Hay's Galleria

London is always full of surprises! I've lived here for six years, and despite visiting the London Bridge area many, many times, I've never been to Hay's Galleria. Can you believe it?! When you accidentally stumble upon these places, streets you've walked by for years, but never decided to take this lane or that one, you feel as if London's revealing one of its many secrets to you.

Arriving at London Bridge Tube Station, take the exit that will lead you out onto Tooley Street. Cross the road over to Hay's Galleria. Look over your shoulder for a great view of The Shard.

The Galleria is named after Alexander Hay, who took ownership of the property in 1651, when it was a brewhouse.

In the 1850s, the property was transformed into a wharf by John Humphrey Jr. and William Cubitt, and became known as 'Hay's Wharf'. Eighty percent of the dry produce imported to the city passed through

Hay's Wharf. It was also one of the main delivery stops for ships bringing tea to London from India and China.

Hay's Wharf was rebuilt after 1861's Great Fire of Southwark, and redeveloped in the 1980s (following extensive bombing during the Second World War). Hay's Galleria opened in 1987, its distinctive glass roof designed by architect Arthur Timothy.

Taking centre stage in the Galleria is artist David Kemp's sixty foot sculpture, 'The Navigators'. A tribute to the wharf's maritime past, 'The Navigators' is a gothic, steampunk vision of moving parts, water spouts and fountains. A definite must-see!

Head through Hay's Galleria, towards the River Thames, and you'll be granted a brilliant view of HMS Belfast (click here for times and ticket prices to visit this historic ship). On your right, you'll see Tower Bridge rising out of the water, connecting you to the Tower of London on the opposite side of the river.

Hay's Galleria has an abundance of shops, craft stalls and restaurants. It's the perfect place to eat and take in some of London's most famous sights!

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