Southwark is a district and administrative centre within the London Borough of Southwark. Located 2.4km (1.5 mi) to the east of Charing Cross, it is one of the oldest parts of central London to be developed that is on the southern bank of the River Thames.
The name Southwark itself derives from the Old English name "Sudweca" meaning "southern defensive work", in reference to its location to the south of the City of London. Since ancient times the Borough of Southwark has existed. Since then, the area has taken different names including the Metropolitan Borough of Southwark, and presently, the London Borough of Southwark. As a result, the name The Borough itself is often used to denote Southwark.
