Explore the Treasures of the Ivory House Dockside Vaults
Discover London's maritime history at the Ivory House Dockside Vaults, a unique museum nestled in the stunning St Katharine Docks.
A brief summary to Ivory house dockside vaults
- Unit K, Ivory House, St Katharine Docks, E Smithfield, London, E1W 1AT, GB
The Ivory House Dockside Vaults, located in the picturesque St Katharine Docks, serve as a remarkable portal into London's maritime history. This charming museum is set within a beautifully restored Victorian warehouse, where the remnants of the past seamlessly blend with modern exhibits. Visitors can wander through the vaults, which once housed valuable goods from around the world, and now showcase a variety of maritime artifacts that tell the story of London's rich seafaring heritage. The atmosphere is both inviting and educational, making it a perfect stop for families, history buffs, and curious travelers alike. As you explore the vaults, take a moment to appreciate the stunning views of the docks, where boats bob gently in the water and the sounds of the city fade into the background. The museum not only highlights the historical significance of the docks but also emphasizes their role in contemporary London life. Engaging displays and informative panels provide insights into the evolution of trade and commerce in the area, as well as the importance of maritime culture. In addition to the exhibits, the location is surrounded by a lively assortment of cafes and shops, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. After your visit, consider enjoying a meal or a coffee by the water, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere that St Katharine Docks has to offer. Overall, the Ivory House Dockside Vaults is more than just a museum; it is an integral part of London's maritime narrative, making it an essential visit for anyone exploring this dynamic city.
Local tips
- Check the opening hours in advance, as they may vary seasonally.
- Combine your visit with a scenic stroll around St Katharine Docks for a full day of exploration.
- Don't miss the chance to try the local seafood dishes at nearby restaurants after your museum visit.
Getting There
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Underground
Start your journey by taking the London Underground. If you're near a central station, board the District Line or Circle Line train heading towards Tower Hill. Alight at Tower Hill station. From there, follow the signs to exit towards St. Katharine Docks. Once you exit the station, you will find yourself on Tower Hill. Walk down the hill towards the Tower of London. Continue walking past the Tower of London and follow the road as it curves left onto St. Katharine's Way. Continue along this road until you see the entrance to St. Katharine Docks on your right.
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Walking
Once you enter St. Katharine Docks, keep walking straight until you reach the dock area. Look for the signs directing you to Ivory House. The docks are scenic, so take your time to enjoy the view. As you approach Ivory House, you will see several restaurants and shops. The entrance to the dockside vaults is located at Unit K, which is on the left side of the dock area. You will recognize the building by its distinctive architecture.
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Bus
If you prefer to take a bus, you can catch bus number 15, 42, or 78 towards Tower Hill. Alight at the stop named 'Tower Hill'. From there, follow the same directions as the Underground option: walk towards the Tower of London, continue onto St. Katharine's Way, and proceed to St. Katharine Docks.
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Riverboat
For a more picturesque route, consider taking a riverboat service along the Thames. You can board a boat from any of the central piers such as Westminster Pier or Embankment Pier, heading towards Tower Pier. Once you arrive at Tower Pier, exit the boat and follow the road towards Tower Hill. Then, continue as mentioned in the Underground option to reach St. Katharine Docks.
Attractions Nearby to Ivory house dockside vaults
- The Dickens Inn
- St. Katharine Docks Drawbridge & Locks
- St Katharine Docks Marina
- Girl with a Dolphin
- Tower of London - Martin Tower
- Pool of London
- Roman Wall of Londinium
- Bronze 24-pounder Cannon
- Lanthorn Tower
- St John's Chapel
- Tower of London
- Tower Hill
- Tower Bridge Piazza
- Tower Wharf
- TRINITY SQ EC3
Landmarks nearby to Ivory house dockside vaults
- Ornamental Canal
- Billingsgate Roman House & Baths
- 30 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin)
- St Mary’s, Whitechapel (The White Chapel)
- Travelodge London Central Liverpool Street
- The Captain Kidd
- Monument to the Great Fire of London
- Church of Saint Magnus-the-Martyr
- King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)
- The Shard
- The London Bridge Experience & London Tombs
- Northumbria University - London
- Christ Church Spitalfields
- Liverpool Street
- Execution Dock