Waterloo

Waterloo is an area along the south bank of the Thames in South London, anchored by a major railway station and surrounded by theaters, concert halls, and art centers. The neighborhood contains a mix of Victorian-era buildings, modern cultural venues, and busy streets filled with shops, restaurants, and markets.

The area developed around Waterloo Bridge, which opened in the early 1800s and sparked growth from marshland into an urban district. The arrival of the railway in the mid-1800s transformed it into a major transportation hub that shaped the neighborhood we see today.

The theaters and arts centers here draw performers and audiences from across the city for plays, concerts, and exhibitions throughout the year. Walking through the neighborhood, you see creative spaces tucked between historic buildings, shaping how residents and visitors experience entertainment and culture.

The station connects to four Underground lines and many rail services to other parts of London and beyond, making arrival straightforward from almost anywhere. Most attractions in the area sit within walking distance of each other, and the streets near the river are flat and easy to navigate on foot.

Lower Marsh Market operates with food vendors most days, but transforms on Saturdays when vintage sellers and local craftspeople take over with secondhand goods and handmade items. This weekly shift gives the same street two completely different characters depending on when you visit.

Location: London Borough of Lambeth

GPS coordinates: 51.50130,-0.11200

Latest update: December 7, 2025 09:23