Southwark

Southwark lies on the south bank of the Thames between South bank and Tower Bridges. Like the rest of the area it is now enjoying a new lease of life after major renovation. This wasn't always the way - once Southwark was a no-go area for respectable citizens. Lying outside the City of London it was not subject to the same laws and vice was prolific as far back as Roman times when it was a red light district.

Clink Street is the most interesting area - Clink Prison Museum is one for lovers of the macabre while on a fruitier note, Vinopolis does audio tours and tastings from the major wine regions of the world.

Further along the Thames, the HMS Belfast is a Second World War cruiser that can be explored; if you still have had your fill of the dark side of life then the London Dungeon is a gruesome and entertaining visit.

The best thing however about Southwark has to be sinking your teeth into fresh lunch from Borough Market. There are any number of stalls selling all kinds of food and drinks. The spicy chorizo is legendary.