One of London's most vibrant and illuminated riverside destinations, the fairy light-adorned Between The Bridges party zone on the South Bank, is poised for a triumphant return this spring and summer. This comes after organisers executed a dramatic U-turn, rescinding an earlier announcement that the popular venue would be cancelled for the 2026 season.
A Welcome Reversal for London's Largest Outdoor Drinking Area
Billed as the capital's largest outdoor drinking area, Between The Bridges is a sprawling riverside space featuring an array of food stalls, bars, and dance areas. It operates from Tuesday through Saturday, providing a central hub for eating, drinking, and socialising along the Thames.
In a surprising shift, organisers have confirmed the venue will reopen on April 30, 2026, with operations expected to continue through the summer and into December. This reversal follows a December announcement citing a planned hiatus due to renovations in the adjacent Jubilee Gardens.
Celebratory Return with Free Drinks and New Events
To mark its fortunate comeback, the venue will offer 500 free drinks to the first guests through the gates on opening night. The season will launch with an opening party on Thursday, April 30, featuring DJ sets from Guilty Pleasures and Flexin'.
Event director Marcus Weedon expressed the team's delight, stating, "When we announced our closure, that reflected the position at the time. Since then, ongoing discussions have led to a revised outcome. We're delighted that Between The Bridges will be reopening and continuing to operate on the South Bank. The level of support from customers has meant a lot to the team, and we're excited for what's ahead."
Diverse Lineup and Returning Favourites
The 2026 season promises a rich calendar of entertainment, building on its established format:
- Live Music and DJs: The lineup includes the return of the tongue-in-cheek brass band Old Dirty Brasstards, offering unique brass interpretations of indie pop and Abba classics.
- World Cup Screenings: A summer-long takeover will feature matches broadcast across three massive screens, catering to football fans.
- Weekly Parties: The popular Guilty Pleasures party returns every Saturday night, offering free entry and dancefloors filled with 90s and 00s pop and R&B hits.
- Ticketed Events: The venue will host several special events, including an Oktoberfest celebration.
- SoLo Craft Fair: Returning on the first Sunday of each month, this fair showcases over 60 London-based makers and designers, featuring fashion, art, jewellery, and plants.
Between The Bridges has become a conspicuous and beloved feature of the South Bank landscape, drawing both locals and tourists to its festive, illuminated setting. Its unexpected return is set to reinvigorate London's social scene along the river, offering a dedicated space for celebration throughout the warmer months and beyond.
