London Arch, formerly known as London Bridge, is a limestone formation standing on a rock platform off the Port Campbell National Park coast, west of Port Campbell on the road toward Peterborough. It was once a double-span natural bridge joined to the mainland. In January 1990 the inner span fell into the sea, leaving the outer arch standing alone and stranding two visitors who were later rescued by helicopter. The arch is a clear lesson in how fast this coast changes, and it is one of the best places to see the process at work: waves undercut the soft limestone, caves become arches, arches become stacks and stacks eventually fall. Viewing platforms sit a short walk from the car park, and entry is free.
What to do
Park, walk to the viewing platforms and look at the arch, the rock platform and the surrounding cliffs. The stop is quick, and many visitors spend 20 to 30 minutes. It is one of several easy stops west of Port Campbell, along with The Grotto and the Bay of Islands further on, so it works well as the first stop of the day if you are driving east to the Twelve Apostles.
Safety and rules
Parks Victoria warns of snakes, rough surf and unstable cliffs. Stay behind the fences, never walk out beyond the barriers and do not try to reach the rock platform. Dogs, drones without a permit, fires, camping and generators are not allowed. All-terrain and beach wheelchairs are available through Parks Victoria, and assistance dogs are welcome though national park entry requirements apply. Check the park's changed conditions page before you go, and keep your distance from sick or dead wildlife.
Planning
Arrive in the morning for softer light and fewer buses, or at the end of the day when the cliffs turn golden. It is one of the stops most day tours include, so it can be busy in the middle of the day. If you are staying in Port Campbell, it is a short drive and a good sunset alternative to the Twelve Apostles, which now requires a timed booking.
What to expect
The experience
A short walk from the car park to viewing platforms overlooking a natural arch on a rock platform.
Best time
Go in the morning or at the end of the day for softer light and fewer tour buses.
How long
Allow 20 to 30 minutes.
Tips
Stay behind the fences, watch for snakes in warm weather and keep dogs and drones away unless you hold a permit.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Visitors who want a quick, easy look at a famous formation and a lesson in coastal erosion.
- Families
- Short and easy, though children must stay behind the barriers and away from the cliff edge.
- Couples
- A good late afternoon stop on the way back to Port Campbell.
- Pair with
- Pair it with The Grotto, Loch Ard Gorge and the Twelve Apostles.
- Time needed
- About half an hour.
Good questions
Why is it called London Arch if it was London Bridge?+
It was a double-span bridge until the inner span collapsed in January 1990. The remaining outer span is now generally called London Arch.
Is it free to visit?+
Yes. Entry to the viewing area in Port Campbell National Park is free.
Can I walk out to the arch?+
No. Viewing is from the platforms, and the rock platform and cliffs are unstable and dangerous.
Where is London Arch?+
It is west of Port Campbell on the road toward Peterborough, on the opposite side of town from the Twelve Apostles.
Are dogs allowed?+
No. Dogs and drones without a permit are not allowed, though assistance dogs are welcome subject to national park entry requirements.
