Simple Activities to Keep Your Kids Entertained This Half Term
Borough Market are hosting a series of fun and inspiring activities, including Halloween biscuit decorating, arts and craft, face painting and more! Perfect for primary-age children, these sessions are designed to get kids thinking creatively about the food they eat.
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Luke Jerram’s Gaia returns to Southwark Cathedral this October as part of a programme designed to inspire visitors of all ages into positive action to protect our planet.
Join us on Sunday 8th September for Live at the Golden Hinde a day of entertainment, learning, and fun!
This event is part of Heritage open days, and is one of their New Wave events that has been created and organised by 18-25 year olds.
Live Performances:
Enjoy live performances from local music groups, including the Nightingale Singers. Historical Exploration and activities:
Discover the incredible challenges faced by Sir Francis Drake and his crew, including skirmishes, storms, and scurvy. There will be Hands-on activities that are fun and informative that will make history come alive for all ages.
Silent Disco:
As the sun sets, the Golden Hinde transforms into a floating dance floor. Grab your headphones and dance the night away under the stars with the stunning backdrop of the Golden Hinde and the River Thames.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a music lover, or just looking for a unique experience, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable event aboard the Golden Hinde!
Tickets are free but must be booked in advance via The Golden Hinde’s website.
Timings
1500 – 1800: live music
1900 – 2200: silent disco
The full-size reconstruction of the first English ship to circumnavigate the globe is berthed beside the River Thames next to Southwark Cathedral and Borough Market.
Circumnavigating the globe was incredibly difficult in the 16th century. Under the command of Sir Francis Drake, the crew faced considerable challenges including skirmishes, storms and scurvy. When you step on bord the ship, you will get the opportunity to meet some of the crew members including the navigator who will recount the astonishing journey that the original ship took, the gunner who might ask for your help loading the canons and the barber-surgeon who has many gory tales to share.
Tickets for these special free Heritage Open Day tours must be booked in advance via The Golden Hinde’s website. Tours will run every half hour from 10am to 4pm (last tour at 3.30pm).
As part of London Design Festival 2024, Better Bankside is hosting leading creative agencies and typeface designers to discuss the inspiration behind their work:
TypeLand and how an amazing bespoke font was created for The Globe.
To The Point, their work for “force for good” campaigns including the Southwark Climate Collective.
The Team and how they reshaped the typeface of one of the largest and oldest savings organisations in the UK.
Plus others…
Drinks will be served with time for networking before and afterwards.
Rum is a glorious and versatile spirit to be celebrated by all! This year we have once again partnered with the amazing RumCask team to bring you a very special in person rum tasting!
On Thursday August 15th from 6:30pm until 9.30pm we will have several different rum stations featuring a minimum of 20 unique rums for you to sample aboard The Golden Hinde the stunning recreation of the Elizabethan Sir Francis Drake ship that circumnavigated the world, now here in the heart of London.
Come and sample some unique rums and learn more about the beautiful diversity and history of one of the nation’s favourite spirits. You’ll also be able to purchase your favourite rum of the night!
Take over the Golden Hinde for a whole night and sleep on the ship as you and your group become the crew of the Golden Hinde and experience life as a 16th century mariner through hands-on activities and immersive role-play.
Suitable for children aged 5 – 10 years old. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Adults without children will not be permitted to take part.
Ever wondered what it takes to be a pirate? Bring your little ones to our pirate training and learn how to sing a sea shanty, haul the anchor, fire a cannon and fight with a cutlass.
Duration: 45mins
Suitable for children aged 5 – 10 years old.
Pirate Training tickets include admission to the ship. Only children can participate in pirate training activities and need to purchase a pirate training ticket (£11). All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Accompanying adults will need to purchase an admission ticket (£6).
There’s a major new motion picture being made on the Golden Hinde and you’ve signed up as an extra.
You haven’t even seen a script when a body is found. But it’s not part of the set. Someone on the ship is a killer and the inspector needs your help to find out who.
Grab an evidence bag, search the ship, confront suspects and see if you can work out who is the real villain of the piece.
Think ‘Only Murders in the Building’ but on a film set, ‘Knives Out’ on a boat, Agatha Christie paired with sharp contemporary minds!
A free drink is included in the ticket price to help lubricate your lobes.
Solving crime is thirsty work!
FAQs
To celebrate Mother’s Day, The Golden Hinde is offering half-price tickets to come on board!
The full-scale reconstruction of the famous Elizabethan galleon, captained by Sir Francis Drake, is located just around the corner from Southwark Cathedral and Borough Market. During your visit, the ship’s “crew” will tell the fascinating story of the first English circumnavigation of the world and what it was like to live and sail aboard a 16th century ship.
Join one of our female pirate talks and be guided throughout the ship learning about legendary female pirates. Female Pirate tours will take place at 11am and 2pm and are included in admission price.
Visitors can either book tickets via The Golden Hinde’s website or just turn up on the day! Please check the website for opening times.
Price:
Adult: £3
Child: £3
Family of 4: £9
Under 3 years old: Free
To celebrate International Women’s History Month, we are focusing our weekend tours on women pirates. Historically, women were not allowed to remain on ships once they had set sail as it was thought to bring bad luck but some were not deterred by this.
Come and find out more about these fearless women:
Once the tour is finished you are welcome to stay aboard and explore the ship.
Tours are included in the admission price and will last 45 minutes.
Tours are suitable for all ages.
Come aboard The Golden Hinde this half term and discover what life was like for a Tudor sailor.
After the tour you can stay aboard to explore the ship.
Run time: 45 mins
Tours are included in the admission price and suitable for all ages.
Adult/Child: £6
Family of 4: £18
Under 3 years old: Free
On 28th January 1596 Sir Francis Drake died of dysentery off the coast of Panama.
Join the Barber Surgeon tour on 28th January at 11am to learn about the life and death of Sir Francis Drake, Tudor medicine and diseases.
The tour will last 45 minutes and is suitable for all ages.
The Barber Surgeon tour is part of the Pay What You Want event at The Golden Hinde. People taking part in the tour are invited to “Pay What You Want” as they exit the ship.
Booking is not essential.
From 8th to 31st January, all general visitors to The Golden Hinde are being invited to “Pay What You Want”.
Come aboard and explore The Golden Hinde. Discover the history behind the famous circumnavigation and pay what you feel your experience was worth as you leave.
‘Pay What You Want’ tickets can be booked online, or you can visit the ship without a ticket.
Please note, the ship is sometimes closed for private events. Please check the ‘visit us’ page for up to date opening times.
The Frost Fair is returning for its second year. Join us from 26-28 January on Sumner Street, as we celebrate one of the most extraordinary events in London’s history. From circa 1605 to 1814, the surface of the River Thames froze over 24 times, bringing all trade on the water to a standstill. So the people of Bankside took to the ice, creating ‘Frost Fairs’, with a sensational cornucopia of markets, amusement, food, drink, games, pubs, shops, entertainment and general revelry!
A night of magic and mischief awaits on our Spooktacular 12th Knot rooftop playground, as we will be throwing one hell of a party this Halloween.
With tantalising Halloween cocktails, unadulterated musical mischief from DJ Andy Purnell and Just Yas and and the stylish atmosphere that 12th Knot does best, guests are advised to leave their inhibitions at the door, put on their sleekest Halloween attire and join us for a night like no other.
There will be a £100 bar tab up for grabs for the best-dressed guest on the night – all you need to do is tag 12th Knot in your pics for a chance to win!
Marvel at the Moon as it lands at Southwark Cathedral this October.
Following the success of Gaia in Southwark Cathedral’s nave last autumn, artist Luke Jerram returns to Southwark this October with his incredible Museum of the Moon artwork. Measuring seven metres in diameter, the replica of the moon features high resolution NASA imagery of the lunar surface. At an approximate scale of 1:500,000, each centimetre of the internally lit spherical sculpture represents 5km of the moon’s surface.
This awe-inspiring large-scale display features minute detail of the lunar surface using NASA imagery, and a surround sound composition by BAFTA-winning composer Dan Jones.
Discover the art of handbuilding pottery with terracotta clay in MYO’s fun and engaging workshop in London! Learn the foundations of pottery and unleash your creativity as you design and build your own unique terracotta planters. No prior experience is required, so don’t worry if you’re new to pottery.
Ready your weapons, load the cannons, and raise the anchor as you take part in a special training session with the ship’s master. Are you ready for the pirate’s life?
The Pirate Training session lasts 45 minutes. Participants are welcome to explore the ship and take part in other activities before or after the session.
Each child must be accompanied by an paying adult.
Great for children aged 5 – 10 years old.
Pirate Training sessions running at 11:00 & 13:00
Join our pirate talks after your Pirate Training session.
Pirate Training £10 per child.
Standard admission £6 per adult.
All tickets purchased for Pirate Training include Pirate Takeover activities.
Ticket Link: https://www.goldenhinde.co.uk/whats-on#activity-whats-on-9-family-455-pirate-training-4
Led by knowledgeable, enthusiastic guides, this immersive tour offers a glimpse into the life of a 16th-century sailor. Hear the incredible tale of the first ship to circumnavigate the globe for the Kingdom of England. Climb aboard and allow the echoes of the past to guide you on a voyage through time on this remarkable ship
that embodies the spirit of adventure and exploration.
Each tour is approximately 30 minutes and suitable for all ages. Tours are included with admission.
Adult £6
Child £6
Group of 4: £18
For specific tour times, visit website.
Ticket Link: https://www.goldenhinde.co.uk/whats-on#activity-whats-on-9-family-469-summer-history-tours
This summer, from 7th – 13th August, step aboard The Golden Hinde for family fun and a piratical experience like no other.
It is time for our ultimate pirate take over event. Don your finest pirate attire, grab your eye patch and join us on this swash buckling adventure of discovery.
Meet our costumed historians as they unveil the history of pirates from around the world. Families can experience the life of a mariner onboard our 16th century ship or test your mettle by signing up to one of our “Pirate Training” sessions.
Included with standard admission:
-Uncover the real history of pirates from all around the world.
-Discover what life was really like on a 16th century ship.
-A voyage of discovery awaits.
Pirate Training sessions are an additional cost and are taking place at 11:00 and 13:00. Pirate Training workshop tickets include the Pirate Takeover talks. Get yourself shipshape and prepare to plunder. See website for further details.
Standard Admission for Pirate Takeover (no Pirate Training): £6 per person
Family Admission (4 people): £18
Ticket Link: https://www.goldenhinde.co.uk/whats-on#activity-whats-on-9-family-454-pirate-takeover-2
SAMA Bankside is one of the newest places to play Beer Pong in London town and you can book one of their Beer Pong tables for just £35 which includes the table, balls, cups and of course a jug of Amstel beer or cider to fill the cups with. Rules to Beer Pong on their website so book now and show your friends who’s best when it comes to hitting those cups!
Tuesdays-Fridays open at 5pm until late.
Saturdays open at 1pm until 1.30am.
Monday 24th July, come to The Lord Clyde for a bit of board game fun! What better way to chill out on a Monday night then playing board games with friends whilst enjoying one of their crisp refreshing craft beers! Board games start at 5pm and finish at 10pm. You will need to book a table to be certain to get in a game or two! They also serve a brilliant array of delicious food and drink.
Advance booking for events at The Lord Clyde are free entry though some bookings require a deposit which you will be able to use as a tab to spend at the bar on the day of your visit.
To launch Triptych Bankside, JTRE London is pleased to announce an exciting collaboration with London-based, international artist Jo Peel, whose work focuses on cities and urban regeneration.
Painter, print maker, animator and film maker, Jo will create an immersive 3D art installation with live music, street food and creative workshops to mark the launch of Triptych Bankside.
Featuring music, performance, talks, creative workshops and street food, this three-day celebration will all take place within a wildly imaginative immersive environment created by internationally renowned, London-based artist and designer Jo Peel.
Brush up your Shakespeare and Marlowe
Here’s your chance to participate in six of their best plays, in the Friends of The Rose’s sixth readathon. Some celebrities will be there to read. You’ll realise from the timings that the readings will just be that. If you feel you want to love, live or die your part (whatever is required), however, then please do so. It’ll be your chance to act in the very same spot that Will and Kit did (and something to tell your grandchildren).
To sustain you through the day, there will be Tudor snacks, cake, tea and coffee available in the foyer on your way in.
If you’re planning on bringing the kids to Borough Market during the Coronation weekend, they’re laying on some activities to not only keep them entertained, but help them explore the unique sights, smells and sounds of the marketplace.
Facepainting
The amazing Saskia will be in the Market Hall on Saturday 6th May, 11am – 2pm, offering a free, food-themed facepainting service for any child who wants to live up to the adage ‘you are what you eat’. Completed in a matter of minutes, her designs include cherries, ice creams and much else besides.
Market Explorers
For older primary-age children, Market Explorers packs – available at the Borough Market Store – provide background information and simple recipes relating to some of the seasonal British ingredients they’ll be able to find on the stalls.
The Art Academy Presents free sessions on Tuesdays in April and May – 25th April, 2nd May & 9th May
Four, free life drawing sessions on the theme of performance, as part of the Art Academy’s Outreach programme.
In each session you will draw different performers; musicians, dancers, actors and singers. Sometimes we will draw our models while they perform, making quick expressive drawings. Sometimes they will pose for us, giving us more time to create more detailed or accurate images. It will be a great opportunity to experiment with allowing the experience of a performance to inform your drawings, and have some fun with charcoal. All abilities welcome, please join us for as many of the sessions as you would like to.
These workshops are funded by the Hines (the building developer), who in return ask you to donate your drawings to be enlarged and reproduced onto the hoardings of their construction site at 18 Blackfriars Road.
If you would like your work to be displayed on the hoardings, the tutor will take a scan of your chosen image or images at the end of the session.
All materials will be provided for these sessions.
If you are curious to find out what other drawing and painting classes we offer, please visit the Art Academy London website at: www.artacademy.ac.uk
The Golden Hinde is getting on in yarrrrs and they’re celebrating with nautical themed cocktails!
Sign up for 3 delicious 50th anniversary cocktails and a tour of the ship accompanied by a soundtrack from the last 50 years.
Doors open at 19:30.
19:30 – Ocean Mist cocktail demo and tasting with a tour of the ship.
20:15 – Sex with the Captain cocktail demo and tasting.
21:00 – Golden Maritime Martini cocktail demo and tasting.
Night Voyage
22nd July & 27th August
Take over The Golden Hinde for a whole night and sleep on the ship as you and your group become the new crew.
Dressed in Elizabethan costume, three colourful characters from the ship’s history will guide you about the ship and teach you the skills required to sail on a galleon.
With lightning-quick cannon drills with the excitable Gunner, mastery of the navigational arts with the ship’s Master and lurid tales from the grisly Barber Surgeon, the Golden Hinde’s Night Voyages are full of excitement and rich in atmosphere.
Parents and children will then bunker down for the night on the ship’s gundeck.
Suitable for children from 6 – 11 years old.
All children must be accompanied by adults.
The evening starts from 17:00 and finishes at 09:00 the next day.
You will need to bring your own sleeping gear (as if it were a camping trip).
Tudor dinner and breakfast included. If anyone in your group has food allergies, please let The Golden Hinde know.
There are no showers aboard the ship.
Further details will be emailed to you once your tickets have been purchased.
Please note this event requires a minimum of 20 people in order to run. If not enough tickets are sold, your tickets may be rescheduled to another available date or you will be refunded.
Friday, April 21, 2023
Join us as we celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III.
Join us as we mark the Coronation with worship, musical recitals, a talk and more.
Monday 1 May
Coronation Organ Spectacular | Simon Hogan (Sub Organist)
Featuring music by Elgar, Walton, and a sequence of music from Masters of the King’s Music.
Admission free, donations welcome.
Thursday 4 May
Defenders of the Faith | A Talk by Catherine Pepinster
6.30pm
During the Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, the Christian Church will take centre stage once again, as the established religion in England. But why does the Church have such prominence in state affairs, and should it keep this privileged position in 21st Century, multi-faith Britain? Join journalist, author, media commentator and broadcaster Catherine Pepinster to explore the powerful link between religion and the British monarchy from its earliest times, through to the Reformation, the Civil War, and the reconfigured wholesome family monarchy of Victoria and her successors, down to Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II — and into the future as the new Defender of the Faith is crowned.
Tickets £5, available from Eventbrite.
Sunday 7 May
Celebratory Evensong and Launch of God Save the King
3pm
Join us at Southwark Cathedral for this special Service of Celebration as we mark the Coronation of King Charles III.
Join us for a special service of Choral Evensong to celebrate of the Coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort. All are welcome to hear prayers and Bible readings specifically selected for this momentous national occasion, with music by the Choir of Southwark Cathedral.
The service will be followed by the launch of God Save the King – A Guide to the National Anthem published by Hodder Faith. The Very Reverend Andrew Nunn, Dean of Southwark will be in conversation with Classic FM’s Anne-Marie Minhall who provided the introduction to this wonderful publication, and local artist Rosie Brooks who brought it to life with her colourful illustrations.
Copies of God Save the King – A Guide to the National Anthem will be available to purchase and Anne-Marie and Rosie will be available to sign copies.
Monday 8 May
Coronation Organ Spectacular | James Gough (Assistant Organist)
Music by Handel, Stanley, Boyce, Greene, and Walton.
Admission free, donations welcome.
Crossbones Graveyard is a unique place of peace and tranquility nestled in the heart of Bankside. It holds a deep cultural, historical and spiritual significance as it tells the history of London as seen from the bottom up.
As well as holding the mortal remains of 15,000 women, children and men, it also carries the memory of the Winchester Geese, the women who worked in the brothels and “stews” of the medieval Liberty of the Clink. Licensed by the Church to ply their prostitute trade but denied a Christian burial.
Join Jennifer Cooper, the Madam of Ceremonies at the Crossbones Vigil to Honour the Outcast, for a special tour of this fascinating garden of remembrance sharing stories of history, hypocrisy, poverty, riches, activism, spirituality and transformation!
Very Short Tours, only one hour, starting Over There (outside the Gates) and concluding Over ‘Ere (inside the Garden).
The tour is running on May 25th and June 1st from 12-1pm and June 8th and 15th from 5-6pm. Click here for more information and to book your free ticket.
Dust off your dancing shoes, prepare to try a new sport or craft, give your prize-winning pooch a brush and be part of Bankside Open Spaces Festival – Bankside’s biggest FREE community celebration and street party!
On Saturday 10 June, Bankside Open Spaces Trust will be welcoming performers young and old, community groups, artists, sports coaches, musicians, singers, dancers, and pampered pooches of all sizes to the festival and they’d love you to join us too!
Line-up: Rob Corcoran, Ragtop Down, Sister Cookie, Ese & Vooduu People, Cosimo Matassa Project, The Brothers Ignatius, Brixton Chamber Orchestra and London International Gospel Choir. Plus, DJ sets from Rump Records, King Crowney, MGroove, Dales Hayes, Angie B and Brothers In House
From its Latina opening to a dance after party, the free and unticketed Bankside Open Spaces Festival will fill Bankside’s Union Street, Redcross Way and three small parks on Saturday 10 June with genre-busting music.
With four music and performance stages, the festival will have a vibe to suit all tastes and all ages.
Looking to dance in the street? Check out Alma Casa/EXT Radio’s DJ Stage down Redcross Way with six sets, live sax and drums, firedancers, bubble artists and two MCs all putting on a show from a huge glitterball.
Seeking a musical journey from roots to rock & roll or rocksteady via funk, rhythm ‘n’ blues and ska? The Main Stage is for you, opening with four Latina dance groups before segueing into six varied sets featuring the likes of Art Terry and the Black Bohemians, Ese & and The Voodoo people, Sister Cookie and returning headliners, Cosimo Matassa Project and The Brothers Ignatius. The Main Stage is a festival in its own right, and with street food and bars nearby, there’s no need to move, unless…
Hoping for a bit of chill? Why not bumble over to Red Cross Garden, take a seat among the verdant planting and enjoy a bit of alt-folk, Americana, delta blues or indie pop from a line-up of six London artists, interspersed with spoken word performances. Headliner Rob Corcoran returns to this bandstand stage – a favourite on the UK folk circuit. You can even enjoy the dog show, meet some bees, learn about early surgery from the Old Operating Theatre, grab a free massage or tackle a spot of yoga while you’re there.
And for the active and community minded, head over to Marlborough Sports Garden’s Community Stage for a mix of community choirs and performers, plus free dance workshops – surely this is the only festival where you can learn an Irish jig, salsa and tango all in one day? There’s a chance to kick back, too, with sets from the London International Gospel Choir and Brixton Chamber Orchestra in-between activities.
Across the festival, local craft stalls and free activities and workshops will keep all ages busy and entertained. There’s a beach, free sports coaching and plenty of craft for the kids, plant stalls and a BIG plant giveaway for the green fingered, art workshops for the busy, bars for the thirsty, street food for the foodies and a dog show for the barky! (The Little Dorrit Dog Show returns for its 7th year with pampered pooches judged by festival favourite and BBC Radio London’s dog expert Anna Webb).
Keep an eye on Bankside Open Spaces Trust’s social media channels for updates:
There’s loads to see and do all across Bankside – find out more here.
If you weren’t already planning on it, you might want to add the Hilton London Bankside to your Easter itinerary. Especially if you’re tired of just scrolling through cute animal TikToks and want to see the fluffy, feathered friends up close. On April 9 there will be a Pop-Up Bunny & Chick Petting Zoo taking place in the hotel lobby from 9am to 12pm. Guests will think they have fallen into a cute animal calendar as they meet and greet a host of bunnies and chicks, all under the watchful eye of five-star animal welfare company, Living Things. The Petting Zoo is free to attend for those staying at the hotel, brunching at Hilton London Bankside’s neighbourhood eatery, OXBO Bankside or dining at its Distillery Bar, The Distillery Bankside.
An easter chocolate hunt like no other aboard The Golden Hinde this Easter Sunday.
Explore all of the decks of the ship to find Golden Coins.
Sessions will be at 11:00 and 14:00.
Each session is for an hour and suitable for all ages. Bring your own baskets/bags to take home your loot.
Stay aboard after the treasure hunt and join the Pirate Takeover talks (Pirate Training will not run on this day).
*Golden Hinde facilities are not food allergen or gluten-free and Golden Hinde are not responsible for allergens. Customers with food allergies or other nutritional concerns are advised to notify the Golden Hinde management before booking tickets.
The Big Borough Market Easter Egg Hunt, which runs from 4th – 8th April (11am – 3pm), gives children a chance to explore the Market, learn about Borough’s history and produce, and win a very tasty prize.
Head to The Borough Market Store to pick up a quiz sheet, or download a printable version. You’ll find the answers written on eight giant eggs that have been hidden around the Market (there’s a map on the quiz sheet to help you find them). Fill in the answers and return the sheet to the Store – the first 50 correct entries handed in each day win a chocolate treat from So Chocolicious.
Bankside’s Golden Hinde are partnering with the amazing Sofar Sounds on the 10th May to bring an immersive live music experience to the ship. Sofar Sounds specialise in secret live music. Expect three local and diverse artists and a whole lot of magic. You won’t know who the artists are until they take to the mic. Enjoy amazing music in The Golden Hinde’s unique and historic space.
An easter chocolate hunt like no other aboard The Golden Hinde this Easter Sunday.
Explore all of the decks of the ship to find Golden Coins.
Each session is for an hour and is suitable for all ages. Bring your own baskets/bags to take home your loot.
Stay aboard after the treasure hunt and join our Pirate Takeover talks (Pirate Training will not run on this day).
*Our facilities are not food allergen or gluten-free and we are not responsible for allergens. Customers with food allergies or other nutritional concerns are advised to notify the management before booking tickets.
Head down to at Arch 33 at (Flat Iron Square’s sister venue) every Tuesday for “Never Going To Quiz You Up” ????
Real people, no cheats, facing off for the best quiz for miles. Test your knowledge and win big prizes and even bigger bragging rights!
Tons of miscellaneous knowledge rattling around your brain? Put it to good use and join us under the arch every Tuesday from 7 pm.
To highlight World Water Day and raise funds for WaterAid, Belu have teamed up with award winning Mancunian artist Venessa Scott, who will paint a large, colourful piece live in central London at Borough Yards. Venessa will paint from 20-22nd March and her work will be on display until 31st March. Come along and see the artwork come together.
There will be a donation point alongside the painting for people to discover more and donate to WaterAid. The piece will be auctioned following World Water Day, with all monies going to WaterAid. The auction will take place online from Thursday 23rd March at and close on Friday 31st March.
There will also be a chance to win a ‘Mix It Good’ pack of 10 Belu mixers and tonics, all vegan and gluten free, including their Lively Lemonade and Fiery Ginger Beer.
The Hilton Bankside have created a fabulous map with local illustrator Rosie Brooks, inviting people to discover the some of the ‘Inspirational women of Bankside’. You can pick up copy from their concierge throughout the month of March, or you can download a copy here.
Take your mum on a nice day out on the river on Thames Clippers and why not make it extra special with a glass of wine. On 18th and 19th March, enjoy 2 for 1 on 18.7cl bottles of wine at their onboard café bar.
Sneak inside one of London’s most unusual locations, after-hours, for a thrilling site-responsive experience.
This spring, Kirkaldy’s Testing Works – an historic, Grade II* former workshop and museum in the heart of Bankside – will open its doors for five exclusive, fun but slightly surreal pop-up performances over three days.
Set in the world’s first independent, commercial materials testing works, audiences will join in with a surprise extravaganza that’s been 200 years in the planning. Come and mingle with eccentric Victorian characters and test your mettle in an entertaining hour-long immersive drama.
What you will experience:
Celebrated Victorian engineer David Kirkaldy is having a surprise party – and you’re invited, but only if you come up to scratch! This immersive experience offers guests the opportunity to secretly join the celebrations. Once inside The Testing and Experimenting Works, challenge your strength and wiles against Kirkaldy’s scrutiny and the mighty million-pound Universal Testing machine… A proper Victorian knees-up lies in wait for those who pass the test.
Guests will weave their way through rooms in this unique and atmospheric former 19th century factory including Kirkaldy’s office, the factory workshop and the basement, all filled with music, soundscapes and the Scottish engineer’s original testing machines, including the 14.5m-long Universal Testing Machine he had designed, commissioned and patented in 1863.
‘Facts not Opinions’: Stretched to the limit has been created by theatre makers and performers Sammy Kissin and Al Barclay, as part of Blackfriars Stories commissioned by Southwark Council.
The show is inspired by the link between Blackfriars Bridge and Kirkaldy’s Testing Works and was originally conceived to mark the 200th anniversary of David Kirkaldy’s birth.
Sammy, who studied at LAMDA and Manchester University, said: “We really wanted to honour Kirkaldy’s world view that ‘Facts not Opinions’ matter. It is a celebration of the dynamism of the man, that idea of strength and how strength can be tested.”
Guildhall alumni Al added: “We have all been tested to destruction recently. We were interested in confronting this in a place designed to break the indestructible – and question, who are we?”
The present Blackfriars Bridge is the second bridge to bear that name; the first being deemed unsafe due to poor construction. The new bridge, built in 1869, employed the newly established Testing and Experimenting Works on Southwark Street to test its wrought iron framework and ensure its long-term viability.
Times
Thursday and Friday – 7pm, 8.30pm; Saturday – 3pm, 7pm and 8.30pm
Educational Programme
A free educational programme for more than 100 local secondary school pupils will run alongside the performances.
Renowned illustrator, set designer and creative director Emma Rios will be delivering a series of arts and engineering workshops for children, plus guided tours of the museum. Visitors will be taken back in time to the industrial revolution when building specimens from all over the world were tested to destruction in Kirkaldy’s workshop.
Emma, who is known for her paper sculpting installations and illustrations, has worked with clients ranging from Tatler and the Wall Street Journal to the V&A and Historic Royal Palaces, Liberty, Harrods, as well as fashion brands including Myla and Saloni.
About Kirkaldy’s Testing and Experimenting Works
A museum has been running at the site since 1984 run entirely by a team of volunteers. It is one of the few places in the world where you can get up close and hands on with working, historic machines – and yes, break something!
Kirkaldy opened the world’s first purpose-built independent testing site at 99 Southwark Street, London in 1874. He pioneered a real change in thinking – that all components had to be tested to a pre-existing standard, and facts were more important than opinions. The famous inscription above the door reads ‘Facts not Opinions’.
Today Kirkaldy’s advances in science and engineering are celebrated by the Institution for Civil Engineers and the Engineering Hall of Fame.
For further information visit:
Climbing is the perfect way for little ones to exercise body and mind. Let them climb our walls, not yours!
At The Font Borough, SE1’s very own rock climbing gym, we’ve scheduled a bumper week of Junior climbing sessions for the February Half Term. From Monday 13th Feb to Friday 17th Feb we’ll be running sessions every day for those aged between 8-18 years.
Visit our website for more details: the-font.co.uk/borough/junior-timetable
Bankside’s Golden Hinde presents a night of delectable debauchery, featuring first class performers from across the cabaret and performing arts industry.
Line up includes:
Matt Skully – boylesque and sideshow
ZeeZee Stardust – comedy burlesque and stand up
Welcome anti-valentine’s cocktail included in ticket price.
Happy unimaginative consumerist entirely arbitrary interpretation of romance day!
ADULTS ONLY 18+
Mulled drinks in all their forms were a popular choice to stay warm on the ice during the Frost Fairs. Join The Rake as they take you on an exploration of all things mulled with a guided tasting through three traditional, forgotten mulled drinks including Germanic Gluhkriek, Scandinavian Glugg and English Lambswool.
This event is free, but booking is required through link below.
This event is part of the Frost Fair which Better Bankside is running across December and January. Frost Fair is a homage to the area’s unique history, celebrating the characters and fascinating stories from past winters in the Southwark borough. There’s lots more happening across the area, find out more here.
Join The Bridge for their first ever supper club offering healthy plant based food that is good for you and the planet.
Guests will be joined by bestselling author and botanist Michael Holland. Michael wrote the best selling book I Ate Sunshine for Breakfast. If you are botanically curious then join us to hear from Michael as he shares his knowledge and passion in the incredible power of plants.
Cost: Pay-what-you-feel
One business that is glad the Thames is not frozen during our modern day Frost Fair is Uber Boat by Thames Clippers! Make travel time part of your London adventure and head to Bankside by boat this winter to experience all the fun of the Frost Fair. You’ll see the best views of the capital’s major sights as you set sail.
Look out for special Frost Fair films on board and get involved in their tasty Frost Fair offer:
Orange Gin Hot Chocolate – £5
Upgrade your hot chocolate on board this Frost Fair with Sipsmith’s Zesty Orange Gin. Resulting in a deliciously indulgent yet zesty warming sip.
Gingerbread biscuits – £1.50
This trip is part of the Frost Fair which Better Bankside is running across December and January. Frost Fair is a homage to the area’s unique history, celebrating the characters and fascinating stories from past winters in the Southwark borough. There’s lots more happening across the area, find out more here.
Frost Fairs were a time for feasting on traditional English fayre. In this half day workshop, you’ll bake four English classics. From the classic overnight white loaf to Bath buns and Devonshire splits to lardy cakes (trust us, they’re delicious), this course celebrates the very best of English baking.
This baking workshop is suitable for all levels of experience and runs for 3 hours.
Allergen information: this course uses wheat, dairy, egg and sulphites. One of the recipes in this class uses lard (pork) so is not vegetarian, kosher or halal. Unfortunately we aren’t able to tailor recipes for substitutions or alterations, as these can fundamentally change the composition and outcome of the recipes. For more information regarding our ingredients, please contact us before booking your course.
Nothing says Frost Fair like a mince pie and a warming nip of whiskey. If you’re also partial to this timeless combination, this is the perfect masterclass for you
We believe in simple quality ingredients at Bread Ahead, food should be enjoyed in its purest form. We apply this approach to everything we do, so we’re delighted to team up with fellow artisan producers Redbreast whiskey.
Join our expert bakers for a mince pie and whiskey masterclass. We’ll be demonstrating how we create our classic mince meat and ultimately our mince pies followed by the all important whiskey tasting.
Sat 10 December 2022, 7:00pm – 8:30pm
Sun 11 December 2022, 3:30pm – 5:00pm
In 1814, at the very last Frost Fair, it is reported that an elephant walked across the ice from north to south of the river. South African artist Jason Slabber has brought the ghost of this elephant back to the streets of Bankside using CGI and AI-driven illustration and animation.
The elephant will be projected into Dirty Lane at the new Borough Yards complex. Peek in to see it stomp its way over the ice through the Borough Yards gate under the Clink Street tunnel at anytime in the day, but from 18.14 – 18.30 (6.14pm – 6.30pm)every evening, the gates will be opened so you can see the elephant in all its glory and celebrate its moment in the 1814 Frost Fair.
No booking necessary, just turn up at 18.14 each day until 31 January.
Borough Market’s annual Evening of Cheese is back. Get ready for a cheese-themed shopping extravaganza led by our community of cheesemongers. Enjoy tastings, seek expert advice and put together a festive cheeseboard featuring the highest quality cheeses from Britain, Ireland, France, Italy, Spain, Switzerland and the Netherlands. Some of the market’s drinks traders will also be on hand to keep shoppers refreshed.
This event is part of the Frost Fair which Better Bankside is running across December and January. Frost Fair is a homage to the area’s unique history, celebrating the characters and fascinating stories from past winters in the Southwark borough. There’s lots more happening across the area, find out more here.
Every Monday our eccentric quiz master Matt Allen runs an eclectic general knowledge quiz. We’re taking this opportunity to introduce a series of quizzes with a food focus – makes sense bearing in mind we are on Borough Market!
The concept is to working with a different trader from Borough for each quiz. They will produce 2 rounds of questions, one on their product and one on the area then come from within the quiz. The aim to highlight the trader and what they do, we have some 125 traders who are true experts on their products and this is an opportunity to hear from them and to expand your knowledge. The first two are:
Monday 9 Jan – Turkish Deli and The Rake Epicurean Quiz – can you tell your ekmek from your köfte?
Monday 23 Jan – The Parma Ham and Mozzarella and The Rake Epicurean Quiz – is it Buffalo or Gruffalo?
Future quizzes will be with other traders and will be expanded into other connected areas such as vegan, vegetarian, sustainability and recycling etc.
This quiz is part of the Frost Fair which Better Bankside is running across December and January. Frost Fair is a homage to the area’s unique history, celebrating the characters and fascinating stories from past winters in the Southwark borough. There’s lots more happening across the area, find out more here.
Discover Tudor Christmas traditions aboard The Golden Hinde.Throughout December take part in our 12 Days of Tudor Christmas trail. Learn all about the modern Christmas celebrations that originated during the 16th century and experience the holidays like an Elizabethan.
Perfect for all ages, the Tudor trail is included in the admission price.
Feel festive and learn a new skill as you create a beautiful botanical wreath to make sure your door is looking it’s festive best.
The Bridge is hosting this relaxed and fun workshop, where you will be shown step-by-step how to make your own unique wreath with an expert. You’ll make a wreath using festive favourites such as fresh spruce and rosemary and add texture with pine cones, and dried fruits and seeds.
You’ll be provided with all of the materials needed, and every participant can create their own wreath that will decorate their home for the rest of December!
All profits from this event support The Bridge charity.
Register for your space now at www.thebridge-uk.org/store/wreath-making-workshop-at-borough-market
17 December 2022, 2pm – 4pm
Cost: £45 per person
This workshop is part of the Frost Fair which Better Bankside is running across December and January. Frost Fair is a homage to the area’s unique history, celebrating the characters and fascinating stories from past winters in the Southwark borough. There’s lots more happening across the area, find out more here.
Feel festive and learn a new skill as you create a beautiful botanical wreath to make sure your door is looking it’s festive best.
The Bridge is hosting this relaxed and fun workshop, where you will be shown step-by-step how to make your own unique wreath with an expert. You’ll make a wreath using festive favourites such as fresh spruce and rosemary and add texture with pine cones, and dried fruits and seeds.
You’ll be provided with all of the materials needed, and every participant can create their own wreath that will decorate their home for the rest of December!
All profits from this event support The Bridge charity.
Register for your space now at www.thebridge-uk.org/store/wreath-making-workshop-at-borough-market
17 December 2022, 11:00–13:00
Cost: £45 per person
This workshop is part of the Frost Fair which Better Bankside is running across December and January. Frost Fair is a homage to the area’s unique history, celebrating the characters and fascinating stories from past winters in the Southwark borough. There’s lots more happening across the area, find out more here.
Santa is glad the Thames is not frozen during our modern day Frost Fair! He’ll be on the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers on the 17th of December; joining the passengers on a magical journey up and down the Thames to see the magical sights of Christmastime London, and Bankside’s Frost Fair.
Hop on board on 17 December and meet Santa whilst enjoying London’s iconic landmarks along the river.
Santa will be sailing up and down the river between 12-5pm on the sailings listed here. You can board and disembark Sailing Santa services at any of the piers the service is scheduled to call at.
Look out for special Frost Fair films on board and get involved in their tasty Frost Fair offer:
Orange Gin Hot Chocolate – £5
Upgrade your hot chocolate on board this Frost Fair with Sipsmith’s Zesty Orange Gin. Resulting in a deliciously indulgent yet zesty warming sip.
Gingerbread biscuits – £1.50
This trip is part of the Frost Fair which Better Bankside is running across December and January. Frost Fair is a homage to the area’s unique history, celebrating the characters and fascinating stories from past winters in the Southwark borough. There’s lots more happening across the area, find out more here.