While more and more of us head back into our offices and workplaces, we’ve really got to start making the most of the days that we change out of pyjamas and leave the house. Seriously, it’s time to capitalise on the perks of being back in the heart of London. Which is why we’ve partnered with South Western Railway to bring you a weekly guide of the best things to do, see and experience near Waterloo station.
Take a later train home and enjoy a group social with your friends and colleagues, discover more of London’s hidden gems and make the most of all the affordable art and culture in our lovely city. From fitness classes, to award-winning cocktails and £10 theatre tickets – we’ve got you covered when it comes to inspo!
Things to do with your mates
Want to do something social but also get in your daily movement? Why not work up a sweat with your friends at a 1Rebel Ride class? This is not your average spin class. With banging playlists, amazing lighting and sound systems to get you pumped, you and your mates can bond over the burn and the rush of post-workout endorphins.
1Rebel South Bank
Price: Varies
Location: 7 Upper Ground, London SE1 9LP
Distance from Waterloo Station: 12 min walk
Undiscovered places to explore
Fancy exploring a cultural hotspot you might not have been to before? This week, we’re recommending The Courtauld Gallery. Tucked away in the historic setting of Somerset House, this art gallery boasts a much-loved permanent collection of masterpieces ranging from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. You can admire iconic Impressionist masterpieces such as Manet’s A Bar at the Folies Bergère, or famous works of the German Renaissance like Adam and Eve by Lucas Cranach the Elder. And don’t forget that the gallery often has great exhibitions going on too – currently there’s one of Van Gogh’s self portraits!
The Courtauld Gallery
Price: £9 adult entry, free for under 18s and students
Location: Somerset House, Strand, London WC2R 0RN
Distance from Waterloo Station: 15 min walk
Something cheap to enjoy
Yes, we all know London can be an expensive city at times, but there are also plenty of incredible things to do on the cheap! For example, did you know that you can book £10 tickets to see plays at The Old Vic? With their preview scheme, at least half the tickets for the first five performances of in-person shows are priced at just £10 – sign up to their mailing list here to stay informed about releases.
The Old Vic Theatre
Price: From £10
Location: The Cut, London SE1 8NB
Distance from Waterloo Station: 3 min walk
An SWR reward to cash in
Did you know that you can get free access to exclusive offers and deals when you buy your train ticket with SWR. They’re unlocking amazing commuter perks across various venues in London (and beyond!) allowing you to cash in on great discounts, free drinks and more! Find out more here.
Each week we’re picking out one SWR Reward to help elevate your non-wfh days, and this time we’re bringing you a taste of Hawaii. Wander across Waterloo Bridge into Covent Garden and you can get 10% off your food at El’Takoy, 3 Henrietta Street. This restaurant takes inspiration from the Tiki bars of Hawaii and is great for small bites, tacos, poke bowls and tiki cocktails.
To help you keep your fingers firmly on the pulse of city living, South Western Railway’s winged friends, Sandy and Wes are on hand to provide their top recommendations. Sandy is a culture vulture with a love for the arts, theatre and lunching with the girls, while Wes loves clubs, pubs and going to gigs with his mates. But one thing they can both agree on is the importance of finding a good spot for a meal out with friends! They’ve joined forces to share their restaurant, café and bar suggestions for the week ahead, so you can spread your wings in style.
Wes and Sandy’s star of the week:
For experimental cocktails in a glamorous setting, visit Lyaness in the Sea Containers building. Created by award-winning bartender Ryan Chetiyawardana AKA Mr Lyan, this cocktail bar uses unusual ingredients to create delicious drinks. 20 Upper Ground, London SE1 9PD
