Canary Wharf and Docklands

The sleek tower blocks of London's Canary Wharf dominate the city's skyline and include one of Britain's tallest buildings: One Canada Square.

The Canary Wharf and Docklands area was once the busiest port in the world, although you'll see few clues to its past as you walk around the area.

Even harder to imagine is that just 25 years ago, Canary Wharf was one of the most derelict areas of London.

Docklands: Industrial Heritage

The warehouses around Docklands' West India Quay are the best preserved in London. These days, they house a selection of bars and restaurants. The quay takes its name from the raw sugar that was imported from the West Indies.

During the 19th century, shipbuilding flourished on the Isle of Dogs, the most notable ship built there being Brunel's Great Eastern. The isle was once empty marshland and it is thought that Henry VIII used it to kennel his dogs in the 16th century.

Museum of London Docklands

The Museum of London Docklands occupies a Georgian warehouse on the banks of the West India Quay. It's a great place to take the kids and entry is free. Explore 12 galleries of artefacts, paintings, engravings and photographs charting the history of the area from the Romans right through to the present day. A special series of events and exhibitions runs throughout the year.

Mudchute Farm

Europe's largest urban farm is overlooked by Canary Wharf's skyscrapers. Mudchute Farm and Park is the perfect escape from the city. Here you could easily be in the British countryside rather than a stone's throw away from central London. Take a horse ride through the 12.5 hectares (31 acres) of open parkland or meet the sheep, pigs, ducks and geese at the farm. Take a picnic and you can even join the llamas for lunch! Entry is free.

Sensational Shopping at Canary Wharf

Shopaholics are well catered for in the three Canary Wharf shopping malls with a choice of more than 200 shops, bars and restaurants. Luxurious brands such as Tiffany & Co., Jo Malone and Montblanc sit side-by-side with high street names such as Topshop, Reiss, Whistles and Zara. There is also a selection of quintessentially British brands such as Aquascutum, Aspinal of London, and Hackett as well as smaller independent shops and designer boutiques.

Major Events in Canary Wharf & Docklands

On the waterfront at Royal Victoria Dock is ExCeL London. This huge exhibition and events centre is home to many of London's biggest shows, including the London International Boat Show.

Canary Wharf hosts loads of public events such as the London Ice Sculpting Festival, comedy nights, and movie screenings. Visit www.canarywharf.com for a list of what's on.

Eating and Drinking at Canary Wharf

If you fancy a bite to eat, check out Boisdale of Canary Wharf, the Scottish themed restaurant offers the finest beef, lamb, game and seafood. Live jazz, blues and soul is played six nights a week with fantastic views of Canary Wharf. For a more formal dinner Plateau Restaurant Bar & Grill, set in a prime location in Canada Place serves classic French cuisine with a contemporary twist. If you prefer Italian, head to Jamie Oliver's restaurant, Jamie's Italian in Churchill Place. The Park Pavilion is also home to four fantastic restaurants:

Download Canary Wharf: A Place for Everything [PDF 3MB] for more information about eating and drinking at Canary Wharf.

Hotels in Canary Wharf

Luxury hotels in Canary Wharf and Docklands include the Four Seasons Hotel London at Canary Riverside, which provides superb facilities and is home to stylish Quadrato Restaurant. Marriott West India Quay Hotel and Executive Apartments offers easy access to the local area and there is also the Hilton London Docklands Riverside Hotel, located right on the river.

Getting To Canary Wharf and Docklands

Catch the Jubilee Line to Canary Wharf or jump on the Docklands Light Railway to West India Quay, Canary Wharf, Heron Quays or Mudchute. See our travel section for more information.