St Katharine Docks Marina
London's only central marina: historic waterfront elegance where maritime heritage meets modern leisure.
Central London's only marina, St Katharine Docks is a historic waterfront destination where luxury yachts and traditional sailing vessels rest alongside elegant restaurants, independent shops, and cafés. Originally opened in 1828 as a commercial port designed by Scottish engineer Thomas Telford, the docks were redeveloped into a vibrant leisure complex after closing to commercial traffic in 1968. Today, this peaceful haven offers stunning views of Tower Bridge, maritime heritage experiences, and a refined atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the bustling city beyond its cobbled walkways.
A brief summary to St Katharine Docks Marina
- 50 St Katharine's Way, London, E1W 1LA, GB
- +442072645312
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on weekday afternoons for the most peaceful experience with minimal crowds. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with golden hour reflections on the water creating magical scenes.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions: Tower Bridge and the Tower of London are just a 5-minute walk away, making St Katharine Docks an ideal lunch or dinner stop when exploring this historic corner of London.
- Check the calendar for seasonal events. The Classic Boat Festival in September and festive winter markets create vibrant atmospheres, while the World Food Market on select Fridays offers excellent lunch options by the marina.
- Take time to read the information plaques dotted around the docks. They reveal fascinating details about the area's maritime history, the ships that once traded here, and the explorers who departed from these waters.
- Explore the Dickens Inn for traditional English pub fare, or choose from diverse dining options with outdoor seating overlooking the marina. Reserve ahead during peak times, especially weekends and summer months.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground (Tube)
Tower Hill Station (Circle, District, and Metropolitan lines) is approximately 400 metres from St Katharine Docks, a 5–7 minute walk. Exit towards Tower Bridge Road and follow signs to the docks. Service runs frequently throughout the day (every 2–5 minutes during peak hours). Single fare within Zone 1 costs £1.75 with contactless payment or Oyster card; day caps apply for multiple journeys.
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River Boat (Thames Clippers)
St Katharine Pier provides direct access via Thames Clippers river services. Boats operate from Tower Pier (adjacent to Tower of London) and other central London piers, with journey times of 5–15 minutes depending on origin. Services run every 20–30 minutes during daytime hours. Fares range from £2.80 to £4.50 per journey, or unlimited day passes are available for £11.50. This option combines transport with scenic Thames views.
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Bus
Routes 15, 42, and 78 serve the Tower Bridge area, stopping within 200–300 metres of the docks. Journey times from central London range from 15–30 minutes depending on traffic and origin. Buses run every 5–15 minutes during peak times. Single fares cost £1.75 with contactless payment or Oyster card; day caps apply. This is a budget-friendly option for visitors already in central London.
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Walking
St Katharine Docks is accessible on foot from central London landmarks. From Tower of London: 5 minutes via Tower Bridge Road. From London Bridge Station: 15–20 minutes via Tooley Street and Tower Bridge. From Bank Station: 20–25 minutes via Eastcheap and Tower Hill. Pavements are flat and well-maintained, suitable for all mobility levels. The final approach involves cobbled pathways around the marina itself.
St Katharine Docks Marina location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St Katharine Docks Marina
From Trade Hub to Waterside Sanctuary
St Katharine Docks opened in 1828 to serve the expanding maritime trade entering the Pool of London. Designed by renowned Scottish engineer Thomas Telford, the docks were built on the site of the 12th-century Royal Hospital and Collegiate Church of St Katharine by the Tower. During its commercial heyday, the docks became a centre for luxury imports—brandy, rum, wine, spices, perfumes, ivory, and marble—arriving from Europe, the West Indies, Africa, and China. The docks' tidal access and compact size initially made them attractive, but as ships grew larger and more efficient facilities emerged across London's Docklands, St Katharine Docks became increasingly redundant. Severely damaged during the Second World War, the docks closed to commercial traffic in 1968. The area's transformation into a modern leisure destination represents one of London's earliest and most successful urban redevelopment projects. Rather than demolishing the character of the place, developers preserved the essential maritime infrastructure—the dock walls, lock systems, and overall layout—while introducing contemporary amenities. This careful balance between heritage and modernity defines the docks today.A Living Connection to Maritime History
Walking the cobbled pathways, visitors encounter tangible reminders of the docks' storied past. Information plaques detail the area's evolution, while the presence of historic vessels—particularly the Nao Santa Maria replica, a stunning 15th-century ship reconstruction—provides a direct link to maritime exploration and trade. The Dickens Inn, a three-storey reconstruction of an 18th-century balconied inn opened in 1976, was built using salvaged timber shell, tailboards, and ironwork from an original 1700s wooden warehouse that once stood nearby. This building stands as both a functional pub and a tangible piece of architectural heritage. The docks also hold significance in polar exploration history. In 1921, the famous polar explorer Ernest Shackleton departed from these waters aboard the Quest on his final Antarctic scientific and survey expedition—a poignant reminder of the adventurers and expeditions that once set sail from this very location.The Marina and Waterfront Scene
Today, the central basin functions as London's only marina, hosting a dynamic mix of luxury yachts, traditional sailing barges, and historic vessels. The juxtaposition of sleek modern boats against weathered dock architecture creates a visually compelling scene. Tower Bridge frames the vista in the distance, and the interplay of water reflections, historic stonework, and contemporary leisure activity gives the docks a distinctive character. The marina remains active and working, with boats regularly arriving and departing, lending authentic vitality to the space. Residential apartments, restaurants, cafés, and bars now surround the basin, creating a self-contained waterfront community. The architectural blend—Victorian warehouses converted into modern spaces, alongside newly constructed buildings—demonstrates thoughtful urban regeneration that respects historical context while embracing contemporary living.Dining, Shopping, and Seasonal Events
The docks host a diverse array of dining establishments, from traditional English pubs to contemporary restaurants specialising in Italian, seafood, and international cuisine. Many venues feature outdoor seating with direct marina views, making waterfront dining a signature experience. Independent boutiques, gift shops, and a large Waitrose supermarket cater to both residents and visitors. On select Fridays, the World Food Market brings global street food and artisanal treats to Marble Quay Courtyard, creating a lively atmosphere. Seasonal events punctuate the calendar. The St Katharine Docks Classic Boat Festival, typically held in early September, draws more than 50 vintage vessels and their owners for an interactive celebration of maritime heritage. Spring and Christmas markets introduce craft stalls and local goods, while winter festive lights transform the docks into a romantic evening destination. River boats operate from St Katharine Pier, providing water-based access and onward connections along the Thames.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Despite its proximity to major London attractions, St Katharine Docks maintains a surprisingly peaceful and refined ambience. Weekday afternoons offer the quietest experience, with fewer crowds and a contemplative quality that invites leisurely exploration. The red telephone booths scattered throughout add quintessentially British character, while the interplay of historic architecture, working marina activity, and waterfront dining creates an atmosphere that feels both timeless and contemporary. The docks function as both a working marina and a destination in their own right—not merely a backdrop to other attractions, but a complete experience unto themselves.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Roman Wall of Londinium
0.3 km
Explore the towering Roman Wall at Tower Hill, a striking relic that shaped London’s ancient cityscape and echoes 2,000 years of history.
Wakefield Tower
0.4 km
Medieval royal tower steeped in 13th-century splendor and tragic history within the Tower of London.
London Wall
0.5 km
Explore London Wall, an ancient Roman landmark revealing the rich history of Londinium amidst the modern cityscape of London.
Tower Hill Memorial
0.5 km
Honouring 35,000 merchant seafarers with no grave but the sea—a dual memorial to two world wars.
1 Tower Hl Ter
0.5 km
Historic urban landmark near Tower of London, blending centuries of British heritage with maritime memorials and modern city life.
Custom House
0.8 km
Historic Custom House on London’s Thames waterfront, a grand 19th-century customs hub echoing centuries of maritime trade and empire.
Execution Dock House
0.9 km
Historic riverside site where pirates and maritime criminals met justice in London’s centuries-old Admiralty executions.
The Captain Kidd
1.0 km
Historic riverside pub with authentic maritime charm, classic ales, and scenic Thames views in London’s Wapping district.
Pudding Ln
1.0 km
Explore Pudding Lane, a historic London street where the Great Fire ignited, and discover the rich heritage and vibrant culture of the City.
Bevis Marks Synagogue
1.0 km
Discover Bevis Marks Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in the UK, where rich history and stunning architecture meet in the heart of London.
The Shard
1.0 km
Experience London’s tallest landmark with breathtaking 360-degree views, luxury dining, and iconic cityscapes from The Shard’s sky-high observation decks.
Lloyd's of London
1.0 km
A high-tech architectural masterpiece blending tradition and innovation in the heart of London’s financial district.
Church of Saint Magnus-the-Martyr
1.1 km
Experience the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of the Church of Saint Magnus-the-Martyr, a historical gem in the heart of London.
Monument to the Great Fire of London
1.1 km
An iconic Doric column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering panoramic city views from its historic 311-step climb.
30 Saint Mary Axe - Swiss Re
1.1 km
Discover The Gherkin, London’s pioneering eco-friendly skyscraper with its iconic spiraling glass façade and panoramic city views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Tower Bridge
0.3 km
Walk across London’s most famous bridge, explore its high-level walkways and glass floors, and discover the Victorian engineering behind this iconic landmark.
Lanthorn Tower
0.3 km
Step into the Lanthorn Tower to explore the medieval royal lodgings and rich history of the Tower of London’s riverside palace.
Tower of London
0.3 km
Explore the Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage site, rich in history and home to the Crown Jewels, perfect for all history lovers.
The Crown Jewels
0.4 km
Explore the dazzling Crown Jewels collection, a symbol of British monarchy and history, housed securely within the iconic Tower of London.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
0.4 km
Explore London’s iconic Tower Bridge with panoramic views, historic Engine Rooms, and a unique gift shop celebrating this engineering masterpiece.
Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula
0.4 km
Historic Tudor chapel within the Tower of London, resting place of executed royalty and a vibrant parish church for over 500 years.
Tower Hill
0.5 km
Historic Tower Hill offers a captivating blend of medieval heritage, iconic landmarks, and vibrant riverside charm in the heart of London.
Bridge Theatre
0.5 km
Experience cutting-edge theatre in London’s innovative Bridge Theatre, where flexible design meets immersive performances by the Thames.
Tower of London Ice Rink
0.5 km
Skate in the historic moat of London’s iconic Tower of London for a magical winter experience surrounded by medieval walls and festive cheer.
Shad Thames
0.5 km
Historic riverside charm meets modern luxury in Shad Thames, London’s iconic Victorian warehouse quarter by Tower Bridge.
Sundial at the Tower Hill
0.5 km
A captivating bronze sundial near Tower Hill station, telling London’s 2,000-year history through intricate carvings and offering stunning views of the Tower of London.
Potters Fields Park
0.5 km
A peaceful riverside park by Tower Bridge blending historic pottery heritage with vibrant gardens and iconic London views.
Gunpowder Plot: The Immersive Experience
0.5 km
Immerse yourself in the thrilling 1605 Gunpowder Plot with live actors, authentic vaults, and cutting-edge VR at Tower Hill Vaults.
8-12 Tower Hill
0.6 km
Historic Tower Hill in London, where ancient walls meet iconic landmarks and vibrant riverside life unfolds.
Trinity Square Gardens
0.6 km
A quiet City garden on the site of Tower Hill’s scaffold, home to the Tower Hill Memorial and framed by historic architecture and views of the Tower of London.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Story
0.6 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
La Dame de Pic London
0.6 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
14 Hills
0.9 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
1.0 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
1.0 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
George
1.3 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
1.4 km
Experience freshly handcrafted Japanese udon and crispy tempura in a lively open kitchen setting at Marugame Udon Middlesex Street, London’s authentic udon destination.
Madison
1.8 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Nomadic community
1.9 km
A colorful, community-driven urban garden near Brick Lane, blending street art, creativity, and green space in East London’s vibrant cultural scene.
Lyle's
2.0 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Mercato Metropolitano
2.0 km
A vibrant, sustainable community food market in Elephant & Castle offering global flavors, local sourcing, and a lively social atmosphere.
The Clove Club
2.4 km
Two Michelin stars meet innovative modern British cuisine in a historic Shoreditch Town Hall setting with a unique urban garden.
Nest Restaurant Old Street
2.4 km
Intimate Shoreditch gem offering creative British seasonal tasting menus in a cozy, historic setting with a sustainable ethos.
Sea Containers Restaurant
2.5 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Brawn
2.5 km
Seasonal Mediterranean small plates and natural wines in a lively, vintage-inspired Shoreditch setting on Columbia Road.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tower of London Shop
0.5 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Traders Gate
0.6 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
Petticoat Lane Market
1.1 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
Middlesex Textiles
1.2 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Bermondsey Antique Market
1.2 km
Uncover vintage treasures at London’s oldest antiques market, where history meets haggling every Friday morning in Bermondsey Square.
Fashion St
1.3 km
A historic East London street where Victorian architecture meets modern creativity, surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and vibrant community life.
The Royal Exchange
1.3 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
Borough Yards
1.4 km
Discover Borough Yards, a lively London district blending historic railway arches with cutting-edge shopping, dining, and culture near Borough Market.
Commercial St
1.4 km
Historic East London artery blending industrial heritage, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks in the heart of Spitalfields.
1 Poultry
1.5 km
Iconic postmodern office and retail building with vibrant limestone stripes, a colorful atrium, and a rooftop garden overlooking London’s financial district.
Spitalfields Market
1.5 km
Historic yet vibrant, Spitalfields Market blends East London’s rich heritage with a lively mix of food, art, and shopping all week long.
Sclater Street Market
1.6 km
Vintage treasures and eclectic finds in the heart of Shoreditch's bohemian marketplace.
DPUS Designer Outlet
1.6 km
Authentic designer fashion outlet in Shoreditch’s historic Old Truman Brewery, blending luxury style with urban culture and unbeatable prices.
The Brick Lane Vintage Market
1.6 km
Explore the UK’s largest underground vintage market, where fashion history meets East London creativity and every visit promises a unique find.
The Truman Brewery Markets
1.6 km
Historic brewery turned vibrant markets on Brick Lane, offering vintage treasures, global street food, and creative culture in East London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Nine Lives
0.8 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
The Bootlegger
1.0 km
Step into The Bootlegger’s hidden Lime Street basement for expertly crafted cocktails, live jazz, and a true 1920s speakeasy vibe in the heart of London.
Moonshine Saloon
1.0 km
Step into London’s Moonshine Saloon for an immersive Wild West cocktail adventure with live actors, games, and bespoke drinks made from your own spirits.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
1.1 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
The Bell
1.1 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
1.1 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
Discount Suit Company
1.2 km
Discover a hidden vintage cocktail bar beneath Spitalfields, blending bespoke drinks with a cozy speakeasy atmosphere in London’s historic tailoring district.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
1.2 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
The Old School Yard
1.3 km
Step into a lively retro playground with expertly crafted cocktails, classic arcade games, and a vibrant 80s and 90s atmosphere in London Bridge.
The Astronomer, EC1
1.4 km
A traditional London pub with a cosmic twist, offering hearty pies, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near Liverpool Street.
Demon, Wise & Partners
1.4 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
Dirty Dicks
1.4 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
1.4 km
Discover Shoreditch’s secret speakeasy behind a fridge door, where quirky vintage charm meets expertly crafted cocktails and lively 80s beats.
The Midnight Apothecary
1.4 km
Discover a magical rooftop bar blending botanical cocktails, fire pits, and historic tunnel tours atop London’s Brunel Museum.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Shoreditch
1.9 km
Experience East London's vibrant nightlife with inventive cocktails and bold Japanese-inspired art at The Cocktail Club Shoreditch.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
E1
0.8 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
The Steel Yard
1.3 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
Ministry of Sound
2.2 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
The Hoxton Pony
2.2 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
XOYO LONDON
2.3 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
Corsica Studios
2.3 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
Trafik
2.4 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
Club 701
2.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
Basing House - Shoreditch
2.5 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
London Best Night Clubs
2.8 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
3.1 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
3.1 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
3.1 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
Proud Late
3.2 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
3.5 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Modern
- Waterfront
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
