!#8# Property In London: Around Amazing Southbank

!±8± Property In London: Around Amazing Southbank

London is sometimes said to be like a series of distinctive 'urban villages', and it follows that looking for London property often starts with the question of which one you'd like to live in. Estate agents will famously tell you they all have their own distinctive character: Southbank is probably one of the most famous. The area is renowned as the proud home of some of the UK's most popular cultural attractions.

Southbank is served by the Northern and Jubilee line tube with stations at Waterloo, London Bridge, Borough and Southwark, plus plenty of buses. Homes in and around Southbank vary; property in Borough can be some of the best in London. There are stunning views, balconies and roof terraces, and plenty of space and light but you will need to look with the right estate agents. As to why people move to Southbank, the list of attractions really is unrivalled. A glance at just five of the top draws and you will understand how they feel:

1. The London Eye

Built to celebrate the Millennium, the London Eye is now a celebrated landmark on the London skyline. Capsules gently lift visitors high into the sky, for the most breathtaking panoramic views across the city. Private parties can enjoy their own capsule, including the romantic Cupid's Capsule complete with pink champagne.

2. The Tate Modern

Having opened as little ago as 2000, it is now the standard bearer for London's contemporary art scene. The building is of awesome proportions, sited within the reformed former Bankside Power Station. Five floors take the visitor through works by Francis Bacon, Andy Wahol, Pablo Picasso, Roy Lichenstein, Martin Creed and more. There are also temporary exhibitions

3. The National Theatre

Overlooking the river, the NT is home to some of the most famous UK classic and contemporary productions, including the smash hit 'War Horse. The NT is actually three theatres, one of which the Olivier has a stage that can be loaded with up to eight different sets for any one performance. Don't forget to also check out the free live music events and exhibitions.

4. Shakespeare's Globe Theatre

A fully functional semi-open theatre painstakingly reproduced from the original Elizabethan Globe where Shakespeare's plays were staged. This incredible theatre stages regular productions under its authentically crafted thatched roof. There is open air standing room or covered seating for bad weather.

5. The BFI Imax

This shrine to cinematography houses three separate cinemas, a multi media space, exhibition space plus a superb restaurant. The BFI is home to both the National Film and Television Archive and Library. Its cinemas play vintage, indie and world cinema and there are film festivals running at intervals throughout the year.

As well as property in Borough, another area to consider is Rotherhithe, just round the river bend. Rotherhithe property tends to be prized for the calmer local atmosphere, remembering the Southbank is a hotspot for tourists. The prices can be lower there than for homes at the epicentre of all the action. Nonetheless, from Canada Water station you have a tube journey of less than ten minutes straight to Waterloo.