St. Katharine Docks

The Basics

Set on the north bank of the River Thames, the St. Katharine Docks opened in 1828 while the British Empire was at its height. Along with other docks in the area, they welcomed shipments of goods that would find their way into shops and markets across London. The docks were badly damaged by bombing raids in World War II and lay derelict until the 1990s, when they were transformed into the mixed-use development you can see today.

The docks are popular with photographers interested in capturing photos of historic sights. Book a photography tour to see the area from a professional’s point of view, or, if you’d rather learn about local history, you can join a guided walking tour.

Things to know before you go

• The St. Katharine Docks include the only marina in central London.

• The area is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

• The docks host a lunchtime street food market on Thursday and Friday.

How to get there

St. Katharine Docks are located on the north bank of the Thames River in Wapping, close to Tower Bridge. You can reach the area by taking the Dockland Light Railway to the Tower Gateway station the Circle and District Lines to Tower Hill.

When to get there

The docks are open to the public all year round. Special events are common and include the annual classic boat festival in September, food markets, and even art exhibitions.

Tower Bridge

Located just a few-minutes’ walk from St. Katharine Docks, Tower Bridge is one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Finished in 1894, it is a feat of Victorian engineering designed to allow the roadway to split into two halves that rise to allow tall sailing ships to pass through so they could dock at nearby wharves. The bridge still raises several times a day, so if you’re lucky, you might catch it in action.

Ways to explore

Despite its proximity to the always-bustling Tower Bridge and Tower of London, St. Katharine Docks is something of an under-appreciated gem and a pocket of calm in the busy capital. The marina’s old red-brick warehouses provide a portal into London’s past while the luxury yachts bobbing in the water speak to its present. The marina is a lovely spot for a stroll or a meal overlooking the river, and several group and private walking tours focused on London’s hidden gems and maritime history include a visit to St. Katharine Docks, providing more insight into their development.

Accessibility

St. Katherine Docks is wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None, but always supervise kids around the water.

What to pack

Raincoat, umbrella, sunscreen

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes, extra layer for waterfront breezes

Not allowed

Swimming, fishing, cycling

Amenities

Restrooms, water fountains, Wi-Fi, ATMs

Address

St. Katharine Docks are located on the north bank of the River Thames.

Driving

With its heavy traffic, limited parking, and congestion zones, central London is not a fun place to drive. Take a taxi, rideshare, or public transportation instead.

Public transportation

Tower Hill Station (Circle and District lines) is a 5-minute walk to St. Katharine Docks, and bus routes 100 and N551 stop at the docks. You can also take a Thames Clippers river ferry to Tower Pier.

Best times to visit

Visit in late morning for a stroll along the river, followed by lunch at one of the dock’s eateries.

Best days to visit

Bring your appetite on Fridays, when the docks host a lunchtime food market featuring vendors from around the world.

Best months to visit

May to September promise the warmest and sunniest weather and the best opportunities to enjoy the marina’s outdoor restaurants, cafés, and riverside walks.

Special events

In September, the Classic Boat Festival brings vintage vessels, sometimes including the Little Ships from the World War II Dunkirk evacuation, to the marina.