Southwark (Waterloo)

Southwark is actually a large borough, but the area directly at the southbank is often called by this name. It is just across the river from the very centre of London but already the atmosphere is much more relaxed. There is some innovative architecture and many opportunities for culture. There are also some of the most iconic constructions of London, such as the London Eye and OXO Tower. The south bank walk hosts many festivals and other events every now and then.

Art & Culture:

• Tate Modern is the museum of modern art residing in a massive factory. The permanent collections are free, but you have to pay to see the changing exhibitions. The building is a fantastic work of art in itself. I especially like the turbine hall and the Tanks downstairs, where there are often video and installation art.
• The Southbank Centre is a magnificent futuristic concrete building with art galleries, concerts, theatre and various exhibitions. Close to it by the Thames there are often changing markets and booksellers. It's also a great place to find some street food or craft beer in various and changing pop-up restaurants and bars.
  
• The Vaults is a great underground venue for arts, music and theatre etc. It's located near the graffiti tunnel and it's filled with neon lights and various interesting bars.

Sights: 

• Well, there is the London Eye, which is probably a good way to see the city from above, but it costs a lot. I myself find that there are better ways to see London from high up.
• Underneath the Waterloo Station, there is a graffiti tunnel full of graffiti of different sorts. 

Shopping:

• Right beside The Thames under Waterloo Bridge there's often a small marketplace selling cheap second-hand books.  

 Drinking:

• I don't know many great pubs in Southwark. Most of the places are really crowded as in most of touristic London. The Anchor is no exeption, but the place looks great with its small passages, crooked floors and walls and old windows. Good beers on tap and even a nice terrace with a view to the Thames. 

Eating:

• Tas is a great Turkish restaurant with some amazing mezes, delicious moussakas and other delights of the Turkish cuisine. It's not too expensive for this area either. 

Markets:

• In the weekends, there's a great food market behind the Royal Festival Hall where you can find sweet and savoury treats to eat at
  
  the river front.

Areas around Southwark: Borough, Lambeth, Westminster, Holborn, City