Canary Wharf used to be known for offices and work drinks only, whereas these days it’s really made a name for itself as a hub for some of the best restaurants in London. 

It’s grand, it’s exciting, the travel links are wonderful (boring, but true) and the food is even better. What’s not to love?

That’s why we’ve curated a guide to the very best places to dine in Canary Wharf right now. Enjoy.

Best Restaurants in Canary Wharf 

Bōkan

£££

When it comes to choosing a restaurant for a bit of sky-high dining the views at Bōkan should be some of the first that come to mind. Nestled in among the skyscrapers of Canary Wharf you’ll feel right in the middle of the action even though you’re 37 floors up, gazing across the rest of London as you dine. 

The kitchen turns out a delightful menu of contemporary European dishes that can (and should) be enjoyed as a lavish tasting menu, probably with a bottle of nice wine recommended by their very helpful staff, whose service matches the quality of the cooking. Looking to impress a date in Canary Wharf? The above says it all.

Our choice is the 7-course tasting experience that’s £99 and worth every penny as you enjoy some of the best seafood, veggie, meat, and sweet dishes in London.

Big Easy 

££ 

With some of the best views in the capital, Big Easy restaurant has to be our favourite place to eat in Canary Wharf. In fact, we’ve already blabbed all about their delicious brunch here.

The all-American barbecue vibe really works and it’s the best place for lobster and meat dishes, all served in the expected – and very much welcomed – oversized American portion. 

It’s also a top place to grab a burger (make it the bacon and cheese Smokehouse) and sip daiquiris. You won’t go wrong with a cocktail or two here.

Chai Ki

££ 

Classy Indian dishes with a modern twist and a fantastic roof terrace, what’s there not to love? 

We’ve been to Chai Ki a few times and it never disappoints. Well presented dishes, an incredible fusion of tastes and a delightful ambiance to go alongside. 

We recommend trying the burnt chilli chicken, a typical Indonesian/Indian (aka indo-indian) style dish – it’s to die for. Though the chicken tikka naan is a crowd pleaser, too. If you’re meat-free, grab the awesome Market Sabz biryani.

Six by Nico

£££

With a rotating menu concept that changes every six weeks, Six by Nico is one of the top places to dine in Canary Wharf. 

Menu examples include Street Food menus, best-of menus, yet our absolute fave is their current ‘Trust’ experience menu.

You receive a blank menu before embarking on a 10-course culinary journey expertly curated by the chefs. You write down what you think is in each course before its revealed afterwards by the staff. 

Available for just £55, this is seriously great value and a heck of a lot of fun.

Roka Canary Wharf 

£££

Famed for contemporary Japanese cuisine right in the heart of Canary Wharf, Roka is definitely more on the expensive side of Canary Wharf restaurants, but boy is it worth it. 

The chefs at Roka use the robata grill to cook the vast majority of their dishes. Think grilled meats and perfectly fresh fish.

This method of cooking was originally from the fishermen of the northern coastal waters off japan, who would cook fish on boats using all sorts of charcoal and share it with others using their oars. Pretty cool, huh?

Although you won’t be out at sea in Japan, the food is incredible and the ever-changing menu is a good touch. 

The Gun

££ 

Right in the heart of the docklands on the River Thames is this wonderful pub, The Gun. Newly refurbished, the pub serves a fantastic British seasonal menu with daily changing specials. 

If you’re heading to the O2, The Gun makes for a great pit-stop beforehand. Enjoy some great views of the Thames and, if the sun comes out on the terrace, there’s genuinely nowhere better. 

We highly recommend the whitebait or seared scallops, both are amazing and make our mouths water as we speak (or type). 

Goodman Canary Wharf 

£££

The best steak in Canary Wharf by a mile, these guys have a big reputation when it comes to their meats. 

The motto is simple at Goodman, ‘Great Steak, Great Wine, Great People’… And they certainly live up to it. 

The steaks vary from Scottish grass fed fillets, to New York strips and Black Angus’ steaks – and if you have any questions the lovely waiters will certainly help you out. 

Oh and the bernaise sauce is dreamy. Get that. 

Scarpetta

£ 

We love Scarpetta and its rustic, homemade pasta with a modern twist. This spot has slowly made a real name for itself in the London pasta scene and we’re so here for it. 

Enjoy a real authentic Italian meal right in the centre of Canary Wharf and don’t break your wallet trying to do it. The bucatini cacio e pepe is a refreshing take on a dish that can all too often become a bland gloop of pasta, while their bruschetta really packs a tomatoey punch.

Also, they hand make their pasta every morning from scratch. Now that is commitment to the cause. 

Iberica’s La Terraza

££

The best place for outdoor drinking and eating, Iberica’s outdoor terrace is genuinely the most stunning oasis away from the noise of the big city, yet still so central. 

Just around the corner from Canary Wharf tube station, stepping onto Iberica’s La Terraza is akin to stepping into Spain. 

Enjoy a wonderful selection of tapas and pinchos whilst surrounded by beautiful contemporary design. Definitely give the cured meat selection or selection of artisan cheeses a try and ask your waiter for the best wine pairing. 

Market Halls Canary Wharf 

£ 

Although this isn’t just one restaurant, it would be mad not to mention Market Halls Canary Wharf. We love it here as you’ve got such a vast variety of local traders serving some next level street food. 

The Market Halls boast some stunning views across the canal in a huge industrial style space, with food from sushi and tacos to burgers and pasta all on offer. 

This is the perfect spot to grab a drink and wander around whilst you decide what you want to eat. We love it. 

Scoff & Banter 

££ 

Impressive floor-to-ceiling windows stretch over the river of this swanky restaurant, Scoff & Banter.

The restaurant is all about celebrating exceptional local produce with some amazing European dishes. It’s all about where the ingredients are from in this restaurant and letting them shine in simple yet delicious courses.

It’s a controversial choice, we know, but we’re partial to a French onion soup and Scoff & Banter does not disappoint. Otherwise, their elevated take on fish and chips is equally tasty. 

The Narrow 

££

Although a ten minute walk away from the area,Bread Street Kitchen and Bar is still one of the best restaurants near Canary Wharf.  

A beautiful spot by the river (again!) Gordon Ramsey has created a fantastic space for some amazing food in this restaurant. There’s no complaining when scallops are paired with rosemary mash and crisp pancetta (seriously yum).

An excellent choice if you’re wondering a little further from Canary Wharf, to Limehouse.

The Sipping Room 

£

The Sipping Room is a gorgeous bar in a grade II listed building with a large al fresco terrace. 

We love the atmosphere at this Drake & Morgan bar as it really feels like everyone is there to have a good time. Not only are the drinks great (and strong), but the food is also delicious. We highly recommend the seafood risotto and the aubergine dip to start. 

Drink wise, the Lavender and Violet Fizz is a must. Sip away at the Sipping Room!  

The Parlour 

££

Another Drake & Morgan offering, The Parlour is the perfect location for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with an accompanying cocktail at all times, of course. The striking bar and large terrace is a great place to drink and eat in Canary Wharf. 

The food is delicious (they serve a Chicken Kyiv of dreams, trust us) and the cocktails even better. Another lovely selling factor with this spot is the fact that over 40 wines are by the glass.

The Ivy

£££

Part of the famous Ivy group of restaurants, The Ivy In The Park is in one of Canary Wharf’s most sustainable buildings. Set over two floors, there is a main dining area and bar, and two awesome outdoor terraces which are great for summer evenings.

They cater to every taste, and we love their coconut sweet potato curry served with jasmine rice, yet their steaks are the definite show-stoppers.

The 7oz fillet of beet is wonderful, as is the scorched 12oz rib-eye. Enjoy either doused in red wine sauce to really top off the dish.

With great drinks, and outstanding service as you’d expect from this top-market brand, this is one of the best spots for a lovely evening meal in the Docklands.

Feels Like June

££

Whatever time of day you choose to visit, whether it’s for an early breakfast to set up a long day ahead, a leisurely weekend brunch, or a decent dinner, Feels Like June has you covered.

Choose from their range of small plates including tuna croquettes and charred octopus, or help yourself to a chipotle beef brisket sticky rice bowl. We also eyed their tacos with envious glances, especially sweet potato and goat cheese one.

If you’re out with mates, and feeling especially carnivorous, grabbing a share of the 800g beef ribeye on the bone and a range of awesome sides might just be the way to go. It’ll set you back a few quid, but you’ll come away feeling enormously satisfied.

Wahaca

£

This Mexican chain is one of the best for top-drawer food at street food prices and Wahaca in Canary Wharf definitely hits the spot with its spicy range of Mexicana grub.

Grab a textbook margarita, bask in the sweet light surroundings and we dare you not to begin bodypopping to the cool latino soundtrack. 

Whether you’re after a lighter bite, or want to go big, you won’t be breaking the bank. We tend to go for their sweet potato burrito that just bursts with flavour, ancho mushroom enchilada, or if we’re not fancying a tortilla wrap, grab a rainbow bowl that tastes as vibrant as it looks.

Pergola on the Wharf

££

One of the most attractive restaurants in the area, Pergola on the Wharf is a beautifully designed and decorated space that’s far removed from the clinical glassy feel of much of Canary Wharf.

Their range of small plates can quickly add up to a decent little tapas, yet their Quinoa Salad with grilled chicken breast is an absolute delight, especially if you get the skinny fries dripping with cheese fondue on the side.

With a Sunday roast menu from 5pm that absolutely hits the spot, or a Saturday menu that’s full of lovely brunch options, what we love best of all is their Sunday “Gospel” Brunch 3-course menu that includes a sparkly Mimosa on arrival.

Choose your starter, main, and dessert for just £45 per person. Trust us, it’s great value for money, and a real taste party in your mouth!

Fish Game

££

A relative newcomer to the Canary Wharf culinary collection, Fish Game is a charcoal grill restaurant that has come about as a result of Roberto Costa’s travels throughout the UK, finding the most seasonal ingredients from sustainable sources.

Combining game and fish is a bold move, yet, trust us it works, and all at affordable prices. Choose a starter and main from the set dinner menu for just £26 – we went for the Steak Tartare and the Cuttlefish in a rich tomato sauce – and enjoy one of the more than 200 wines to accompany your food.

The restaurant has its own agave bar and chilli catalogue for those that want to add a little pzazz to their palette on their evening out!

Canary Wharf Restaurants: Map 

The post The 19 Best Restaurants in Canary Wharf appeared first on London x London.

There’s something reassuring about the type of bars you find in a city district. Discerning, sophisticated and just the right amount of chintz to keep the tourists at bay! In London that place is Canary Wharf.

With a polished mix of sky bars, rooftop bars, wine bars and sports bars, Canary Wharf holds its own when it comes to after-work drinks, or as a fun destination in its own right. But as you’d expect from money mile it’s on the pricier side, so prepare your bank account, we’re about to reveal the best bars in Canary Wharf.

The Best Bars in Canary Wharf

The Lowback 

££ 

Question: what do you get when you cross Hawksmoor’s long-established cocktail skills with one of Canary Wharf’s newest spots? 

Answer: The Lowback. 

The Lowback is Hawksmoor’s best bar offering yet. Where Hawksmoor’s bars have always been a key part of their restaurant offering (we’ve long been fans of popping into the Seven Dials branch for a late-night drink or two), The Lowback takes it all one step further. 

Perched cheekily on the water in Canary Wharf’s Wood Wharf, it’s the perfect pre-dinner, post-dinner or drink-your-way-through-dinner spot. 

Cocktail-wise, you’re spoilt for choice. Need something a little punchy? Sidle your way up to the long wooden bar to nab a Tommy Verde, a heady mix of reposado tequila, cucumber agave with green tomato, olive and lime – but they’re also a dab hand at a classic cocktail too. 

The Cocktail Club 

Canary Wharf

££

Nothing says party like bartenders dancing on the tables, burlesque girls flaunting their legs in bowls of gold confetti, or the pounding bass of Rihanna-Sean Paul dance remixes. 

A far cry from the suave speakeasies or stiff hotel bars that claim to be true home of the cocktail, The Cocktail Club’s newest outpost in Canary Wharf is the place to be for late nights that you don’t plan to end, a cocktail menu that works in support of that cause, and maybe even a little table dancing of your own. 

The Canary Wharf location is right on the waterfront, a short walk from a host of other bustling restaurants and bars, situating itself as the cherry on the cake of your Canary Wharf night out. 

The only kebab in the area open past midnight is entombed deep in the labyrinths of an impossible-to-navigate shopping mall. You have been warned. Good Luck.

Boisdale of Canary Wharf

£££

Oysters on ice, check. Live music, check. An outdoor terrace and Canary Wharf roof bar, double-check. Boisdale is a one-stop destination pulling in the wheel-heeled crowd of the Wharf. 

There’s no better place in the city for fine food and live jazz, blues, and soul music from top musicians every night of the week. It’s the perfect spot for hanging with friends, or impressing clients from across the pond.

The Alchemist

£££

You say cocktail flaring, they say molecular mixology – such is the finesse of one of the best cocktail bars in Canary Wharf. 

Always impressive, The Alchemist is a popular spot for wooing everyone from prospective clients to potential partners! Sink into the sublime setting, aesthetically designed with a touch of theatre in the drinks delivery. 

Come the weekend, the bottomless brunch and take-home cocktails make the schlep into town oh-so worthwhile.

Munich Cricket Club

££

Don’t adjust your screens, you really did read Munich Cricket Club. And yes, it’s every inch as randomly brilliant as it sounds. 

With a Bavarian backdrop of lip-licking German food, well-brewed drinks and an unmissable weekly Oompah band, it’s one of the most vibrant Canary Wharf bars you’ll find. Granted, it’s really not what you’d expect in these parts, but it surprisingly works. 

With a laid-back welcoming vibe and great German brews (did we mention the beer!), it might just be our favourite not-so-guilty pleasure.

Sports Bar & Grill Canary Wharf

£/££

The bromance factor is strong at Sports Bar & Grill – one of the prime sports bars Canary Wharf has to offer. Gather the gang, get a kitty together, and come for the football… or the rugby… or the ice hockey… or the boxing. You get the picture. 

Complete with giant screens, a myriad of sports paraphernalia, all-day dining and hearty meals of pie, burgers and breakfast, it’s a sports mecca that does what it says on the tin.

Bōkan

££

With ‘scrapers for miles and an army of workers looking for after-hours fun, the rooftop bars in Canary Wharf are amongst the best in the capital. One of the newbies on the block, Bokan, dangles high on the 38^th floor, with soothing views across the city. 

A destination in its own right, it feels like a private-members club, but without any of the BS that comes with it. With a stunning food menu sprinkled with European influence, and a cocktail list you’ll never tire of, it’s one of the best sky bars Canary Wharf has to offer.

Iberica Canary Wharf

££/£££

The Spanish do lingering post-work drinks with such sophistication. 

There’s no downing shots on a Monday night, or a dirty kebab at midnight – yes we’re talking to you! Instead, drinks are served in sensible chalice beer glasses, with a smattering of tapas to line one’s stomach. Much we can learn. 

Ordering an artisan cheese board, some cured meats and an Estrella is a good place to start. Iberico has got to be one of the best bars in Canary Wharf for all the med vibes.

Pergola on the Wharf

££

High above the northern dock, with panoramic views across the quays, you’ll find Pergola – a bustling rooftop bar in Canary Wharf. 

With botanical brilliance lining its well-honed cocktail menu (try the White Plum Blossom) and floor-to-ceiling natural light, it’s as close as you’ll get to dining on a cloud. With a delightful menu of natural seasonal ingredients, this is the place for a power lunch followed by a cheeky cocktail. 

Come Friday night, you’ll want to do it all over again with live music and DJ sets keeping the crowds rocking.

Electric Shuffle

£

We’re seeing destination bars pop up all over the capital, and Electric Shuffle is one of the newest to the game. 

If you didn’t catch our review of the London Bridge outpost, Electric Shuffle is part Vegas casino, part futuristic tech warehouse – which is ironic given that it centres around a 200-year-old game of shuffleboard, modernised for a new era. 

That said, it’s one of the best bars in Canary Wharf for a night out that involves more than just drinking, but also having fun (remember that) with your mates. And with a fairly priced bar menu, you might just stay longer than you expected.

The Sipping Room

££

Refined yet easy-going dining makes The Sipping Room one of the prime wine bars Canary Wharf has to offer. 

Dine al fresco, or book a table indoors – ever popular for work parties, hen do’s and birthday celebrations with its generous warehouse size. It certainly knows its market with ‘Plenty of fish in the sea’ and ‘Good night out’ among its cocktails. 

Accessible, spacious and well-located, you won’t go far wrong for a big night out.

Capeesh Lounge Bar

££

Romance and Canary Wharf bars might not be the pairing you’d expect, however, this cosy bar in Canary Wharf is the exception. 

An Italian family-run business, Capeesh features a separate lounge bar, which makes it easy to slide into on a night out. If the authentic Italian cuisine doesn’t seduce you, then its waterside views will, best enjoyed at sunset with your secret office crush.

Davy’s

££/£££

More than just another wine bar in Canary Wharf, Davy’s is an institution that dates back to the 1870s. 

One of the finest purveyors of wine, its produce is hand-selected by James Davy and his team, ensuring only the very best for its well-heeled customers. 

With a classic British menu and a swish sophisticated setting, it’s the perfect embodiment of Best of British all round. 

Rocket

££/£££

With a wrap-around terrace that looks up at the Blade Runner-esque neon towers and a menu of cocktails that’s undoubtably been thought through with great care, Rocket ticks boxes on the most important aspects to look for in a Canary Wharf Bar. 

Should the weather (or the time of the year) not permit a slice of that terrace drinking, you’ll find the interior sophisticated and decidedly British in its understated style. 

Staff here are super friendly and take all responsibility bar choosing a drink right out of your hands, so you can get down to relaxing after a long day, charming new clients (or that hottie from the office), whatever it is the occasion calls for. 

The Parlour 

££

The Parlour has it all. The main space is a beautiful cocktail lounge with wood panelling and a flare of modern class to it, then off to the sides you’ll find a wine bar that brings the tone down to a nice moody, a conservatory with an extra lounge space, the list goes on. 

Probably highlight of the lot though is a terrace replete with fire pits to cosy up around in the winter months. 

Drinks here often light and fruity, and slip down all too easily. We’d say that The Parlour is a good shout if you’re after a bit of a wilder night than an intimate drink or two because of that. 

Nicolas Wine Bar 

££/£££

With a warm and welcoming atmosphere Nicolas Wine Bar is a lovely spot to unwind after a long day at the office. They stock a hell of a lot of vino: 300 bottles will be yours to choose from, 20 of which can be sampled by the glass. 

Of course, no evening spent sipping on wine would be complete without supping on meats and cheeses. Nicolas do a nice selection of boards in various sizes for you too share, and if you’re truly hungry, a decent menu of heartier French classics to boot. 

Canary Wharf Bars: Practical Tips 

• Canary Wharf is flush with cash so you might end up paying a bit more for drinks here. Consider that you’ll likely have to account for service charges if you’re drinking at a spot that does table service (and sometimes even at the bar). You don’t want a nasty surprise at the end of your night. 
• If you’re set on visiting a certain place for drinks you should make sure you get a booking locked in. This is especially important at the higher-end places like The Lowback and Bōkan – they’ll fill up quickly. 

Canary Wharf Bars: Map

The post Best Bars in Canary Wharf: From Rooftop Hangouts to Swanky Cocktails appeared first on London x London.

*sponsored by Barking Riverside Limited*

Hot news from east London: Barking Riverside’s Summer Sessions – a programme of events along the riverfront, are in full swing and it looks brilliant!

It’s already underway with a whole bunch of killer things ranging from fitness classes, riverside saunas, DJ sets, food and drink pop-ups and family raves. 

It’s all run by Barking Riverside Limited – the folks that hosted Emerge East, the area’s first community festival, held in December of 2022. If that one was anything to go by then what they’ve got going on over the summer should be seriously good fun. 

The sessions will be running until the 17th of September. Here’s what’s coming up…

The Lowdown on Barking Riverside’s Summer Sessions Calendar 

Meetini Mobile Cocktail Bar 

24th – 27th August, 31st August – 3rd September, 7th + 8th September, 14th – 17th September

For the last two weekends of August and into September the riverside pop-ups will be joined by the Meetini Cocktail Bar – a mobile bar who’re regular traders at Broadway Market and will be serving up delicious cocktails and drinks in a setting that fosters a bit of socialising. 

The Boathouse 

9th + 10th September

Barking-local, The Boathouse Cafe and Bar, will be coming down to take over a spot by the Thames to lay on a lovely bit of al fresco drinking and dining. Their Rhythm and Blues inspired party will feature live music, DJ sets and a special BBQ menu. Good vibes guaranteed. 

Riverside Fitness Classes 

Every weekend 

Feeling a little overindulged? Hit a few of the Summer Sessions’ weekend fitness classes. Taking place right on the waterfront you’ve got Leg, Bums and Tums workouts every Saturday morning from 11.20am – 12pm. 

Then on Sundays things get a little more chilled with riverside yoga classes running from 11am-12pm. Dreamy. 

Classes are just £5 and include a healthy drink at the end of the session.

NUGS Pop-Up 

2nd + 3rd September

For the first weekend of September NUGS – the UK’s first dedicated chicken nugget shop – will pop up on the riverside slinging a bit of what they do best: nuggets in a wild array of flavours ranging from jerk and buffalo to Korean and more. 

Big Fish Little Fish Family Rave 

2nd September

The 2nd September is all about the family rave with Big Fish Little Fish, the OG family rave crew who’ve been running banging parties for people big and small since way back. 

Practice makes perfect, right? Perhaps that’s why they’re also the best at it. Get ready for brilliant DJs, heaps of visuals, craft areas, childrens’ cocktails and the all important fully-licensed bar for the big people in the room.  

Book tickets for the family rave here

Emerge East Festival 

16th September

The community festival first held in 2022 is back. They’re teaming up with Hemingway Design to bring a full schedule of DJs, craft workshops, nature walks, an outdoor sauna experience (yes, you read that correctly) and more. 

They’ve even got local residents to put on food stands with the aim of becoming food entrepreneurs. You could be eating food from London’s next top chef…

More info and the full lineup of events can be found here.

So Why Barking Riverside?

Well, apart from just being a scenic spot for a killer summer programme, Barking is really putting itself on the map of late. The neighbourhood is on the up and up. Heaps of new things are opening and events are happening on the regular. 

Barking Riverside is cool. There’s a bunch of housing being built in the area, alongside new community facilities, green spaces and amenities. We’re into it because 50% of the housing being built in Barking Riverside is affordable and therefore easing the shortage of homes in London – something we totally get behind.  

Barking Riverside Summer Sessions: Practical Information

When: Every weekend until September 17th 

Where: Barking Riverside, next to the Project Office, off Project Road, IG11 0YP 

Website 

Directions You can reach Barking Riverside via the Overground line from Gospel Oak, which also connects to the Hammersmith & City line, District line and c2c line at Barking Station, or by using the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers pier.

Tickets: Each event is ticketed differently (and most are free). You can find all the tickets and info you need here: Barking Riverside Summer Sessions

The post Summer Sessions: Barking Riverside’s Summer-Long Events Programme appeared first on London x London.

Londoners, we know you’re always on the hunt for cool, hidden spots around the city. We also know you’re always after green spaces to chill in – preferably ones people don’t know so well. 

Let us introduce you to the Crossrail Place Roof Garden (or the Canary Wharf roof garden, as it is sometimes known) – a gorgeous greenhouse perched up high in Canary Wharf where you can chill, catch some good views and even a live performance or two. 

Why Visit Crossrail Place Roof Garden?

For a little bit of greenery in one of the most built-up areas in London. If that doesn’t do it for you, know that the plants at Crossrail Place’s Roof garden come from all around the world and are arranged in a funky order that means you can take a world tour of sorts when you tour the garden. 

Oh, and for the views of course…

What is Crossrail Place Roof Garden?

You may have heard of Crossrail Place. It’s one of the bigger complexes that makes up the boxy, glass jungle of finance that is Canary Wharf. The roof garden is a rooftop (duh) garden (err, duh) that crowns part of the building. 

The Plants

It’s one of those spaces that not many people really know about, but it boasts a few reasons to visit. Most of that is in the plants. 

The Crossrail Roof Garden is bordering on being a greenhouse. They’ve got hundreds of plants from all over the world, varying from huge trees to exotic flowers and shrubs. 

East Meets West

The coolest thing about the garden though, is how it’s laid out. By what we’re sure was no mistake at all, the middle of the Crossrail garden sits exactly on the meridian line where east meets west. 

To make something interesting out of that, the gardeners – or whoever was responsible – has laid the garden out into two halves. One with plants found in the west, the other with plants found in the east. 

You can walk down the little paths that cut through the flowerbeds and actually take a tour (of sorts) through the flora of the world. 

You’ll also be able to catch some pretty good views from the garden. And the benches tucked in among the flowerbeds make for pretty nice places to chill – or take your lunch if you work in the area. 

The Roof and Performance Space

Two things you’ll notice about the coolest roof garden Canary Wharf has to offer is that it’s got a very fancy roof, and a performance area. 

You might recognise that typical triangular shape from the British Museum’s Great Court. The architects that built that roof also built this one. 

As for the performance space: it’s an 80-seater theatre tucked in among the greenery and it looks amazing at night, the starlit sky playing backdrop to the stage – who are we kidding, you never see stars in London. You’ll have to make do with the twinkling office lights instead. 

You can see a list of any performances here

Crossrail Place Roof Garden: Practical Information

Address: Crossrail Pl, London E14 5AB

Opening Times: 9am – 9pm Daily (sometimes it stays open late for sunset)

Tickets: Free

Website

Crossrail Place Roof Garden: Map 

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There are several facts in life. Amongst them: Londoners love boats and Londoners love barbecues. Thinking about it, it was only ever a matter of time before someone put the two together and created London’s first BBQ Boats. 

That’s exactly what the people at Skuna Boats (the same folks behind the Hot Tub Boats – another of our favourite boating experiences in London) have done. 

We took to the waters in Canary Wharf to try out the concept and… spoiler alert, it was a whole load of fun. 

Here’s a sneak preview of what we got up to

Skuna BBQ Boats Canary Wharf 

Skuna launched the new boats in Canary Wharf back in 2021 and now they’re running all year round, seven days a week. With the weather looking like it might finally be on the up, maybe it’s time to squeeze a BBQ boat trip in. 

Simply make a booking (the boat can hold up to 9 guests), head down to West India Quay in Canary Wharf and hop aboard. 

What You Need to Know Before You Book the Barbecue Boat

You can bring your own food or choose from their own range of food packages. There’s also a fully-stocked bar for when you run out of your own booze. Once aboard, the boat has everything you need to create a sizzlin’ barbecue as you float between the high-rises in your vessel. 

The barbecue (gas of course, ain’t nobody trying to suffocate from charcoal fumes, plus, health and safety) is easy to use and, when you’re finished, simply switch it off and float around the quay at your leisure. 

The booking is for 100 minutes and can be rescheduled if the weather looks like it’s going to be a washout – this is London after all. 

Skuna BBQ Boats: Practical Tips 

Price: £250 Sun-Fri, 11am – 8pm; £200 Mon – Thurs, 11am – 8pm; £150 Mon – Thurs, before 11am. 

Book here

Address: West India Quay, Off Hertsmere Rd, London E14 4AL

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If you’re still craving a little of that festive season illuminated glory – good news! Canary Wharf has announced dates for their magical annual Winter Lights Festival.

The lights will return from the 18th to the 28th of January in what will be their seventh year running. 

What to Expect

For those of you that don’t know, the Winter Lights Festival is a set of light installations designed to lift the public mood during the short winter days. They commision light artists from across the UK to design installations for the show, and some of them take some pretty wild shapes. 

This year’s show features a mammoth family walking by the side of a river and a fibre-optic light tunnel, among plenty ofothers. 

If you’ve still not got the picture, imagine giant LED installations that transform the spaces you’d be walking through in Canary Wharf (and expect to be wowed). 

There’ll be 20 installations in all. Some of them are old favourites from the years before – one of those old favs is The Clew by a talented Portuguese artists named Ottotto, which turns Cubitt Steps bridge into a wild pedestrian light tunnel. 

Others, like the mammoths, are new.

Canary Wharf Winter Lights: Practical Information

Address: Canary Wharf

Dates: 18th – 28th of January

Price: Free

Canary Wharf Winter Lights: Map

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Good news for those afflicted by the long walk around Canary Wharf’s South Dock. Plans are underway to construct a footbridge that will span the body of water and save everyone’s legs. 

Here’s what you should know…

The New Bridge

The South Dock footbridge was meant to get the go-ahead back in 2018, but approval was stalled. Not to be deterred, planners have recently come back with a revised application that has now been approved and will be open in 2024. 

The approved designs plan the bridge to be 35m long and link up the part of Canary Wharf with all the business to the part where people actually live. 

That 35m makes it ten metres longer than the bridge in the original proposal. Another feature that was added to the second round of plans was a drawbridge function that will allow the bridge to lift up and let boats pass underneath it. 

They have also decided to make it pedestrian only. Sorry cyclists. 

South Docks Footbridge: Practical Information

Opening: Sometime in 2024 (at the latest). 

Cost: Free

Address: South Docks, Canary Wharf, London 

South Docks Footbridge: Map

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Fairgame: The Gist 

Essentially Fairgame is a 20,000sq ft of fairground games and activities aimed at adults. By that we mean it’s highly competitive, booze-fueled madness. 

This, just so you know, is a world first, and took four years in the making. 

Remember how much fun the fairground was as a kid? Well wait till you hear what they’ve done here…

The Games

Fairgame has upped the ante on this one, taken all your fav fairground classics and installed them with the latest point scoring tech so that there’s no chance of foul play. 

You’ll buy a game’s card when you arrive and use that every time you want to play. 

When you finish a game your points will automatically be shot up onto a leaderboard for all your friends to see. Nothing like a bit of healthy competition. 

You can expect all the usual fairground classics: there’s whack-a-mole, roll-a-ball derby, duck shooting and water gun clown to name a few. 

And every single one of them is linked up to the leaderboards.

Fairgame has taken every aspect we used to love as a kid and given it a grown-up twist. Wait till you hear what they’ve done with the food…

The Grub

At Fairgame everything is levelled up. The fare here is more of a pop-up street-food market than burger vans doing not-sure-what-this-is-made-from-patties.

They’ve got the ever-spectacular Rudy’s Pizza Napoletana firing up the ovens. That means dough made fresh daily and left to ferment. The end result: perfect crust. 

The good people from Burger & Beyond are on hand to replace the burger vans, which is reason enough alone for us to head down there (gotta love those pimped-out tater tots). 

Dos Mas are on hand with the Mexican fare. Tacos, snacks, churros and other elevated Mexican street food. 

Now, part of Fairgame’s concept is that it’s a fairground for adults. And what do London’s big kids like best? Booze. 

They brought in award winning mixologist Ali Reynolds to do a menu of artisanal cocktails, adult slushies….

… and get this: Prossecco-infused candy floss. 

Fairgame Canary Wharf: Practical Tips

When 

Now! It’s already open. Get yourself down there. 

Where

25 – 35 Fisherman’s Walk, Canary Wharf, London, E14 4DH

Tickets

You can get your tickets online right here. Prices range from £13 to £37 depending on how much food and booze you want, and include 75 mins of gameplay.  

Fairgame Canary Wharf: Map 

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* This article is sponsored by GoBoat *

We know, we know. The capital is jam-packed with epic experiences. But, how many let you become captain and navigate your way through London’s waterways? Not many, huh? That’s what we thought.

Enter GoBoat, the eco-friendly boating company that allows you to do just that.

They offer one-, two-, or three-hour self-driving boat trips that allow you to admire London’s top sights from the tranquillity of the water. All you need to do is pack a picnic.

Here’s what you need to know.

Fancy renting a GoBoat? Use the promo code ‘LONDONXLONDON’ for 20% off all bookings at the 3 London locations (Kingston, Canary Wharf, and Paddington). Valid from 13th September until 31st October.

The Ultimate Self-Drive Boating Experience

Groups of up to 8 are able to charter a private picnic boat from three locations in London: Paddington, Kingston, and Canary Wharf.

Not got a clue how to steer a boat? Don’t worry, it’s simple enough. Visitors will be given a safety briefing and a full tutorial before being let loose. Life jackets and buoyancy aids are also provided.

Once you’re fully clued up, that’s when the fun begins. 

Enjoy a chilled-out cruise at 4mph as you take in some of London’s most impressive sights, including Hampton Court Palace (Kingston), London Docklands (Canary Wharf), Little Venice, and Camden Lock (Paddington).

Three Stunning Routes

With three London routes to choose from, you’re guaranteed to spot plenty of London landmarks along the way. 

Oh, and there’s no need to stress about time management either, depending on whether you’ve chosen a 1, 2, or 3-hour journey, the friendly staff will be able to give you an estimated spot along the route where you should turn around to avoid those dreaded late-return fees.

Kingston

There are two routes to choose from if you’re travelling from Kingston. 

The first is towards Teddington Lock, passing by Kingston Rail Bridge and Trowlock Island. And we’re not kidding when we say that this one might just be the most beautiful.

The second route sees you sail towards the magnificent Hampton Court Palace passing Ravens Ait and Thames Ditton – from there, it’s a gentle swoop back around to where you started.

Paddington

Now, we don’t like to pick favourites, but the Paddington route is pretty epic. Don’t believe us? How does jetting off around the likes of Little Venice, Maida Hill Tunnel, and Camden sound? Very cool, we think. 

It might be the only alcohol-free location, but the chance to spot London Zoo and float along the edge of Regent’s Park more than makes up for it. Who needs booze when you’ve got views?

Canary Wharf

If you’re a nervous captain (not that you need to be, it’s ridiculously easy to drive these boats), Canary Wharf is the best route for beginners. 

With the safety net of a more enclosed adventure, you’ll pass the London Docklands, Billingsgate Market, and Wood Wharf. This is where you can find a quiet spot for a floating picnic before performing a 360-degree spin and heading back to where you came from.

A Fully Electric Boat

No need to worry about shouting over a roaring engine, GoBoats are packed with an almost-silent electric motor. Eco-friendly AND quiet? We love.

In fact, that’s just the tip of the green iceberg, as the deck and table on each boat have been crafted from sustainably-sourced forestry wood, and the foam kernel is made of 80% recycled PET – the equivalent of 600 plastic bottles. Pretty impressive, if you ask us.

Sustainability aside, each boat has a central table surrounded by seating, which is ideal if you’re travelling with groups of friends and family (or for a work colleague outing – shiver).

Though, don’t feel the need to fill all 8 seats; this experience makes for a great date. You’re more than welcome – in fact, you’re encouraged – to bring your own picnic and there are plenty of blankets in case things get a little chilly throughout the day (and ponchos, should it rain).

Fancy renting a GoBoat? Use the promo code ‘LONDONXLONDON’ for 20% off all bookings at the 3 London locations (Kingston, Canary Wharf, and Paddington). Valid from 13th September until 31st October.

GoBoat: Practical Information

• Alcohol can be consumed on the boat at the Kingston and Canary Wharf locations (Paddington is alcohol-free), but the captain must always remain sober. That said, limits apply – 2 cans of beer per person or 1 bottle of wine/prosecco for every 2 people.
• Can’t drive? Not a problem – you’ll get a full safety briefing before you’re let loose on the water.
• Children and dogs are welcome on GoBoats, though all children will be fitted with life jackets which must be worn throughout the ride.
• Prices for the GoBoat experience are as follows: 1 hour = £95; 2 hours = £135; 3 hours = £175.

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Hidden amidst the streets of London, you’ll find the ancient ruins of the Roman Empire that formed the foundation of what the City of London is today. 

Believe it or not, you can still take to the streets and see some of these ancient wonders with your own eyes. 

From the ruins of the Temple of Mithras to the wall the Romans erected to protect it, the remains of Roman London sit between the city’s skyscrapers and contemporary buildings. They can be a little hard to find… that is unless you know where to look. 

Where to Find Roman London

London Mithraeum 

The Temple of Mithras was just one of the temples in Londinium, but historians think that it was also one of the most significant in the city. 

Construction workers discovered the Temple in the 1950s, alongside an elaborate collection of different statues and trinkets of tribute while doing construction work in the area. The location of the ruins has changed twice because of this. 

The first was pretty much as soon as it was discovered. Due to the importance of the building that was underway, the city delicately moved the structure to a new location in Queen Victoria Street, Temple Court. 

It moved for a second time when the media giant Bloomberg built their European headquarters on the temple’s original location. Upon learning this, Bloomberg decided to transport the ruins back to their original location and rebuild the temple.

The ruins are open to the public and free to see. You can book a ticket through the Bloomberg Space and London Mithraeum website. 

The headquarters also show some of the different artefacts discovered during the uncovering of the ruins of the temple. 

London Wall 

The Museum of London is one of our favourite free museums – a special place that houses thousands of different artefacts from cultures around the world, but there is a piece of Roman history surrounding it. 

Take a walk around the outside of the museum, and you will find the remnants of a 5km-long piece of wall that the Romans built to encircle Londinium – imaginatively called London Wall. 

This thick wall stands 6 metres tall and measures 2.5 metres wide. Its purpose was to protect the city over two thousand years ago. 

Today, there are only a small amount of pieces that are still left. You will find other pieces near the underground station for Tower Hill and close to the Underground station for Barbican, on the Barbican Estate. But you will find the biggest piece of the Roman wall outside the museum. 

Sadly, the rest of the wall has been destroyed, buried, or removed over the years with the rapid expansion and development of the City of London. 

London Wall Road shows a different perspective of where the wall used to sit. This road mimics the north part of the wall and where it ran along the city’s edge. 

Billingsgate Roman House and Baths 

The Billingsgate Bath House is a 2,000-year-old ruin, discovered in 1848. 

The artefacts inside show that it was built in the 2nd century on the bank of the River Thames, with a lovely waterfront view. 

The Romans used it right up until they abandoned Londinium. This spectacular ruin even showcases modern features like underfloor heating. 

You can walk to Lower Thames Street to experience this marvel of how the Roman British lived back then. It is one of the top examples of the style and type of Roman buildings within the capital. 

The ruins were hidden from the public for a long time, in the cellar of a Coal Exchange building. Then the city destroyed this building to make way for another new development. 

During this time, more excavations were undertaken and kept again in the cellar of the new building on Lower Thames Street. 

Roman Fort

When the Romans were on their conquest of Britain, forts were the standard to protect their new settlements. The Fort of Londinium was built around 120 AD after local tribes burnt the original city to the ground.  

The fort was built on the outskirts of the city and spanned an impressive 12 acres. Over the years, the city of Londinium grew. The fort was absorbed into the construction of the protective wall that encircled the city. 

The military later decommissioned the fort as it was no longer needed — with stability coming to the region. A few pieces of the western and northern edges of the fort remain today within the Museum of London grounds.

Roman Amphitheatre of Londinium

Hidden in a vault under the Guildhall gallery are the remains of the Roman Londinium amphitheatre. 

A group of archaeologists from the Museum of London discovered the remains while planning a new gallery project. The moment the archaeologists uncovered the ruins, they became a protected monument. 

Originally made out of wood, during the 2nd century the structure underwent a renovation with a tiled entryway and stone walls added.

It could hold a few thousand visitors and the Romans used it for a variety of events, ranging from the infamous gladiator games to religious events and even executions. 

These are the most impressive of all the Roman ruins in London, and they are free to visit during the gallery’s opening hours. If you stand in the courtyard above ground, there is an outline of the perimeter of the structure laid out in grey stone paving to show the sheer scale of it. 

A Wharf Pilon from the Romans

Nestled in St Magnus, the Martyr church is a real Roman pilon dating back to the Roman period and still standing today. It is within the entry point of the church, below the bell tower. This pilon forms an integral part of what used to be the riverside wall along the river. 

Builders discovered the pilon in 1931 when they were digging foundations for a building nearby. 

A scientific study was done on the wood, and it was dated to roughly 75AD. It is incredible how a piece of wood has survived thousands of years.  

A Recent Discovery 

The summer of 2023 turned up a pretty interesting find for Roman-London enthusiasts. While digging around the site of The Liberty of Southwark site – where some fantastic mosaics were found previously – a fantastic example of a Roman mausoleum was discovered. 

It’s said to be the best-preserved Roman mausoleum in the UK, but don’t expect to see much of a structure. The best part of it has long been pulled down, likely by Londoners in the middle ages. 

What remains has been slated for public viewing once the Liberty of Southwark site is completed. 

Roman London Walk 

The best way to experience all of these things — and more — is to take a Roman London walking tour. This will take you to the sites above and provide you with a guide who can also inform you about all the unique aspects of the ruins.

Much of the remains are 7 metres below ground so you have to know where to look. Here is an outline of a path to follow.

London Wall at Tower Hill

The walk will take around three hours from start to finish with Tower Hill being the best place to start, where you will see your first piece of the London Wall. Take the underground to Tower Hill station and just outside will be a large chunk of the wall. 

Billingsgate Baths on Lower Thames Street

Take a stroll down Lower Thames Street towards the London Bridge and stop at the Roman Baths next to St Dunstan’s Hill. Not too far away from where you started. 

London Mithraeum on Walbrook 

Further down the road, opposite the Cannon Street Station and in the Bloomberg Building, is the London Mithraeum, where you can marvel at the ruins of the Roman Temple. Granted, this is a bit more of a walk to get to here but your feet won’t get too tired. 

Londinium Amphitheatre At Guildhall Gallery

A short walk up King Street will take you straight to the incredible Amphitheatre ruins of Roman Londinium. 

Museum of London on London Wall Street

Just up the road will be the end of your walk at the London Museum. Here you will find the remains of a large piece of the London Wall and the ruins of the Roman Fort that once stood there. End of your walking tour with a simple and relaxing walk along the London Wall Road to trace the original wall location and take you back to Tower Hill.

Feel like exploring all the ruins? Well, the good news is that there is a walking tour to show you the remains of Roman Londinium and provide expert knowledge while doing it. There are also a few extra hidden Roman ruins that you might not have heard of before on this walking tour of Roman Londinium. 

A Brief History of Londinium 

The history of Roman London is quite long – so we’re giving you the short version here. 

During the Roman period, Londinium was known as Roman Britain’s capital. The original area — first built in 47AD — was only a settlement, sitting on what is today the City of London.

Londinium’s Importance 

It was a strategic settlement, located at an important point to cross over the Thames. This made it an important port serving as a commercial epicentre for the Roman Empire on the British island. 

There has been a bridge at this important crossing point ever since in one form or another. The Romans built the Roman London Bridge to take Londinium citizens over the River Thames. 

Archaeologists discovered the foundations of a substantial pier foundation in the early 1980’s close to the London Bridge.  

The Rebuilding of Roman London

A coalition of local tribes destroyed the original settlement during an uprising, but the Romans rebuilt the city after. Romans built the new city according to the standard Roman philosophy of a grid layout, and by 225 AD, they encased it within a wall. 

The Roman London wall still exists today, and pieces of it still hold the City of London within it. 

The Fall of Londinium

The city hit its peak in the 2nd century, but the status of Londinium started to fall in the 5th century. During this time, the Roman Empire began to weaken after the Barbarians invaded Roman territories and other major cities of the Roman Empire cut communications. 

Londinium was effectively abandoned and fell into a state of disrepair. 

It only became relevant once again during King Alfred’s reign, where the city was used to protect the countrymen from the invading Vikings. At this time, the name was also changed to Lundenburg. 

Map of Roman Ruins in London

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