It's one of the most famous areas of London – but how well do you know Waterloo?
You'll have walked the Southbank, perhaps watched a show at the Old Vic and grabbed a bite to eat along the Cut.
Yet the area has many wonderful supporting acts beyond the headliners.
With high-speed communication a part of everyday life, stumbling upon fresh and exciting locations to spend time in London is becoming an art in itself.
We Are Waterloo is encouraging Londoners to get out and make their own discoveries.
Here are five Waterloo attractions you mightn't have yet found.
Café Del Marsh
In Waterloo, destinations that appear ordinary, more often than not hold some of the best-kept secrets in London. This rule applies to Lower Marsh’s hidden gem, Café Del Marsh. With its ever-changing array of liquors, cakes, coffee and music, Café Del Marsh is a favourite amongst creatives, theatre goers and locals alike. The stand out attraction remains the café’s hidden garden area. Hand built by owner James Pears, the secluded area provides a perfect hideout for early spring cocktails and craft ales to while away those lazy afternoons.
Vaulty Towers
Lower Marsh Market’s constantly evolving array of cultural gems is a true mecca for those in search of a night off the beaten track. Vaulty Towers has it all, from the always-on Espresso Martini taps to the off the wall décor, courtesy of sister venue, The Vaults. The seemingly endless array of cabins and cubby holes provide no shortage of intriguing spaces to explore, and the mouth-menu covers every base from its four cheese Mac n Cheese all the way through to the Post Brexit Poutine.
Scooter Cafe
Appearing on the set of the third Bourne film and still a regular haunt for Hollywood actors such Ethan Hawke and Johnny Depp, Scooter Cafe remains the understated hangout of choice for those in the know Whether a Vespa aficionado or not, the café provides of mix of sultry French jazz throughout the day before turning into a bustling speakeasy by night. Perfect for a first date, Scooter Café is the ideal backdrop to lose yourself in conversation alongside some of SE1’s larger than life characters.
Marie’s Café
In search of a refreshing, no nonsense culinary experience? Look no further than Marie’s Café. Blurring the lines between traditional English caff and authentic Thai cuisine, Marie’s has become a Waterloo institution. Sue the host’s seemingly photographic memory for her guests' precise tastes keeps regulars returning week after week, and the restaurant’s bring your own booze policy is a tidy money saver ahead of the night out on Lower Marsh.
Camping and Army Surplus
On heading to The Cut, visitors will find the little known treasure that is Waterloo’s Camping and Army Surplus store. Almost invisible from the outside, the store is an Aladdin’s Cave for outdoors gear (if you can get inside) and its highly knowledgable owner is on hand to talk you through each and every item in great detail as you traverse the maze of aisles.
