Borough Market is one of London’s most iconic destinations for food lovers—but the surrounding area offers much more than just great eats. Whether you’re planning a day out with friends, looking for something unique to do after lunch, or simply exploring what Southwark has to offer, there’s a range of exciting attractions within walking distance.
Here are the top 5 activities to do around Borough Market, including a high-energy quiz experience that’s fast becoming one of the most talked-about nights out in London.
1. Quiz Boxing Southwark
Just a short walk from Borough Market, Quiz Boxing Southwark is a one-of-a-kind experience combining the drama of a boxing match with the thrill of a live game show. Players enter individual quiz pods in a purpose-built arena, answering rapid-fire questions in timed rounds while competing for a place on the leaderboard.
This isn’t your typical trivia night. With an energetic host, immersive lighting, sound effects, and a buzzing crowd, Quiz Boxing delivers a competitive social experience unlike anything else in London. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, organising a team night out, or just looking for something completely different, it’s a must-try activity in the Borough area.
2. Clink Prison Museum
Step back into Southwark’s grittier past with a visit to the Clink Prison Museum, located just minutes from Borough Market. Built on the original site of one of England’s oldest prisons, this interactive museum offers a darkly fascinating glimpse into medieval justice, crime, and punishment. It’s a quirky and memorable stop for history enthusiasts and curious travellers alike.
3. Southwark Cathedral
Nestled beside the market, Southwark Cathedral offers a peaceful escape from the crowds. The building dates back over 1,000 years and is filled with beautiful architecture, stained glass, and historic tombs. Entry is free, though donations are welcomed, and it’s an ideal place for a reflective moment or a quiet wander through one of London’s lesser-known religious landmarks.
4. The Old Operating Theatre Museum
Hidden in the attic of a church near London Bridge, the Old Operating Theatre is one of the most unusual museums in the city. It features the oldest surviving surgical theatre in Europe, dating from the early 1800s. Expect a curious and slightly eerie look into Victorian medicine, complete with antique surgical tools and original wooden benches. It’s a perfect daytime activity for those who enjoy the stranger side of history.
5. Tate Modern
Just a riverside stroll away from Borough Market, the Tate Modern is one of the world’s leading contemporary art galleries. Housed in a converted power station, the space itself is as striking as the exhibitions it contains. From large-scale installations and experimental video art to works by Picasso, Rothko, and Hockney, it offers something for casual visitors and art lovers alike. Entry is free for the permanent collection, making it a perfect cultural stop on your Southwark itinerary.
Explore more than just the food
Borough Market is the starting point for a day rich in history, culture, and entertainment. Whether you’re diving into the underground past at a museum, taking in cutting-edge art at the Tate Modern, or stepping into the high-stakes arena at Quiz Boxing Southwark, there’s something for everyone just steps from the market stalls.
