South Bank & Bankside

London's oldest food market, trading in some form since 1014 when the original London Bridge made this a natural trading point. The current wrought-iron and glass structures date from the 1850s. Over 100 stalls sell artisanal cheeses, bread, charcuterie, and street food from around the world. Neal's Yard Dairy ages some of Britain's finest cheeses in railway arches beneath the market. The market appeared as the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. It operates Wednesday through Saturday; Thursday through Saturday for the full experience.

Arrive before 10 AM on Saturday to avoid the worst crowds. The Brindisa stall serves the best chorizo roll in London — follow the queue.

A faithful reconstruction of the 1599 open-air playhouse where Shakespeare's company, the Lord Chamberlain's Men, performed his greatest works. The original burned down in 1613 when a cannon misfired during Henry VIII and set the thatched roof ablaze. American actor Sam Wanamaker spent 23 years campaigning to rebuild it; the new Globe opened in 1997, 200 meters from the original site. It seats 1,570 and uses no artificial lighting for performances. Standing 'groundling' tickets cost just five pounds — exactly as in Shakespeare's day (adjusted for inflation).

Groundling tickets sell out fast for popular shows but offer the most authentic experience — standing in the open yard, inches from the actors. Check the website for same-day availability.