Once an important trade hub, the Royal Docks is now a thriving waterfront neighbourhood in its own right, packed with high-rise residential blocks, offices, hotels and restaurants. It gets its name from three docks – the Royal Albert Dock, the Royal Victoria Dock and the King George V Dock. The ward is in the borough of Newham, with a prime spot on the River Thames.
What’s there to do at the Royal Docks?
One of London’s biggest regeneration areas, the Royal Docks is a hive of activity. Victorian pubs and independent eateries sit alongside contemporary offerings such as Gallions Reach shopping centre – home to high street names like Topshop and River Island, chain restaurants and a Tesco supermarket.
Culture buffs living in Royal Docks will be in their element, thanks to a packed schedule of exhibitions and pop-up displays. This is the home of the legendary ExCel Centre, after all, which hosts world-famous events like Comic-Con and Oceanology International. Close by, you’ve got theatrical classes and performances at the Royal Wharf Community Dock centre, and a myriad of sports facilities on offer at SportsDock.
It’s not all about indoor activities here, either. Big-hitters are the Thames Barrier Park and the Wakeup Docklands centre – the latter is a one-stop-shop for wakeboarding, paddle boarding and paddle board yoga. Alternatively, try open-water swimming in the river for an exhilarating burst of energy you’d never find in the gym.
Commuting from the Royal Docks
When the Elizabeth Line is complete, Royal Docks residents will be able to reach Liverpool Street in just 11 minutes from Custom House. Until then, there are no less than 11 DLR stations serving the area, along with the Emirates Air Line. There’s a great network of walking and cycling routes available to get you from A to B, as well. And London City Airport makes jetting off for business or pleasure a doddle.
Royal Docks property
If you’re looking for a skyscraper with real wow factor, consider Royal Victoria Residence and Hoola, developments from City & Docklands Property Group and HUB Residential. Both are striking, ultra-contemporary towers with great transport links.
“The apartment is really great – modern, good quality and attractive. It’s also really spacious and this is what really swayed me – I looked at lots of other apartments but this one definitely had the most space.” – Anon, verified resident at Royal Victoria Residence
“In my building there is 24 hour security which allows me to feel very comfortable and safe in my home. The apartment space itself has a beautiful layout and (has) amazing views. There is also a dressing area which add to its modern feel. I love the electronic applications.” – Anon, verified resident at Hoola
“Really like the apartment – it’s new, modern and spacious. Everything works well.” – Michele, verified resident at Royal Victoria Residence
Royal Victoria Docks is another contender, just a hop from the ExCel and with a supermarket right next door…
“Easy access to central london, close to the station and very nice area for the kids.” – Bartha, verified resident at Royal Victoria Docks
Interior design enthusiasts should take a look at Royal Docks West, whose apartments and studios were dreamt up by the esteemed Johnson Ribolla. This property will also be the closest to Custom House Crossrail station when it’s complete.
For a real community feel, Waterside Park is a real gem – a joint venture from Barratt Homes, Taylor Wimpey and the Greater London Authority. This collection of low-rise buildings contains almost 800 apartments and townhouses, all surrounded by well-tended gardens.
Ballymore’s Royal Wharf offers a similar feel on a more grandiose scale, with more than 3,385 units and a purpose-built market square and high street.
“Great new area for young professionals and families, good crowd and lots of great amenities
We also have great views good services concierge and a mail room for parcels when you’re not in. Friendly staff and very safe.” – Royalwharf1, verified resident at Royal Wharf
Another HomeViews reviewers’ favourite is Barrier Point, a Barratt Homes development near London City Airport…
“The location is very convenient, accessibility to transportation, the parks and schools are close by for the kids, overall I like Barriers Point, the rooms are soundproof having been located next to the airport is advantageous.” – Charles, verified resident at Barrier Point
“Great development with a lot of parking and a family friendly feel. The pontoon dock dlr station is very close by and in walking distance. Some new shops have opened up such as sainsburys and a Starbucks.” – Ryan, verified resident at Barrier Point
Want to learn more about living in the Royal Docks? Click on the developments below to read reviews from real Royal Docks residents.
