Borough

Southwark

About:

The London Borough of Southwark is located directly south of the River Thames and forms part of Inner London.

London owes its position to the natural features of Southwark's early landscape. As the first crossing place across the River Thames, Roman Southwark grew rapidly, covering up to 45 acres at its peak.

During Anglo Saxon times Southwark became the greatest traffic and trading centre in the country. Such was its importance by 1295 that it was the only town outside of the City permitted to send two representatives to Parliament.

Southwark's proximity to the river Thames led to strong links across the world. The Mayflower, which carried the pilgrim fathers to America in 1620 was captained by a local man.

Routes that go through Southwark:

Green Chain Walk:

Section 11 (Crystal Palace to Nunhead Cemetery)

Jubilee Walkway:

Section 1 (The Western Loop walk)

Section 2 (The Eastern Loop walk)

Thames Path National Trail:

Section 2 (Albert Bridge to Tower Bridge)

Jubilee Greenway:

Section 7 (Greenwich to Tower Bridge)

Section 8 (Tower Bridge to Westminster Bridge (via South Bank)

Jubilee Walkway:

The Jubilee Walkway enters Southwark from Lambeth, runs along the south bank of the Thames and leaves Southwark crossing the Thames on Tower Bridge

Population:

244,866 which is 3.4% of the total London population (2001 Census)

Area:

30 square kilometres

Tube:

The borough is served by the Jubilee, Northern, Bakerloo and East London Lines. Visit http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tube/ for more information.

Rail:

Train services in the borough are run by First Capital Connect, Southeastern and Southern Trains. Visit http://www.tfl.gov.uk/rail/ for more information.

Bus:

Southwark is served by a comprehensive network of bus routes. Visit http://www.tfl.gov.uk/buses/ for more information.

Green space:

Although at the heart of London, Southwark has lots of parks and open spaces, many of which have won awards. Each park has its own characteristics including tranquil gardens, nature trails and sporting facilities. A remarkable 25% of Southwark is open spaces.

Local Authority:

Southwark London Borough Council

Other Information:

For more information about walking in Southwark visit http://www.walksouthwark.org.uk/

Visit the Dorling Kindersley website for a free audio guide of a walk which starts at Westminster station and follows the south bank for about 1 ¾ miles to London Bridge. Read by Radio 2's Richard Allinson it tells you where to look, where to stop and where to eat and drink along the way.

Visit the Totally London website to watch a short video (3 minutes) of part of the Jubilee Walkway from the London Eye to St Paul’s.