Things to Do in Near Holiday Inn Express London - Southwark

If you care about food, or enjoy delicious flavours, be sure to head to Borough Market, London's renowned hot spot for fresh ingredients and edible creations. This lively market sells spices, meat and poultry, fruit and vegetables, plus handmade baked goods, cheeses and charcuterie. As you make your way through the crowds, you can try samples, speak with vendors and take home tasty treats.

About half-an-hour walk from the hotel is the Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a superb example of a medieval fortress amid the modern buildings of a fast-paced city. The oldest part of the fortress, the White Tower, was built by William the Conqueror in 1066. See the famed Crown Jewels, or take a tour with guides known as Beefeaters, who explain the tower's turbulent history.

Head to the Southbank Centre for an array of creative workshops, performances, restaurants and a good dose of culture. Whether you're interested in poetry, art, music or stories, you can learn more about yourself and the arts in fun and innovative ways. Plus, if you head to the top floor of the building, you can bring a lunch and enjoy spectacular views of the Thames and surrounding areas.

If you plan to travel extensively around London using public transport, it may be worthwhile to get an Oyster card in advance. You can buy and top up the card at a flat rate. There's a daily capped price, and every ride thereafter on that day is free. Rates depend on which transport zones you choose, since the city is divided into six. Card credit can be saved for later or refunded.

• London Eye
• Tate Modern
• Tower Bridge
• St Pauls Cathedral
• The Shard
• Borough Market