During its maritime past, the area was once a murky wasteland, but it has since been transformed into the second largest financial district in London. Although not really an island, the distinctive horseshoe shape of the Isle of Dogs is bounded by the Thames on three sides. You can find a variety of properties here, from luxury contemporary developments and warehouse conversions to Victorian terraces and town houses.
Fulfilling your lifestyle aspirations…
Set in a converted church, The Space is a performing arts centre that hosts a variety of events and performances, with an exciting programme of music, theatre, dance and comedy. They also offer weekly performance workshops for children and adults, as well as training in arts administration and technical theatre.
Being so close to so much water, there are plenty of water-related activities to try on what locals call ‘The Island’. One of the best places to start is the Docklands Sailing and Watersports Centre, where you can find accredited windsurfing, canoeing, sailing and powerboat training courses.
Located in the middle of the Isle of Dogs on 32 acres of countryside, Mudchute Park and Farm is one of Europe’s largest inner-city farms. Open 7 days a week and with no admission fee, the farm is home to over 100 animals, including a collection of British rare breeds. There is also an equestrian centre, a café serving home-cooked food and they regularly hold a variety of events and courses.
If you’re looking for somewhere special for weekend brunch, then why not visit Plateau? You can enjoy the views across Canary Wharf whilst you indulge in their menu of contemporary French cuisine. Coffee connoisseurs will enjoy a trip to Taylor St. at South Quay, where they curate some of the best coffees in the world, and also serve a selection of homemade cakes, artisan sandwiches and hot breakfasts.
Getting around
There are a number of DLR stations on the Isle of Dogs, including Canary Wharf, Heron Quays, South Quay, Crossharbour, Mudchute and Island Gardens. The Jubilee Line serves the area (the nearest Tube station is Canary Wharf), as do a number of bus routes, including the 135, 277, D3, D6, D7, D8, and N550.
Families will love
There are two fascinating museums easily accessible from the Isle of Dogs. Explore London’s 2000 year history of trade with the rest of the world at the Museum of London Docklands. Equally, the whole family will enjoy the Museum of Childhood, home to exhibits of toys and games collected over the years.
Many good schools can be found throughout the area, including Bygrove Primary School, Canary Wharf College, Cyril Jackson Primary School and Manorfield Primary School. To discover properties within the catchment area, contact Franklyn James, sales and letting agents Isle of Dogs.