The London Bridges Challenge (Walking Tour Map, Cafe & Pub Recommendations & Top Tips!)
Ready to take on one of London’s most unique walking adventures?
If you’ve followed me for any amount of time, you’ll know I love a long walk in London. But recently, I decided to try something a little more challenging…
The London Bridges Challenge.
Spanning 33 bridges across the Thames and clocking in at over 30 miles (48.2km), this isn’t your average stroll in Notting Hill.
It’s a full-day walking challenge, and the ultimate way to experience the capital from riverside to riverside.
Here’s everything you need to know to take on the London Bridges Challenge yourself — from a Londoner who’s done it!
About the Author
Hi, I’m Candace — a London-based travel writer and content creator who traded the East Coast of the US for the charm of the UK back in 2016. London’s been my home ever since.
On this blog, you’ll find hundreds of thoughtfully crafted London, UK, Europe and Worldwide travel guides alongside lots of insider London tips, honest hotel and restaurant reviews and advice for content creators.
P.S. – For more trip inspiration, travel videos, and behind-the-scenes adventures, be sure to follow along (and say hello, if you fancy) on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube.
🗞️📺As featured on the BBC, USA Today & Recipe.TV.
What is the London Bridges Challenge?
The London Bridges Challenge is a self-led walking challenge where you cross every single bridge over the Thames in Greater London — 33 in total — in one go.
The route covers both footbridges and road bridges, taking you from the leafy outskirts of Richmond all the way to Tower Bridge (or vice versa).
It’s not an official challenge (yet) — but it’s become a bit of a cult adventure among London locals and walkers in the know. And now, it’s your turn!
How Long Does it Take to Do the London Bridges Challenge?
It depends on your pace and how many stops you take — but for most people, it’ll take between 10–12 hours.
We started early (around 7am) and finished just as the sun was setting.
It’s definitely a full-day affair, so plan accordingly and bring water, headphones and snacks! Preferably in summer 🌞
London Bridges Challenge Map & Bridge List
The route is pretty much a straight line east-to-west (or vice versa), but we found it surprisingly hard to find a comprehensive map online. So we made our own.
To help you stay on track, here’s a full list of the bridges to tick off. I recommend copying and pasting this into your Notes app before you set off:
1. Hampton Court Bridge
2. Kingston Bridge
3. Kingston Railway Bridge
4. Teddington Lock Footbridge (counts as 2 with lock)
5. Richmond Bridge
6. Richmond Railway Bridge
7. Twickenham Bridge
8. Richmond Lock & Weir / Footbridge
9. Kew Bridge
10. Kew Railway Bridge
11. Chiswick Bridge
12. Barnes Railway Bridge
13. Hammersmith Bridge
14. Putney Bridge
15. Fulham Railway Bridge
16. Wandsworth Bridge
17. Battersea Railway Bridge
18. Battersea Bridge
19. Albert Bridge
20. Chelsea Bridge
21. Grosvenor Bridge
22. Vauxhall Bridge
23. Lambeth Bridge
24. Westminster Bridge
25. Hungerford & Golden Jubilee Bridge (counts as 2)
26. Waterloo Bridge
27. Blackfriars Bridge
28. Blackfriars Railway Bridge
29. Millenium Bridge
30. Southwark Bridge
31. Cannon Street Railway Bridge
32. London Bridge
33. Tower Bridge
Cafe & Pub Recommendations on London Bridges Challenge Route
Despite the misconception, you can (and should) stop during the London Bridges Challenge.
You’ll need to refuel, recharge, and yes — use the loo!
While there are plenty of Prets and Gail’s scattered throughout, here are a few standout spots you can time with your walk that offer a bit more charm (and riverside vibes to match).
Eileen’s at Buccleuch Gardens Café
Near Richmond Lock Footbridge
📍 Buccleuch Gardens, Richmond TW10 7HF
Start your challenge strong with a hot drink and brekkie at this leafy café tucked inside Richmond’s riverside gardens. Outdoor seating + early opening hours = ideal kick-off point.
The White Hart Pub
Next to Barnes Railway Bridge
📍 The Terrace, Riverside, Barnes SW13 0NR
This pub is a dreamy mid-route stop. Think traditional interiors, classic pub food, and sweeping views of the Thames from their outdoor terrace. Bonus: solid toilet situation.
The Clubhouse Café & Bar
Next to Putney Bridge
📍 St Mary’s Church, Putney High St, London SW15 1SN
Perfect for a light lunch or a cheeky pint. Nestled right by the bridge, it’s a local gem with a relaxed vibe and a great stop before heading into central London.
The Dickens Inn
Near Tower Bridge (and final bridge stop if walking west to east)
📍 Marble Quay, St Katharine’s Way, London E1W 1UH
Celebrate finishing the challenge with a cold drink at this historic 18th-century pub. Hidden in the docks just past Tower Bridge, it’s the perfect end-of-walk reward.
FAQ: London Bridges Challenge
💭 What should I pack for the London Bridges Challenge?
- Water bottle (refillable fountains are dotted along the way)
- Snacks & a light lunch
- Headphones or a podcast playlist
- Portable charger
- Umbrella or light raincoat
- Plasters & blister pads (just in case!)
- A notebook or app to track bridges
💭 What should I wear?
- Comfy walking shoes (you’ll thank yourself later)
- Layers — London’s weather changes quickly
- Lightweight backpack
- Sunglasses + sunscreen (for sunny days!)
💭 How many steps is it?
We clocked in a little over 52,000 steps, so pace yourself!
💭 Is it tough?
It’s not a hike, but it’s definitely a challenge. The hardest part is endurance — you’ll want to stop after 20 bridges, but keep going, you’re nearly there!
💭 Can I do it in reverse?
Absolutely. You can start from Tower Bridge and walk west — the bridges still count!
💭 Is it safe to do alone?
Yes, especially if you stick to daylight hours. Just make sure someone knows your route and bring a portable phone charger.
💭 Can I take public transport between bridges?
Of course — but if you’re doing the full challenge, try to commit! That said… no shame in calling an Uber at the end 😅
So, Are You Ready to Do the London Bridges Challenge?
Whether you’re a local looking for a new London adventure or a visitor ready to really see the city, the London Bridges Challenge is one of the most unique walks you’ll ever do.
You’ll see riverside neighbourhoods, iconic sights, hidden gems — and walk away with the ultimate “I did it!” brag.
Let me know if you take it on — and don’t forget to tag me if you do!
Thanks for reading my London Bridges Challenge Guide. If you enjoyed it, let me know on Instagram!
CHECK OUT MORE LONDON & uk RECOMMENDATIONS:
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- The Best Things to Do in Richmond, London
- The Ultimate London Guide For First-Time Visitors
- The BEST Things to do in Cheddar Gorge (Walks, Attractions, Tickets, & More!)
Happy Londoning,
