredictable.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

London is generally safe for travelers, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Heathrow Airport • 23 km from city center
Gatwick Airport • 40 km from city center

By train

London Waterloo, London King's Cross

By bus

Victoria Coach Station, Earls Court, Farringdon

Getting around

Public transport

The Tube is the fastest and most efficient way to get around London. It operates from early morning until late at night and covers all major attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Westminster Camden Town Soho Notting Hill Shoreditch Greenwich

Day trips

Windsor Castle

34 km from London • Half day to full day

Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and it's one of the official residences of the British monarch.

Stonehenge

130 km from London • Full day

Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument consisting of a ring of standing stones, located in the English county of Wiltshire.

Brighton

80 km from London • Full day

Brighton is a vibrant coastal city known for its beaches, lively atmosphere, and eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Festivals

Notting Hill Carnival • Last Sunday and Monday of August London Film Festival • October New Year's Eve Fireworks • December 31

Pro tips

Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for cheaper and more convenient public transportation
Book tickets in advance for popular attractions to skip the queue and save money
Explore the city's neighborhoods and markets for a unique and authentic experience
Try the local street food and international cuisine at markets like Borough Market and Camden Market
Visit the city's parks and gardens for a peaceful escape from the bustling streets