Canary Wharf

Canary Wharf, in the heart of the Docklands is built on the site of the old West India Docks on the Isle of Dogs. From 1802 to 1980, the area was one of the busiest docks in the world, with goods imported from all over the world.

Today, although much of the industrial infrastructure has been removed, 110 acres of docks, managed by British Waterways London remain, providing a unique waterside setting for a thriving retail and business district offering a plethora of shops, restaurants, pubs and wine bars, as well as health care and leisure facilities and an extensive arts and events programme.

Located nearby is the Museum of London Docklands, which tells the fascinating story of the people, the port and the role the river Thames has had in shaping the history of London.

Situated on the banks of the River Thames at the mouth of the River Lea, Trinity Buoy Wharf houses London's only lighthouse designed in 1863 for the famous scientist Michael Faraday. It can easily be reached by DLR or by river.

This former buoy manufacturing site now houses shipping containers that have been inventively turned into studio space for 350 artists and creative businesses. It is fast becoming an exciting arts and creative industries quarter in the Docklands, playing host to art exhibitions and productions in the atmospheric spaces in the basement of the Electrician's Shop, the listed Chainstore Building or even outside on Trinity Buoy Wharf.

Getting to Canary Wharf - for a map and transport information
For a history of the development of Canary Wharf and Docklands, visit www.lddc-history.org.uk