Take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Thames as it winds through the capital. Soak up the South Bank atmosphere, London's home of art, culture and unique architecture. Cross the bridges for circular walks with spectacular views.

The Riverside Walkway attracts visitors from all over the world and is also a valuable resource enjoyed by all who live or work in the area. It is also used as a venue for unusual and unique events - keep your eyes peeled for exciting pop-ups.

The Green Room is a contemporary restaurant, bar and garden developed by local social enterprise Coin Street Community Builders in collaboration with the National Theatre.

Serving delicious, ethically-sourced British diner food and roast dinners on Sundays, it’s a unique temporary architectural experiment which offers an airy, contemporary space featuring props and scenery recycled from National Theatre shows.

View here for more information and to book

If you're headed to Gillray's, bring an empty stomach and high expectations. Situated in full view of Parliament, the seat of British democratic administration, Gillray's fine food is as remarkable as its surroundings.

Everything about Gillray's is a seeming nod to British culture and heritage. Their meat is sourced from British farms. Their bar boasts not only fantastic staff but over 100 types of gin. Their service is of the highest quality in the British sense - subtle, yet polished. Even their decor is reflective of the old-world grandeur of the Houses of Parliament. During afternoon tea, a tray is neatly delivered to your table and drinks are filled (or refilled) in a smooth, near unnoticeable ballet of table service.

Their bar is open late and serves a mixture of classic and contemporary cocktails, a wide selection of beers, wines, and spirits.

Caffe Vergnano serves up the finest Italian coffee in a sophisticated cafe bar located opposite the Royal Festival Hall.

 The chain has a long history (since 1882) and a penchant for serving some of the best coffee available in London (possibly even the best according to some critics). 1882, while being a nod to the company's beginnings, is similar to the other coffee shops it runs in London, however this time it comes with a twist in the form of a fully-fledged restaurant serving the best in Italian cuisine on top of the usual offering, all within walking distance of the London Eye and National Theatre. 

Vergnano is busy during the weekends so it's advised to book ahead.

Kitchen is the National Theatre's all-day café - it's the perfect pit stop for lunch with friends, tea and cake or a pre-show light bite.

The contemporary cafe serves up a range of freshly cooked meals - with a menu that changes daily, but affordable examples include tuna provencale linguine and steak and ale pie.

Alternatively choose a baked treat from the giant cake table which you can't miss in the centre of the cafe. With it's location directly opposite the river, enjoy the large outdoor eating areas in warmer months.

Pret creates handmade natural food avoiding the obscure chemical, additives and preservatives common to so much of the 'prepared' and 'fast' food on the market. Pret operates a bit like a restaurant. They build kitchens in (or very near) every shop. They also offer their unsold food to charity at the end of each day rather than keeping it to sell the next day.

Enviably located just off the Southbank Centre, directly opposite the Royal Festival Hall main entrance, Pizza Express is close to major attractions like the London Eye and the Aquarium. It's extremely spacious but with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere – making the place ideal for every sort of occasion.