Find the perfect stay near Westminster Bridge

Westminster Bridge stands as one of the most recognisable river crossings in London, offering an open-air gallery of the city's most distinguished architecture. Strolling across its distinctive green arches allows for an up-close look at the Palace of Westminster and the towering Elizabeth Tower, which houses the Great Bell. It is a fantastic spot to feel the pulse of the capital while watching the red double-decker buses pass by against the backdrop of the River Thames.

This emerald-green structure crosses the River Thames, offering a unique perspective of the city skyline. It is a busy thoroughfare that connects the south bank to the heart of the political district, making it a perfect spot for a stroll between major landmarks.

Planning your visit and getting around

Walking across the bridge is free of charge and open 24 hours a day, so you can choose between a morning walk or a late-night view of the city lights. Since it is a main road, it can get very crowded during peak commuting times and on weekends. To avoid the largest groups, try visiting before 9:00 or after 20:00. If you are looking for a guided experience, many walking tours pass through here, often lasting around 2 hours as they cover the surrounding historic sites.

The path is wide and flat, providing easy access for those with prams or wheelchairs. Be mindful that while the bridge itself has no entry fee, nearby attractions like the clock tower or the cathedral usually require a paid ticket. It is always a good idea to check the official site for the most up-to-date information regarding nearby road closures or special event timings.

What to look for in the design

Westminster Bridge is famous for its distinct green colour, which was chosen to match the leather seats in the House of Commons. If you look down the river toward the next bridge, you will notice that one is painted red to match the House of Lords. The structure features intricate Gothic details that complement the nearby Palace of Westminster, making it a favourite spot for photographers.

From the midpoint of the 250 m long span, you can see the London Eye on one side and the floral gardens of the South Bank on the other. It is arguably the best place to capture a photo of Big Ben without any buildings blocking your view. Look out for the Victorian ironwork and the lamp posts that line the footway, which add to the historic feel of the crossing.

A bit of history and background

The current bridge opened in 1862, replacing an earlier stone version that had started to crumble. It is the oldest surviving bridge in central London that carries road traffic across the Thames. Because the river flows quite fast here, the engineers had to design the seven arches to be particularly sturdy while still looking elegant.

The bridge has survived heavy use and historical events for over 160 years, standing as a silent witness to the growth of the capital. It was even designated as a Grade II listed structure, ensuring its architectural features are protected for the future. As you walk across, you are literally stepping on a piece of Victorian engineering that has linked the two sides of the city for generations.

Finding your way around Westminster Bridge is straightforward, as it sits right in the heart of the capital. You will find plenty of places to stay within a short walk of the river, making it a great base for your trip.

Where to stay nearby

If you want to be right in the thick of things, look for accommodation in South Bank or Westminster. South Bank is perfect for families because it is packed with theatres, street performers, and casual dining spots, all within a 5-minute walk of the bridge. For those after a more traditional feel, the Westminster side offers grander buildings and is ideal if you want to be close to government landmarks. You can find everything from high-end suites in 5-star hotels to more practical stays. Staying in Waterloo is also a smart move for budget-conscious travellers, as it is only 10 minutes away on foot and has excellent links to the rest of the city.

Getting to the bridge

You can reach the bridge easily by taking the Underground to Westminster Station, which is located right at the northern end and serves the District, Circle, and Jubilee lines. If you are coming from further away, Waterloo Station is just 0.5 miles away and handles major overground trains as well as the Bakerloo and Northern lines. For a more scenic arrival, hop on a Thames Clippers river bus to Westminster Pier, which is less than 200 feet from the bridge steps.

It is simple to find the perfect hotel near Westminster Bridge with Opodo. You can easily compare hotels that actually match your needs and spot the best deals in just a few clicks. Whether you want to stay 500 yards from the Thames or find a hotel with a view of Big Ben, the right choice is waiting for you. Start your London adventure today by picking a place that fits your style. Enjoy your trip and book your hotel with us now to get the best value for your stay.