Canary Wharf is an area of London which is often less explored by tourists, but there’s plenty here to enjoy regardless of your interests or the length of your stay. Known as a busy centre of business and for its skyscraper-lined skyline, here’s our top picks of things to see in and around this region of the city…
Crossrail Place Roof Gardens
A feast for the eyes, the Canary Wharf rooftop gardens are the perfect spot to commune with nature in this part of London and, when the weather’s right, enjoy a live performance in the sunshine. With a huge range of events and workshops, this stunning garden seeks to represent the entire community and connect with audiences through performance and cultural pursuits. Drawing on the area’s history as a trading hub, many of the plants in the garden are native to the areas once visited by the West India Dock Company who frequented it over 200 years ago.
Museum of London Docklands
Canary Wharf’s history is explored in this impressive museum, detailing the area’s development from a Roman settlement right through to the modern complex it is today. Ten galleries explore the story of the UK’s capital from a commercial, trade and migration perspective over many centuries. In addition to these permanent displays, the museum hosts a range of exciting displays and exhibitions which will be of interest to many fascinated by this area. Housed in a 200-year-old warehouse, this is a great way to spend a few hours while staying at the Park Grand London Hyde Park.
Enjoy some Local Art
While it might come as a surprise to some, Canary Wharf is home to the UK’s largest collection of public art, and while staying at your Hyde Park Hotel you’ll be ideally placed to explore many of them for yourself. Downloading an art map means you’ll have a much better shot at finding some of the very best pieces.
Billingsgate Market
Though no longer the trading port it once was, there is still a great deal of food trading happening in and around the area of Canary Wharf. You’ll find much of this takes place at Billingsgate Market, where over 25,000 tonnes of fish and fish products are sold every single year. There’s 98 stands and two cafes for everything a fish lover could ever dream of, and daily arrivals of fresh produce from both the British coast and overseas markets. Whether you’re a devoted foodie or simply interested to get a glimpse at a thriving trade area, this is a great addition to your travels in Canary Wharf during your trip to Park Grand London Hyde Park.
Canary Wharf Ice Rink
A great find for enjoying a tried and tested winter pursuit, the Canary Wharf Ice Rink returns each autumn to provide London’s only skate path and what is often described as the best ice rink in the whole city.
