Hugging the north bank of the River Thames, Tower Hamlets encompasses the historic riverfront area of the London Docklands and the modern development of Canary Wharf. It served as the main hub of London’s trade until the late 19th century and was recently redeveloped as a residential, business and leisure district.
Things to do in Docklands
Occupying a former sugar warehouse is the Museum of London Docklands, which explores the area’s long history of trade as London’s river port. In addition to maritime-themed artefacts and World War II relics, it houses an exhibit detailing the impact of the “Blitz” on the area. A highlight of any visit is strolling through the recreated Victorian streets of “Sailortown” with its traditional pubs and lodgings.
Magnificent views of Greenwich are on offer from the Island Gardens, which encompasses leafy walking trails on a bend in the River Thames. North is Mudchute Park & Farm, a working city farm that hosts the annual Isle of Dogs Agricultural Show. You can get up close to rare British breeds of sheep and goats before enjoying home-cooked fare from the Mudchute Kitchen.
Located on the Isle of Dogs is Canary Wharf, a modern cluster of office buildings, residential apartments and restaurants. It was established on the site of once-derelict warehouses and is home to the 235-metre-high skyscraper of One Canada Square - one of the tallest buildings in the United Kingdom. Luxury brands and global eateries occupy the Canary Wharf Shopping Centre.
Getting around Docklands
Tower Hamlets is around 15 minutes’ drive from the centre of London and just over an hour from London Heathrow Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Subway services connect to the Canary Wharf Underground station while both buses and trams travel throughout the neighbourhood.