I

f you’re going to explore London’s South Bank and Bankside, it makes sense to start early. And there’s something special about walking along the South Bank at dawn: watching as the emerging sun gutters gently in the Thames and bathes the Houses of Parliament in a warm half-light. And with only the occasional jogger, you’ll experience that rare treat of a peaceful London.

With the sun now up, it’s time to browse the riverside book and art stalls, picking up a bargain or even a first-edition by your favourite author. A caffeine fix and spot of people watching is next, enjoy a coffee from a pavement café and watch the myriad of characters pass by. There’s also Shakespeare’s Globe to admire as well as Borough Market and Southwark Cathedral.

No trip to this part of London is complete without a visit to the Tate Modern. With excellent exhibition spaces including the huge Turbine Hall, the former Bankside Power Station is the perfect space to admire works by Picasso, Matisse, Dalí, Rothko, Pollock, and Warhol - and all for free. Once you’ve taken in the best in modern art, take the Tate shuttle boat to Tate Britain on Millbank where there’s an impressive permanent collection of art dating back to the 1500s.

All that’s left to do is jump on board the London Eye and watch the city burn a gentle orange, as the sun sets on a perfect South Bank day.