History of Canary Wharf and the Docklands (Private Tour)

Highlights

  • Learn about biodiversity at Jubilee Park 

  • Learn about London's public transport system 

  • Visit the Museum of London Docklands 

  • Enjoy the sounds and smells of the Billingsgate Fish Market

  • Take in gorgeous views at Crossrail Place Roof Garden

Summary

Learn about the fascinating past of this London area which was the epicentre of trade for the largest empire in the history of mankind

Tour info

Duration
2 hours
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
English
Meeting Point

Reuters Plaza, London, England, E14 5AJ

123 Main St, Main St, Kings County, New York, 11217, United States

123 Main St, Main St, Kings County, New York, 11217, United States

Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

The Canary Wharf area has a rich story of development and innovation, which this tour unfolds for the visitor. From the initial ground-breaking development of the West India Docks, through the area’s development as an enterprise zone to today’s harmonious mix of enterprise, art and landscape.

* Commence your tour at **Reuters Plaza**, and learn about London's public transport system 
* Learn about biodiversity at **Jubilee Park** 
* Uncover **Blackwall Basin** - part of the docks complex, now reused for floating homes 
* Enjoy the sounds and smells of the **Billingsgate Fish Market** 
* Take in gorgeous views at **Crossrail Place Roof Garden**, used as a performance space 
* Learn about the docks and their importance at the Import Dock Warehouses 
* Visit the **Museum of London Docklands** to uncover this historical time of development 
* Recount stories of the WI Docks at the **Ledge Building and Dedication Plague** 
* Discover (and witness) development at the **Riverside by Canary Wharf Pier** 
* Conclude at **Cabot Place via Westberry Circus**, where a recent sculpture by Henry Moore stands

**History**

When they opened in 1802, the West India Docks was London’s first commercial docks complex. It revolutionised trade and ushered in prosperity and growth. Much of this enterprise has survived and the tour takes in a number of important sights such as the great warehouse complex on the Import Dock – in its day the world’s biggest public development – and the Blackwall Basin, now a haven for floating homes.

After the Docks closed in 1980, the area became the flagship Enterprise Zone for London’s new Docklands scene. The tour includes aspects of that development, such as the area’s first new apartment block, a City market which moved here and is still flourishing, and the light railway that enabled the area to grow.

**Development**

Today the area presents many aspects of modern development. It is a place of enterprise still, yet in the modern mould. New building projects are set within areas which maintain the ecological balance through the use of greenery, encouraging wildlife. Art is encouraged too, with important sculptures by a variety of artists a prominent feature of the development.

What’s included?

  • Learn about the fascinating past of this London area

  • Plenty of time to take photos of your favourite places

  • A friendly, professional guide with first-hand knowledge of the area

  • Food and drink, although your guide will be happy to recommend snacks along the way

  • Hotel pick up, we do recommend a centrally located start point

Things to know

Before you book

  • Please bring comfortable walking shoes

  • Kids under 4 are free

Before you go

  • Please ensure you arrive at the meeting point at least 10 minutes prior to the tour start time

  • Please bring waterproof clothing in case it rains

  • Please bring plenty of water

Covid Policy

  • Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
  • Social distancing enforced throughout experience
  • Gear/equipment sanitized between use
  • Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
  • Guides required to regularly wash hands

Cancellation Policy

    Up to 24 hours before the beginning of the activity: full refund Less than 24 hours before the beginning of the activity or no-show: no refund

About operator:

Travel Curious, based in Shoreditch/London, researches, creates and owns immersive, cultural tours and experiences in cities throughout the world. We provide our tours and experiences as a service to the travel industry and are privileged to name some of the biggest global brands as our partners