Canary Wharf, London - a small boat in a large body of water
1 / 10

Canary Wharf London

4.6
·491k reviews·, United Kingdom

A modern financial hub transformed into a vibrant destination with unique waterside activities, stunning skyline views, and diverse dining.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Sunset views & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Canary Wharf, London - a small boat in a large body of water

Canary Wharf London

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Sunset views & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A modern financial hub transformed into a vibrant destination with unique waterside activities, stunning skyline views, and diverse dining.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Experience London from the water with unique boat tours and enjoy breathtaking city views from rooftop bars."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚢 Book Boat Tours Early

Skuna Boats are popular! Book your BBQ or fondue cruise in advance, especially for weekends.

🏙️ Explore Beyond CW

Take the DLR to Greenwich for history, parks, and markets. It's a highly recommended day trip.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Skuna Boats

Skuna Boats

Canary Wharf Docks

Enjoy a unique BBQ or fondue experience on a private boat, cruising through the heart of London's financial district.

Bokan Bar

Bokan Bar

Novotel Canary Wharf

Sip cocktails with breathtaking 360-degree views of London, especially magical at sunset.

The Cube

The Cube

Canary Wharf

Test your skills in a series of challenging games inspired by the TV show, perfect for competitive fun.

Eden Dock

Eden Dock

Canary Wharf

A waterside spot offering activities like Oru kayaking and potential swimming opportunities, ideal for summer fun.

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Waterways

Experience Canary Wharf from a unique perspective! Consider booking a Skuna Boat for a BBQ or fondue cruise along the docks. These popular activities often sell out, so book in advance, especially for weekend slots. TikTok+2

Beyond the Skyscrapers

While Canary Wharf offers modern attractions, many recommend venturing out for a richer cultural experience. The DLR provides easy access to historic Greenwich, offering museums, parks, and stunning views. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Sunset views & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere & boat tours
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer mornings
Why
Water sports & pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Well I never thought those words would come out of my mouth but here we are @Skuna Boats ⚓️ #london #londonactivities #thingstodoinlondon #skunaboats #londontiktok #visitlondon #londontown #canarywhar...
@tannazloves
539.6K likes • 6.2M views

🚢 Book Boat Tours Early

Skuna Boats are popular! Book your BBQ or fondue cruise in advance, especially for weekends. TikTok+1

🏙️ Explore Beyond CW

Take the DLR to Greenwich for history, parks, and markets. It's a highly recommended day trip. Reddit+1

Perfect date spot, girls day out, family day out spot in London Canary Wharf 📍 with @Skuna Boats ⚓️ @Pingfluence #pingfluence #skunaboats #iglooboat #prinvite
@alaniscooperx
387.3K likes • 3.9M views
Let’s go on a tour round Canary Wharf 🏙️✨🫶 • @canarywharflondon #georgeinlondon #canarywharflondon #canarywharf #londonguide #whattodoinlondon #thingstodoinlondon #londonreels
george_in_london
4.2K likes • 104.7K views

🍸 Sunset Cocktails

Bokan Bar offers stunning city views at sunset. Arrive early for the best spots. TikTok

🛶 Kayak Adventures

Try Oru kayaking at Eden Dock for a unique summer activity. Tickets sell out fast! TikTokInstagram

The next station is.. Canary Wharf 🖤 #london #london🇬🇧 #beautifuldestination #beautifulnight #londonatnight #nightphotography #londonnights #londonlife #londoncity #visitlondon #visituk #unitedkingdo...
travel_withben
15.8K likes • 263.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚢 Book Boat Tours Early

Skuna Boats are popular! Book your BBQ or fondue cruise in advance, especially for weekends. TikTok+1

🏙️ Explore Beyond CW

Take the DLR to Greenwich for history, parks, and markets. It's a highly recommended day trip. Reddit+1

🍸 Sunset Cocktails

Bokan Bar offers stunning city views at sunset. Arrive early for the best spots. TikTok

🛶 Kayak Adventures

Try Oru kayaking at Eden Dock for a unique summer activity. Tickets sell out fast! TikTokInstagram

🎲 Competitive Fun

Challenge friends at The Cube for an exciting, game-show-style experience. TikTok

🍽️ Diverse Dining Options

From modern Indian at Kricket to plant-based at Mallow, Canary Wharf has varied culinary choices. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Canary Wharf is praised for its modern architecture, vibrant waterfront activities like Skuna Boats, and excellent dining and cocktail options, particularly those with stunning city views. However, some find the area lacks the historical charm of other London districts and can feel a bit corporate during weekdays.

What People Like

Unique boat experiences
Stunning city views
Modern architecture

What People Dislike

Can feel corporate
Less historical charm

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Canary Wharf is well-connected by public transport. The Jubilee Line and Docklands Light Railway (DLR) serve the area directly. The Elizabeth Line also offers a fast route. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, Canary Wharf is a modern, pedestrian-friendly area with wide walkways and clear signage. The DLR stations are integrated into the development. Instagram

Absolutely! The DLR from Canary Wharf to Greenwich is quick and convenient, making it an easy day trip. Reddit+1

Yes, there are several multi-storey car parks available, but they can be expensive. Public transport is generally recommended. TikTok

Walking is ideal for exploring the immediate Canary Wharf area. For wider exploration, the DLR and Thames Clipper river bus are excellent options. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, it's highly recommended to book Skuna Boats well in advance, especially for weekend slots, as they are very popular. TikTok+1

Prices for The Cube can vary, but expect to pay around £30-£40 per person for a session. Booking online is advised. TikTok

No, Canary Wharf is a public area and there are no entry fees to walk around and enjoy the architecture and public spaces. Instagram

Tickets for Oru Kayaking at Eden Dock should be booked online in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly. TikTok

While specific attractions like The Cube or Skuna Boats have fees, simply exploring the modern architecture, waterfront, and public art installations is a free activity. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

For panoramic city views, Bokan Bar at the Novotel Canary Wharf is a top choice, especially at sunset. The waterfront paths also offer lovely vistas. TikTok

Canary Wharf offers group-friendly activities like Skuna Boats (BBQ/fondue), The Cube (games), and Clays (axe throwing), making it great for friends or corporate events. TikTok+1

Yes, Canary Wharf has several options for date nights, including romantic boat trips with Skuna Boats, cocktails at Bokan Bar, or dinner at one of its many restaurants. TikTok+1

Yes, there are opportunities for open-water swimming, particularly at Eden Dock, which offers a unique urban swimming experience during warmer months. Instagram

Canary Wharf has a modern, sleek, and bustling atmosphere, particularly during weekdays due to its financial district status. Weekends offer a more relaxed vibe with leisure activities. TikTokInstagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Canary Wharf boasts a diverse culinary scene. Popular choices include Kricket for modern Indian, Hawksmoor for steak, Roe for contemporary dining, and Mallow for creative plant-based dishes. Reddit

For brunch, consider Roe, Mallow (vegan options), or Feels Like June. Market Halls also offers a food court vibe with various choices. Reddit

SOMA is highly recommended for excellent cocktails. Bokan Bar offers stunning views alongside its drinks. TikTokReddit

Skuna Boats offer options for bringing your own food or purchasing BBQ essentials and M&S food packages. Fondue experiences include welcome drinks and snacks. TikTok+2

Yes, Royal China is a well-regarded option, and there's a smaller spot called Chinese Gourmet known for authentic Xian pulled noodles. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Canary Wharf truly shines at night with its illuminated skyscrapers and waterfront. The areas around the docks and bridges offer great perspectives. TikTokInstagram

You can capture striking architectural shots, dynamic cityscapes, reflections on the water, and vibrant street scenes, especially during golden hour or at night. TikTokInstagram

Yes, taking a Skuna Boat or a Thames Clipper river bus provides unique angles for photographing the modern architecture from the water. TikTokInstagram

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful light for architectural and cityscape photography. Nighttime provides a dramatic, illuminated scene. TikTok+1

Drone usage in London is subject to strict regulations. Always check current aviation authority rules and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone in this area. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Canary Wharf offers several family-friendly activities. Skuna Boats are a hit with all ages, providing a fun, enclosed space for a unique meal on the water. TikTok The Cube offers an engaging, game-based challenge that kids and teens will likely enjoy. TikTok For a change of pace, a short DLR ride to Greenwich provides access to the Maritime Museum and the vast Greenwich Park, offering plenty of space to run around. Reddit Consider packing snacks and drinks, as some activities can be pricey, and check opening times for specific attractions. TikTok

🥂 Couples and Date Nights

Canary Wharf is surprisingly romantic, especially after dark. A Skuna Boat experience, whether for a BBQ or fondue, offers an intimate and memorable setting. TikTok+1 Enjoy sunset cocktails with breathtaking views at Bokan Bar, which provides a sophisticated ambiance. TikTok For dinner, consider restaurants like Kricket for modern Indian or Roe for a contemporary dining experience. Reddit The illuminated skyline and waterfront walks also contribute to a charming evening out.

🚶 Solo Explorers

Canary Wharf is safe and easy to navigate for solo travelers. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, admiring the modern architecture. Instagram Consider a solo trip on a Skuna Boat for a unique perspective, or enjoy a quiet drink at Bokan Bar while taking in the city views. TikTok The area also offers opportunities for active pursuits like Oru kayaking at Eden Dock if you're looking for some personal adventure. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Experiencing Canary Wharf's Waterways

Canary Wharf's docklands are a central feature, offering unique recreational opportunities. Skuna Boats provide a memorable way to experience the area, with options for private BBQ or fondue cruises. These igloo-shaped boats are particularly popular for dates and group outings, offering a cozy and fun way to see the city from the water. TikTok+2 It's advisable to book these experiences well in advance, as they are a sought-after activity, especially during peak seasons. TikTok

Beyond private boat hire, the waters around Canary Wharf are also used for watersports. Eden Dock has become a hub for activities like Oru kayaking, offering a chance to engage with the water in a more active way. TikTokInstagram These summer activities are often ticketed and can sell out quickly, so early booking is recommended. The presence of these water-based attractions adds a dynamic and refreshing dimension to the urban landscape of Canary Wharf. TikTok

Beyond the Financial District: Culture and Leisure

While Canary Wharf is renowned as a financial hub, it also offers a growing array of leisure and cultural attractions. For those seeking entertainment, The Cube provides a thrilling, game-based experience inspired by the popular TV show, perfect for competitive groups. TikTok Nearby, venues like Clays (axe throwing) and Fairgame (arcade games) offer further active entertainment options. Reddit

However, many visitors and locals suggest that for a more traditional cultural experience, it's worth venturing slightly beyond Canary Wharf. The Docklands Museum offers insights into the area's maritime history, and a short DLR ride can take you to the historic Greenwich area. Reddit Greenwich boasts attractions like the Cutty Sark, the Royal Observatory, and beautiful parkland, providing a stark contrast to Canary Wharf's modern architecture. Reddit+1 This blend of modern leisure and accessible historical exploration makes Canary Wharf a versatile destination.

Dining and Nightlife in Canary Wharf

Canary Wharf's dining scene has evolved significantly, moving beyond corporate catering to offer a vibrant selection of restaurants and bars. For modern Indian cuisine, Kricket is a popular choice, while Hawksmoor is renowned for its steaks. Reddit If you're looking for plant-based options, Mallow offers creative and delicious dishes, and Feels Like June is another well-regarded spot for brunch. Reddit For a more casual experience, Market Halls provides a diverse food court atmosphere with numerous vendors. Reddit

When it comes to evening drinks, SOMA is frequently recommended for its excellent cocktails, offering a sophisticated atmosphere. Reddit For unparalleled views, Bokan Bar at the Novotel Canary Wharf provides stunning 360-degree panoramas of the London skyline, making it an ideal spot for sunset drinks. TikTok The area caters to various tastes, from fine dining to relaxed bars, ensuring options for different preferences and occasions. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2