Museum of London - Docklands
The Museum of London has a large collection that explores the City of London from prehistoric times all the way to the present.
London, a city steeped in history and culture, offers travelers a myriad of attractions to explore. One hidden gem that often escapes the mainstream tourist radar is the Museum of London in Docklands. Nestled in the heart of Canary Wharf, this museum is a treasure trove of maritime history, providing a fascinating journey through London's past as a bustling port city.
The Museum of London in Docklands is conveniently situated in the historic West India Quay, just a stone's throw away from Canary Wharf. This location is not only rich in history but also easily accessible, making it an excellent addition to your London itinerary.
The Musuem's Location
The Museum of London in Docklands is conveniently situated in the historic West India Quay, just a stone's throw away from Canary Wharf. This location is not only rich in history but also easily accessible, making it an excellent addition to your London itinerary.
The Building
Housed in a Grade I-listed warehouse, the museum itself is a testament to London's maritime heritage. The building, with its exposed brickwork and industrial charm, provides the perfect backdrop for the extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits within.
Exploring the Galleries
The museum is divided into several galleries, each offering a unique perspective on London's maritime history. Here are some highlights:
Sailortown: Step back in time to the 19th century and experience life in Sailortown. This immersive gallery recreates the sights and sounds of a bustling dockside community, complete with narrow streets, shops, and taverns. It's a captivating glimpse into the daily lives of sailors and dock workers.
London, Sugar & Slavery: Delve into London's involvement in the transatlantic slave trade and the impact it had on the city's development. This thought-provoking exhibit explores the historical connections between London, the Caribbean, and West Africa, shedding light on a dark chapter in the city's past.
Warehouse of the World: Uncover the story of London as a global trading hub. The exhibit showcases the vast array of goods that passed through the city's docks, emphasizing London's role as the "Warehouse of the World." From tea to textiles, the collection highlights the diverse and interconnected nature of global trade.
Mudlarks: For a family-friendly experience, the Mudlarks gallery is a hands-on, interactive space designed for younger visitors. Children can explore the mudlarking tradition along the River Thames, uncovering hidden treasures and learning about the history of this unique practice.
Events and Activities
The Museum of London in Docklands regularly hosts events, workshops, and guided tours, providing visitors with opportunities to engage more deeply with the exhibits. Check the museum's schedule to see if there are any special events or activities during your visit.
The Museum of London is open daily except for December 24th-26th and it has free admission, making it a great place to visit for anyone travelling on a budget.
For more information about the Museum of London as well as exhibitions and hours visit their official website.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoMuseum of London - Docklands Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Address: No 1, West India Quay, Hertsmere Rd, London E14 4AL, UK
Phone: 020 7001 9844
Official Website: Museum of London - Docklands
Museum of London - Docklands Reviews
Rated out of 5
Wow! Highly recommend. It was getting 3 stars simply for being free. It earned 5 stars for balancing interactive and informative exhibits. Loved how there was plenty of exhibits for the children, yet those didn't distract from the historical information. Loved learning history of the docklands and its role in building and sustaining London.
C. K. - a month ago
This is a very surprising museum. They've managed to make a topic that I wasn't that interested in into such a lovely experience.
The museum is really well presented, with life-sized replicas of entire rooms and even corridors made to look like a walk through the old streets of London. They have so many interesting items, from ship models and dioramas to swords, barrels, and paintings.
The museum has toilets, a cafe, a gift shop and it's in a great location, in the middle of Canary wharf and just a short walk away from the station.
Reff - a month ago
I went as it has a brilliant soft play center which is really creative, clean and well organised but you must book in advance. The cafe is very toddler friendly with lots of high chairs and room for buggies.
After I went to look around the museum and it’s just amazing, both educational, child friendly and very atmospheric.
Lots of different rooms and recreations of streets and shops. I’m going back next month for a second visit as there was so much to see.
Most amazing of all the museum is free and the soft play a bargain.
It’s worth noting it’s very easy to get to by DLR and surrounded by some descent cafes and restaurants so it’s all too easy to make a day of it.
Alison Medd - a month ago
A very interesting museum, with free access! It follows the history of London in correlation with the periods of development and decay of the docks. The most interesting part seemed to me to be the one in which an area from a neighborhood of dock dwellers is reproduced. Also, the section dedicated to the slave trade is very interesting. You need about 90 minutes to visit it, maybe even more. The museum also has a nice cafe.
Paul Ciprian - 3 months ago
Situated on West India Docks in a Grade 1 listed Georgian warehouse, the museum provides a fascinating insight into the history of the river Thames. At its peak the Docklands saw 1,000 ships per week coming in and out of the port which covered an expanse of 35 miles and 50 acres of warehouse space. Entry is free, although a donation is encouraged. Well worth visiting.
Maria Lysenko (My Bucket List At 60) - a month ago
Directions
| Tube Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Jubilee | Canary Wharf | 12 Minutes |
How to get to Museum of London - Docklands by Tube
From Canary Wharf Exit via Jubilee Plaza, turn right (north) through the plaza and up the stairs, turn left onto S. Colonnade, turn right into Cabot Square, continue north past the fountain and across the North Dock Footbridge, turn left and follow the West India Quay Promenade to the museum entrance at the western end.
Taking LOndon River Services to Canary Wharf is also a great option for getting to the Museum of London in Docklands.
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Photo Gallery
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Main Museum of London which has now been closed cc licensed photo by markhillary -
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Photo Credit: Ewan-M - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ben Sutherland - cc license via Flickr -
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Photo Credit: Ben Sutherland - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ben Sutherland - cc license via Flickr
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