London Museum Docklands: Gateway to 400 Years of Maritime History
Explore 400 years of London’s docklands history in a stunning riverside warehouse with interactive exhibits and family-friendly galleries.
Located in a historic Grade I-listed warehouse at West India Quay, London Museum Docklands offers a fascinating journey through 400 years of the city's river, port, and people. Free to enter, the museum explores the evolution of London’s docks, the transatlantic slave and sugar trade, wartime resilience, and the cultural heritage of the Docklands area. Interactive exhibits, family-friendly galleries, and special exhibitions like 'Secrets of the Thames' make it a captivating destination for all ages.
A brief summary to London Museum Docklands
- No 1, West India Quay, Hertsmere Rd, London, E14 4AL, GB
- +442070019844
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3.5 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Pre-book tickets online for popular special exhibitions and the Mudlarks Children’s Gallery to secure your preferred time slot.
- Allow at least 2–3 hours to explore the main galleries and additional exhibitions thoroughly.
- Visit on weekday mornings for fewer crowds and a more tranquil experience.
- Check the museum’s website for up-to-date opening hours and any temporary closures or special events.
- Use public transport like the DLR to West India Quay station for the easiest access; parking near the museum is limited.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Lockers
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to West India Quay station, a 3-minute walk from the museum. Alternatively, Westferry and Canary Wharf stations are within a 7-minute walk. The journey from central London typically takes 15-25 minutes. No ticket purchase is required for museum entry.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve the area, including 135, 277, D3, D7, D8, N277, and N550. Bus travel times vary from 20 to 40 minutes depending on your starting point and traffic conditions. Buses stop close to the museum, providing convenient access.
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River Bus
Use the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers service to Canary Wharf Pier, an 8-minute walk from the museum. This scenic option offers travel times of 30-45 minutes from central London river piers. Tickets cost approximately £6-£8 one way.
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Car and Parking
Car access to the museum entrance is restricted; however, public parking is available nearby on Hertsmere Road with a 10% discount using the code LDMGuest2025 when booking via the Saba app or website. Parking fees range from £3 to £10 for short stays. Coach drop-off is behind the museum, but parking is not permitted.
London Museum Docklands location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about London Museum Docklands
Historic Heart of London’s Maritime Legacy
Nestled in a beautifully preserved Georgian sugar warehouse at West India Quay, the London Museum Docklands immerses visitors in the rich history of London’s river and port. This Grade I-listed building, once central to the thriving sugar and shipping trade, now serves as a gateway to understanding how the docks shaped the city’s growth and global significance. Through detailed exhibits, you can trace the story from early Roman settlements to the bustling Victorian Sailortown, witnessing how commerce and culture intertwined along the Thames.Stories of Trade, Migration, and Resilience
The museum does not shy away from complex histories, including the transatlantic slave trade’s impact on London’s development and the lives of those who worked the docks. Visitors learn about the port’s crucial role during the Blitz in World War II and how it adapted to modern times. The narratives of migration, labor struggles, and community resilience are woven throughout the galleries, offering a nuanced perspective on the Docklands’ social and economic transformations.Engaging Exhibitions and Family-Friendly Spaces
Interactive displays and hands-on activities make the museum accessible and enjoyable for visitors of all ages. The Mudlarks Children’s Gallery invites younger guests to dig, build, and explore London’s river history in a playful environment. Special exhibitions like 'Secrets of the Thames' showcase over 350 objects recovered by mudlarks—people who search the riverbanks for historical artifacts—connecting visitors with London’s hidden past through archaeology and art.A Riverside Setting with Modern Amenities
Situated just a short walk from Canary Wharf, the museum benefits from a vibrant dockside location surrounded by bars, restaurants, and leisure activities. The museum offers facilities such as lockers, a café, and a shop, enhancing visitor comfort. Accessibility is a priority, with lifts to all floors and accessible toilets, ensuring an inclusive experience. The entrance is on the quayside, emphasizing the museum’s connection to the river.Visiting Information and Practical Details
Open daily from 10am to 5pm, the museum welcomes visitors free of charge, though some special exhibitions and the Mudlarks gallery may require a small admission fee. It is recommended to allow at least two to three hours to fully explore the main galleries and additional exhibitions. The museum is easily accessible via public transport, with West India Quay DLR station just minutes away, and multiple bus routes and river bus services nearby.Living History and Ongoing Discoveries
The Museum of London Docklands continues to engage with the community and history enthusiasts through collaborations with mudlarks and archaeological projects. The ongoing exhibitions and events highlight the dynamic relationship between Londoners and their river, celebrating the city’s evolving identity and maritime heritage in a setting that blends history with contemporary culture.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Execution Dock
1.9 km
A haunting riverside landmark where London’s maritime law was enforced through centuries of public executions.
King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)
2.4 km
Historic Thames foreshore site where pirates and maritime criminals faced grim justice under Admiralty law for over 400 years.
The Captain Kidd
2.4 km
Historic riverside pub with authentic maritime charm, classic ales, and scenic Thames views in London’s Wapping district.
Greenwich Foot Tunnel North
2.5 km
Walk beneath the Thames through 200,000 white tiles in this 1902 engineering marvel.
Execution Dock House
2.6 km
Historic riverside site where pirates and maritime criminals met justice in London’s centuries-old Admiralty executions.
Anchor Iron Wharf
2.9 km
Historic riverside wharf in Greenwich marked by a large anchor sculpture, blending maritime heritage with stunning Thames views.
Bellot Memorial Greenwich
2.9 km
A solemn obelisk in Greenwich honoring Lieutenant Joseph René Bellot’s Arctic bravery and sacrifice during the Franklin rescue expeditions.
Trafalgar Tavern
2.9 km
Historic Greenwich riverside pub since 1837, famed for whitebait feasts, naval art, and Thames panoramas—perfect for pints, roasts, and celebrations.
Stairway to Heaven, Bethnal Green Memorial
3.1 km
A powerful inverted staircase memorial in Bethnal Green Gardens, honouring the 173 civilians who died in the 1943 tube shelter disaster, the worst civilian loss of life in Britain during WWII.
Maritime Greenwich a World Heritage Site
3.2 km
Explore Maritime Greenwich, where royal heritage, maritime history, and the birthplace of Greenwich Mean Time converge in a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site.
National Maritime Museum Gardens
3.2 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich maritime history at the National Maritime Museum Gardens in London's historic Greenwich.
St Mary’s, Whitechapel (The White Chapel)
3.2 km
Historic site of St Mary’s Whitechapel, the iconic White Chapel that shaped East London’s identity and now commemorated as Altab Ali Park.
Queen's House
3.3 km
Explore the architectural beauty and rich history of the Queen's House, a must-see museum and art gallery in Greenwich, London.
St Katharine Docks Marina
3.3 km
London's only central marina: historic waterfront elegance where maritime heritage meets modern leisure.
Tower Bridge
3.6 km
Experience the grandeur of Tower Bridge, a Victorian marvel combining stunning architecture and engineering, offering breathtaking views of London's skyline.
Unmissable attractions to see
West India Quay
0.1 km
Where London’s maritime heritage meets vibrant waterfront dining, culture, and luxury living in the heart of the Docklands.
Canary Wharf
0.2 km
A striking blend of towering skyscrapers, rich history, and vibrant urban life at London’s premier financial district on the Isle of Dogs.
St Anne's Church, Limehouse
0.6 km
Explore the historic St Anne's Church in Limehouse, a serene Anglican church rich in history and architectural beauty in the heart of London.
Billingsgate Market
0.8 km
Explore Billingsgate Market, London’s historic and largest inland fish market, bustling with fresh seafood and rich maritime heritage.
Ratcliff Beach
1.2 km
Discover Ratcliff Beach, a hidden pebble shore on the Thames with stunning Canary Wharf views and rich maritime history in East London.
Ragged School Museum
1.5 km
Explore Victorian East End life and the pioneering free education movement at London’s Ragged School Museum, housed in historic canal warehouses.
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
1.7 km
A historic Victorian cemetery transformed into a tranquil nature reserve and green sanctuary in East London’s heart.
Shadwell Basin
1.9 km
Historic London dock transformed into a vibrant waterside community hub for leisure, water sports, and scenic urban living.
Prospect of Whitby
1.9 km
Step into London’s oldest riverside pub, where centuries of maritime history, pirate tales, and royal visits blend with stunning Thames views.
The O2
1.9 km
London’s premier entertainment destination blending world-class concerts, sports, dining, and vibrant nightlife under one iconic dome.
Mudchute Park and Farm
2.0 km
Discover 32 acres of urban countryside, rare breeds, and family-friendly farm life in the heart of East London’s Isle of Dogs.
o2
2.1 km
Experience world-class concerts, sports, and entertainment at London's iconic O2 Arena, a vibrant hub on the Greenwich Peninsula.
Up at The O2
2.1 km
Climb the iconic roof of The O2 for an exhilarating 90-minute adventure with stunning 360° views over London’s skyline.
Brunel Museum
2.1 km
Discover the pioneering Thames Tunnel and Brunel family legacy in London’s historic Engine House museum.
Shadwell Basin
2.2 km
Historic London dock turned vibrant waterside community offering scenic walks, water sports, and rich maritime heritage.
Essential places to dine
The Sail Loft, Greenwich
2.8 km
Stylish riverside dining in Greenwich with panoramic Thames views, modern British cuisine, and versatile event spaces.
Midpoint Restaurant
2.9 km
Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dining with riverside views and warm hospitality in London’s vibrant SE10 district.
Goddards at Greenwich
3.1 km
Experience authentic British pie and mash at Goddards at Greenwich, a historic eatery serving traditional comfort food in a welcoming setting.
Sticks'n'Sushi Greenwich
3.1 km
Experience fresh sushi and Nordic-inspired grilled sticks in stylish Greenwich, where maritime history meets modern Japanese cuisine.
Sefa Restaurant
3.1 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Greenwich.
Pho Street
3.2 km
Authentic Vietnamese pho, banh mi, and bubble tea served in a lively Greenwich setting with fresh flavors and warm hospitality.
Bill's Greenwich Restaurant
3.2 km
A cozy British restaurant in Greenwich offering hearty dishes, friendly service, and a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere from breakfast to late dinner.
Da Terra Restaurant
3.4 km
Experience innovative two-Michelin-star Modern European cuisine with vibrant Brazilian influences in the heart of East London’s historic Bethnal Green.
Nomadic community
3.6 km
A colorful, community-driven urban garden near Brick Lane, blending street art, creativity, and green space in East London’s vibrant cultural scene.
The Prince of Greenwich Pub
3.6 km
A vibrant gastropub in Greenwich blending quirky museum charm, authentic Italian cuisine, and lively jazz in a historic London setting.
The Hill
3.7 km
A vibrant Mediterranean and Latin American fusion restaurant with a cozy garden setting in the heart of Greenwich.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
3.7 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
3.7 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
La Dame de Pic London
3.8 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Restaurant Story
3.8 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Painted hall gift shop
3.0 km
Souvenirs and stories from Greenwich's naval heart—tote bags, books, and treasures evoking the Painted Hall's timeless splendor.
Greenwich Gifts Candy Land
3.0 km
Dive into a candy wonderland on Greenwich Church Street, where British classics and global sweets make perfect edible souvenirs in London's historic heart.
Made in Greenwich
3.1 km
Discover Greenwich's handmade heart: a not-for-profit haven where local makers' treasures shine, fueling community creativity one unique gift at a time.
Rare Books & Curios
3.1 km
A compact Greenwich Market stall overflowing with rare and vintage books, maps and printed curios that reward slow, tactile browsing.
The Cutty Sark Gift Shop
3.1 km
Discover maritime magic and London keepsakes at this Greenwich gem, brimming with Cutty Sark-inspired treasures and souvenirs just steps from the historic clipper ship.
Dragonfly Lifestyle
3.1 km
A small Greenwich boutique blending mindful womenswear, handcrafted jewellery and wellbeing finds in a calm, curated shop environment.
Arc Angel Boutique London
3.1 km
Elegant womenswear samples, striking accessories, and quirky gifts await in Greenwich Market's stylish haven, where fashion meets historic charm.
Joli Vintage Living
3.1 km
Discover timeless threads and retro treasures at Joli Vintage Living, Greenwich's gem for sustainable, era-spanning style on charming Nelson Road.
The Junk Shop
3.4 km
Lose yourself in Greenwich's maze-like antique wonderland, where eclectic treasures, a cozy tearoom, and quirky finds await around every cluttered corner.
Backyard Market
3.6 km
Discover handmade treasures and vibrant street culture at Backyard Market, Brick Lane’s creative heart.
Fashion St
3.6 km
A historic East London street where Victorian architecture meets modern creativity, surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and vibrant community life.
The Brick Lane Vintage Market
3.6 km
Explore the UK’s largest underground vintage market, where fashion history meets East London creativity and every visit promises a unique find.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
3.7 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
Brick Lane Souvenirs
3.7 km
Discover affordable, stylish London souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Brick Lane’s vibrant cultural scene.
DPUS Designer Outlet
3.7 km
Authentic designer fashion outlet in Shoreditch’s historic Old Truman Brewery, blending luxury style with urban culture and unbeatable prices.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Eighteen Sky Bar
1.7 km
Elevate your evening with crafted cocktails and 360-degree skyline views from the 18th floor over Thames, Canary Wharf, and The O2.
All Bar One Greenwich
2.0 km
Elevate your O2 experience at this multi-floor haven of wines, cocktails, and event-night energy—perfect for pre-show feasts and lively toasts amid London's entertainment epicenter.
The Midnight Apothecary
2.1 km
Discover a magical rooftop bar blending botanical cocktails, fire pits, and historic tunnel tours atop London’s Brunel Museum.
Td 338 Bar
2.4 km
Warehouse wonderland with epic sound, lush terraces, and non-stop beats—London's hidden rave escape on Greenwich Peninsula.
The Gipsy Moth
3.0 km
Historic Greenwich pub with Cutty Sark views, hearty grub, beer garden bliss, and live music vibes—perfect for nautical nostalgia and relaxed revelry.
Mindful Mixology
3.0 km
A compact Greenwich cocktail bar focused on lower-sugar craft drinks, hands-on masterclasses and a calm riverside atmosphere.
Kings Arms
3.2 km
Classic Greenwich pub with hearty grub, real ales, dog-friendly beer garden, and riverside vibes—perfect for post-sightseeing pints.
Greenwich Town Social Club
3.2 km
Cozy Greenwich social hub for cheap drinks, karaoke nights, and neighborhood camaraderie on Blackwall Lane.
The Sun Tavern
3.3 km
Historic East End corner bar blending a vast Irish whiskey collection with lively live music and expertly crafted cocktails.
Satan's Whiskers
3.3 km
Discover East London's beloved cocktail bar where classic drinks meet hip-hop vibes and a quirky, intimate atmosphere.
Ye Olde Rose & Crown Greenwich
3.3 km
Traditional Greenwich pub pouring real ales and pub classics next to the theatre—perfect for families, dogs, and post-show pints in historic surrounds.
The Lost Hour
3.3 km
Greenwich's craft beer epicenter where sports, pub grub, and late-night vibes collide—lose yourself in the fun on High Road.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
3.4 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
The Bell
3.7 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
Discount Suit Company
3.7 km
Discover a hidden vintage cocktail bar beneath Spitalfields, blending bespoke drinks with a cozy speakeasy atmosphere in London’s historic tailoring district.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub
1.7 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
American Express Invites Lounge
2.0 km
A backstage‑inspired, Cardmember-only lounge at The O2 with distinct seating zones, crafted drinks and a complimentary welcome drink on event nights.
E1
2.6 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
LA Lounge
2.9 km
London's top Afrobeats nightclub in Docklands: ethnic sophistication, VIP vibes, cocktails, and late-night dances until 4am on weekends.
Oliver's Jazz Bar
3.3 km
Experience the soulful rhythms and vibrant atmosphere at Oliver's Jazz Bar, where great music meets delightful drinks in the heart of London.
The Venue
3.6 km
A vibrant multi-room nightclub in New Cross, London, blending diverse music, cutting-edge sound, and a welcoming atmosphere since 1989.
The Bunker
3.7 km
A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.
The Hatch Club
3.7 km
A late-night New Cross club with a roomy dancefloor, VIP sections and bass-forward DJ nights—built for parties and private events.
Club 701
4.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
The Hoxton Pony
4.4 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Basing House - Shoreditch
4.4 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
Trafik
4.5 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
The Steel Yard
4.6 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
XOYO LONDON
4.7 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
CQ LOUNGE
5.0 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
