Led by Chief Executive of South Bank Employers’ Group and South Bank Business Improvement District, Nic Durston, this engaging tour traces the story of the South Bank from the mid-nineteenth century through the twentieth century and into the new millennium. It’s a story of regeneration, renewal, redevelopment and reinvention — shaped by bold architecture, iconic buildings and a rich culture of design and creativity.
But South Bank’s story is also about people. Residents, campaigners and local communities have played a vital role in shaping one of London’s most distinctive and authentic neighbourhoods, ensuring it remains a place where culture, public life and everyday London intersect.
Starting at Jubilee Gardens — the site of the 1951 Festival of Britain — the tour explores a remarkable concentration of pioneering architecture along the River Thames. Along the way we’ll encounter landmarks including the London Eye, Royal Festival Hall, National Theatre and BFI Southbank.
We’ll also look at key moments in South Bank’s regeneration, including the revival of the OXO Tower and the community-led development of the Coin Street Estate. The River Thames will remain a constant companion throughout the walk, offering a lens through which to understand the area’s past, present and future.
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