Over recent years, the Isle of Dogs has blossomed into a thriving, diverse community, known for its excellent cafes, bars, restaurants and cultural venues. Located in East London, this is a vibrant, welcoming part of the city that continues to go from strength to strength, providing its residents with an excellent quality of life. Situated right on the waterfront, this is 21st-century London at its most charming and inclusive.
During the 18th century, the West India Docks were developed on the Isle of Dogs, and as a result of the people who came to live and work here, the area became increasingly sought-after. With a rich history of seafaring and trade, The Isle of Dogs may have started as a business hub, but over the course of time, it’s been transformed into a great place to call home.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at just some of what’s on offer here…
Museum of London Docklands
The Museum of London Docklands is a great resource, able to guide you through the earliest days of local fishing, which was so important to the area’s status as a shipping hub. It regularly features exhibitions about the importance of trade between the West Indies and London, and vividly depicts exactly how the docklands were affected by two world wars. They hold regular events, with party pioneers Hackney Showroom hosting evenings of live performances that bring the history of the area to life in the most compelling way. A fascinating slice of living history.
Despite being more than just a music venue, the 02 remains London’s premier destination for live acts, regularly showcasing big-name artists like Elton John, Ozzy Osbourne and Peter Gabriel. Consistently presenting the very best in international talent, it continues to set the bar and is the go-to venue for Londerers looking for live entertainment. With a range of other activities like trampolining, cinema and bowling, this is also a great day out for all the family. Meanwhile, climbing the 02 has become the stuff of legend. With 360-degree views across London, for those up for the challenge, it’s a unique experience that’s proving more and more popular with each passing year. Something everyone should try at least once!
Opposite the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, the Cutty Sark and the National Maritime Museum, Island Gardens is a quiet and beautiful waterside park. Also the entrance to the Greenwich Foot Tunnel is a local mainstay, somewhere to come and escape from the rigours of daily life. The views across the river are truly awe-inspiring, and there’s a cafe and seating area, ensuring visitors can really take it all in at their leisure. Once featured in Caneletto’s famous 18th-century painting, ‘A View of Greenwich from the River’, it’s an incredible scene, one of the best anywhere in London.
The Space Community Theatre is a spectacular, converted church that’s now one of the city’s most respected and beloved art venues, counting Sir Ian Mckellan as a patron. Live shows in summer are performed on the roof garden, and the quality of work has gained a deserved reputation as some of the finest anywhere in the capital. All their plays are filmed and can be seen online, so even if you can’t make it in person you can still enjoy the show from the comfort of your own home. Keeping theatre alive is what The Space is all about, and they’re well worth your time. Culturally significant, this is a great night out.
If you’re in line for fresh sea-bream, scallops or lobster, Billingsgate Fish Market is exactly where you want to be. Open between 4 am and 8 am from Tuesday to Saturday, this really is the finest seafood you’ll find anywhere, although you’ll have to move fast to catch it. With a trading floor of 98 stands and 30 shops, this centuries-old market has been providing the local community with produce that’s always of the highest possible standard. Covering a full thirteen acres, it’s the biggest fish market anywhere in the UK, and for those serious about their seafood, it’s fair to say that no one else comes close.
Mudchute Park and Farm is home to over one hundred types of animals, including cows, sheep, chickens, goats, rabbits and even lamas. Visitors to the farm can get up close and personal, engaging with the animals in the most personal way, under the close supervision of a helpful and dedicated team. Perfect for families and animal lovers everywhere, it’s somewhere that creates a space for visitors to get back to nature and enjoy a special day that’ll linger long in the memory. A rare and unique experience.
Properties
If you are interested in living in this area. Please check out these developments available for rent or to buy:
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International House, 1 St. Katharine's Way
London, E1W 1UN
