London Borough of Southwark

Southwark is on the south side of the River Thames opposite Westminster, the City of London and Tower Hamlets.  Although less well known than its neighbors, it has several places of interest that will appeal to many visitors.  The Southwark Council web site has a basic map showing its districts.  The web site also has and excellent introduction to the history of Southwark and information about its many attractions.

A most important part of Southwark's history is its connection to William Shakespeare and the Globe Theatre.  Shakespeare's Globe is an online resource founded by Sam Wanamaker to promote a greater appreciation of Shakespeare and opportunities to experience his plays.  See also the Performing Arts page on Southwark's web site for other local theater performances.

Charles Dickens also had a connection with Southwark though not always a happy one.

The Cuming Museum presents collections related to the history of Southwark.  The Livesey Museum for Children is a hands-on museum that will delight many children.

The Dulwich Picture Gallery  is small by London standards but has an acclaimed collection of old Masters.

John Harvard, benefactor and founder of Harvard University, and William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania, emigrated from Southwark to the American colonies that were to become the United States.

The Royal Festival Hall and the National Theatre are major venues for cultural activities in London.  They are on the south bank of the river adjacent to Waterloo Bridge 

The Brunel Engine House is in the Rotherhithe district. It originally contained the steam driven pumps used to keep the Thames Tunnel clear of water. It now holds exhibits that explain the origins of modern tunneling and the contributions made by Marc Isambard Brunel and his son Isambard Kingdom Brunel in civil engineering.

National Trust properties:  The George Inn is at 77 Borough High Street

Southwark Cathedral dates from the early 13th Century and has some of the earliest Gothic architecture in London.  It is on the south bank of the river, close to London Bridge and offers excellent views of the City of London and the City of Westminster.  Close by the cathedral are the remains of Winchester Palace which was once the house of the Bishops of Winchester.  This is an English Heritage property.  Lambeth Palace is official home of the Archbishop of Canterbury.

St. George's Roman Catholic Cathedral is southeast of Waterloo Station and dates from 1840.  Its web site has an interesting history of religion in Southwark and a useful map of the area.

The Imperial War Museum has exhibits regarding British and Commonwealth conflicts, especially since the First World War.  It is near St. George's Cathedral.  The Cabinet War Rooms are part of the museum and will be of particular interest to students of World War II.  

See also the Museums and Galleries pages on the council's web site for other related attractions in Southwark. 

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