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West India Quay: Historic Docklands Meets Modern Leisure

Where London’s maritime heritage meets vibrant waterfront dining, culture, and luxury living in the heart of the Docklands.

4.5

West India Quay, located on Hertsmere Road in London’s E14 district, is a vibrant leisure quarter blending rich maritime history with contemporary urban life. Nestled beside the historic West India Docks and Canary Wharf, it offers waterfront dining, cultural attractions like the Museum of London Docklands, entertainment venues including a cinema, and luxury accommodations such as the Marriott Executive Apartments. This lively area is a hub for shopping, dining, and scenic riverside strolls with panoramic views of Canary Wharf.

A brief summary to West India Quay

  • Hertsmere Rd, London, E14 4AE, GB
  • +442075154741
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 4 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Monday 6 am-10:30 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-10:30 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-10:30 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-10:30 pm
  • Friday 6 am-12 am
  • Saturday 6 am-12 am
  • Sunday 6 am-10:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the Museum of London Docklands for a fascinating insight into the area's maritime history.
  • Enjoy waterfront dining with diverse cuisines ranging from Caribbean to Mediterranean.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the West India Quay promenade for scenic views of Canary Wharf.
  • Catch a film at the Cineworld cinema located within the quarter.
  • Consider staying at the Marriott Executive Apartments for luxury accommodation with dock views.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Take the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to West India Quay station, which is a 3-minute walk from the quay. Trains run frequently, connecting to Canary Wharf and central London. A single fare costs approximately £2.40 with an Oyster or contactless card.

  • Bus

    Several bus routes stop near West India Quay, including routes 135 and D3. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point. Buses provide a convenient option for visitors coming from East London and Canary Wharf.

  • Taxi or Rideshare

    Taxis and rideshare services provide direct access to West India Quay. Travel time from central London is typically 20 to 40 minutes depending on traffic, with fares ranging from £15 to £30.

  • Walking

    If you are in Canary Wharf, a pleasant 15 to 20-minute walk along the Thames Path leads you to West India Quay, offering scenic river views and pedestrian-friendly paths.

West India Quay location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather

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Discover more about West India Quay

From Maritime Hub to Urban Revival

West India Quay sits at the northern edge of the historic West India Docks, once the world’s busiest enclosed dock system established in the early 19th century. The docks were originally built to handle goods from the West Indies, including tea, sugar, and rum, reflected in the preserved Grade I listed warehouse buildings that now house the Museum of London Docklands. After the docks closed in 1980, the area underwent extensive regeneration, transforming into a vibrant urban quarter that combines heritage with modern living and leisure.

A Waterfront Experience with Diverse Attractions

Today, West India Quay offers a dynamic mix of activities. Visitors can explore the Museum of London Docklands to learn about the area's rich maritime history or enjoy contemporary entertainment at the Cineworld cinema. The quay’s promenade provides scenic views of the Thames and Canary Wharf skyline, perfect for relaxed walks. Dining options are varied, featuring Caribbean, Mediterranean, and European cuisines alongside bars and pubs with waterside seating, creating a lively social atmosphere.

Architectural Contrast and Residential Luxury

The juxtaposition of historic warehouses and modern architecture defines West India Quay’s unique character. A standout is 1 West India Quay, a 33-storey postmodern skyscraper designed by HOK, completed in 2004. Its elliptical glass and aluminium façade echoes the hull of a ship, symbolizing the area’s maritime roots. The building houses a Marriott Hotel and serviced apartments, offering luxury accommodation with stunning views over the docks and Canary Wharf.

Connectivity and Accessibility

West India Quay is well connected by public transport, served by the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) at West India Quay station, with easy access to Canary Wharf and central London. The area is pedestrian-friendly, with well-maintained paths along the waterfront and ample amenities including restrooms, seating, and information boards. The proximity to Canary Wharf also means a wealth of shopping and business facilities nearby, making it a convenient spot for both leisure and work.

Community and Events

The quarter hosts various cultural and social events throughout the year, leveraging its waterside setting for boat trips and outdoor dining experiences like BBQ boats and hot tub boats. The blend of historic charm and contemporary lifestyle attracts a diverse crowd, from families and professionals to tourists seeking a scenic urban escape with a rich backstory.

Preserving Heritage Amid Urban Life

Despite its modern amenities, West India Quay remains deeply connected to its heritage. The preservation of historic dock buildings and the presence of the Museum of London Docklands ensure that the story of London’s maritime past remains visible and accessible. This balance of old and new makes West India Quay a compelling destination that honors its roots while embracing the future.

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