The Oxo Tower: From Beef Cubes to Bohemian Bliss
Ah, London. A city steeped in history, brimming with culture, and...obsessed with a good cuppa. So, what better way to fuel your sightseeing adventures than with a spot of afternoon tea overlooking the River Thames? Enter the Oxo Tower, a quirky landmark that's more than meets the eye (or should we say, stomach).
From Humble Beginnings to Hipster Haven: A Brief History of the Oxo Tower
The Oxo story starts not with fancy flats or artisan crafts, but with beef. Yes, beef! Back in the 1920s, the Liebig Extract of Meat Company (makers of the oh-so-recognizable OXO beef cube) purchased a riverside plot. They tore down most of the existing building but kept the prime real estate – river frontage – and hey presto! The Oxo Tower was born.
Now, there was a bit of a snag. Back then, London had a pesky rule against skyline advertising. But those clever chaps at Liebig had a cunning plan. They incorporated the OXO cube design into the tower's windows – a subtle (or not so subtle) bit of branding that became an iconic landmark.
Fast forward a few decades, and the beefy connection faded away. The Oxo Tower Wharf, as it's now known, transformed into a haven for creatives. Artists, designers, and makers of all sorts set up shop, filling the space with a unique blend of studios, galleries, and shops.
What Can You Do at the Oxo Tower Wharf?
Shop Till You Drop (But Hopefully Not Literally): Forget your run-of-the-mill high-street stores. Here, you'll find one-of-a-kind pieces from independent artisans – think handcrafted jewelry, quirky prints, and clothing that lets you express your inner artist (without looking like you raided a costume shop).
Get Your Art Fix: From contemporary exhibitions at the gallery@oxo to quirky barges transformed into floating studios (Bargehouse, anyone?), there's always something to inspire your inner art critic (or unleash your creativity in a workshop).
Dine with a View (and Maybe a Side of History): Fancy a slap-up meal with a panoramic vista of the Thames? Head to the Oxo Tower Restaurant, where you can indulge in modern British cuisine while perched on the very spot where the OXO cube legacy began.
Take a Break for Breathtaking Views (and Maybe a Selfie or Two): Feeling peckish? Grab a coffee and pastry from one of the many cafes and soak up the riverside vibes. And don't forget to snap a pic with the iconic Oxo Tower as your backdrop – it's practically mandatory (plus, your social media followers will thank you).
Pro Tip: Feeling energetic? The Oxo Tower Wharf is a great starting point for exploring the South Bank. Take a stroll along the Thames path, check out nearby attractions like the Tate Modern or Shakespeare's Globe, and create your own London adventure.
FAQ: Oxo Tower Edition
How to Get to the Oxo Tower Wharf?
Easy! Take the tube to Blackfriars or Southwark stations, and it's a short walk from there. Several buses also stop nearby.
How Much Does it Cost to Enter the Oxo Tower Wharf?
Free entry! You can wander around the building, explore the shops and galleries, and enjoy the riverside atmosphere at your leisure.
How Much Does it Cost to Go Up the Oxo Tower?
There isn't a public viewing platform at the top of the tower itself (those fancy flats are private residences after all). But the restaurant on the top floor boasts stunning views – just make sure to book a table in advance, especially if you're craving a window seat.
How Much Does Parking Cost at the Oxo Tower Wharf?
There's no on-site parking at the Oxo Tower Wharf, but there are several public car parks nearby.
Is the Oxo Tower Wharf Dog-Friendly?
Well-behaved pups are welcome in most of the outdoor areas, but some individual shops and cafes may have their own policies – always best to check before bringing your furry friend along.
