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
Visited over the Easter Bank Holiday; this was my first visit to the museum, and I was genuinely amazed at how much information is crammed into the space! It is definitely worth a visit. Donations of £5 are recommended; the boxes are slotted around the museum; tickets for any exhibitions can be bought when you arrive at the venue. They have a lovely little gift shop to the left as you enter; the place is kid and disabled friendly even having braille. Their are toilets on every floor and 2 very spacious lifts. Their is also a very nice little cafe for a drink & snack. You can pay with cash & card.
Sarah H. - a week ago
FREE! Lots of local history here thats presented in an honest and accessible way. Plenty to look at over the 3 floors. You'd need a whole day to take it in.
Kids enjoyed it too, with a 'rat hunt' for us to do, among other rooms for free craft and performances, throw in loads of helpful staff and it was a morning well spent here.
The surrounding area is stunning too, with a pub next door, and beautiful friendly church opposite on a barge. Both worth visiting too!
James Tredgett - in the last week
We visited the museum on Sunday evening. The fashion exhibition is excellent and very informative. Good place to visit if you like history. Oh and I like the way they show hovis bakery when they started it. Hovis is my absolute favourite for bread and stuff.
Disha Bhayani - a week ago
Excellent museum in a 200 year old warehouse about ten minutes walk from Canary Wharf Underground Station.
The museum explores the long history of London as a port through stories of trade, migration and commerce. Among other things, the museum's exhibits cover: how the warehouses operated; the slave and sugar trade; merchants, sailors and pirates; the Docklands during the second world war; and the ups and downs of the docks culminating in their closure and their redevelopment.
The museum has a good cafe and caters for all ages with an interactive space for children up to 8.
Very friendly and helpful staff. Well worth a visit.
John Carr (Corinne and John) - 2 months ago
A wonderful museum a short walk away from West India Quays. An enlightening experience on how Canary Wharf became Canada Wharf, with an interesting exhibition on Sugar, Slavery and Abolition in Britain on the top floor. There are areas of the museum that have been modelled to look like old london, which was a nice experience, and it felt nice to understand the wider historical context of London. Definitely recommend
Perhaps - 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 -
Photo Credit: Robert.Pittman - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ben Sutherland - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ewan-M - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Matt From London - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ben Sutherland - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Matt From London - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ewan-M - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ben Sutherland - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: mattbuck4950 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: mattbuck4950 - cc license via Flickr
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