Private Walking Tour - Trade and Empire; History of Canary Wharf and the Docklands

 

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.


Redeem information
Voucher type: Printed and e-Voucher
Printed voucher or E-voucher. Print and bring the voucher or show the voucher on your mobile device to enjoy the activity.

Location
Start point:
Reuters Plaza
Please ensure you arrive at the meeting point at least 10 minutes prior to the tour start time.

End point: Close to public transport and taxi links.

Schedule
Duration: 2 Hours

Guide options
Guide type: Guide
Tips type: Optional

Requirements
Please wear comfortable walking shoes.