Bankside, district of London, England, and part of the London Borough of Southwark
Bankside is an area on the south side of the River Thames extending from Blackfriars Bridge to near London Bridge. It displays a mix of older buildings and modern structures, with busy streets, small alleys, and riverside spots where people can sit and watch the water.
During the Elizabethan period, Bankside lay outside the city walls and became known for theaters and entertainment, notably hosting the Globe Theatre. The area later transformed into an industrial and trading center in the 18th and 19th centuries, with warehouses, docks, and factories shaping its economy.
The name Bankside originates from 'the banke', the historical term for the riverside land once owned by the Bishop of Winchester. The area built its reputation through entertainment and markets that shaped daily life and drew visitors from across London for centuries.
The area is well served by several train stations including London Bridge and Southwark, and is connected to the north side via the Millennium Bridge. Walking is the best way to explore, with flat terrain and numerous public spaces to rest along the riverside.
A replica of the Globe Theatre shows visitors how theater looked and operated during Shakespeare's time. A former power station was converted into the Tate Modern, one of the leading art galleries, demonstrating how old industrial buildings can serve entirely new purposes.
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