There are a variety of interesting artisan shops here as well as numerous places to eat and drink. Its riverside location makes it a very attractive place to spend the day, particularly when the weather is fine.

The whole area is a good example of the right way to do community development.

The development movement that sparked its creation dates back to 1977. In those days the area was a bleak place; faceless office buildings with no street life led to a shrinking population.

Workers commuted in and out of the area but spent no time or money in the community. Development plans were devised that would include the tallest skyscraper in London and over a million square feet of office space, but local residents banded together in a remarkable campaign to develop the area in a more community-friendly way.

The Coin Street Community Builders opened the wharf in 1988 in units that were once garages.

Storefronts were built onto the garages, giving them a perfect mix of retail and workshop space that attracts craftspeople and designers from all over. The goods offered range from jewellery and fashion accessories to home lighting and interior design.

Restaurants are plentiful here, you can choose from the casual Gourmet Pizza Company or try one of the 40 different varieties of crepes at the House of Crepes.

Sarni's is a Gabriel’s Wharf institution, serving delicious sandwiches on their homemade bread and rolls. They also sell homemade cakes and cappuccinos.

Pieminister is a remarkable shop here that sells some of the best and most unusual varieties of pies in the UK.

Visitors can also hire bicycles or sign on for a guided tour at the London Bicycle Tour Company location.

This area is a South Bank gem.

Address: 56 Upper Ground, South Bank, South Bank, SE1 9PP

Telephone: 020 7401 2255

Opening Times: Tuesday to Sunday 11:00 - 18:00, restaurant and bars open til late.

Photo courtesy: hha124l

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