Royal Wharf is a modern and luxury development situated in Newham, which was recently named as the UK’s biggest enterprise zone. The location boasts thousands of prestigious new riverside apartments and townhouses overlooking the River Thames and is based in a convenient and core location in London with easy transport for all London commuters. 

Whilst many people overlook the Royal Docks area, we see it as more of a hidden gem with plenty of things to do and see for all the family, including paddleboarding, sailing, swimming, cable cars and plenty of green space which is perfect for a warm summer’s day.

Royal Docks has plenty of activities for those in the local area, with ExCeL London hosting a range of fantastic and diverse events throughout the year.

If you’re looking for family friendly activities in the Royal Docks area, you might like to carry on reading. We have listed some of our favourite things to do, which are perfect for the whole family!

Emirates Airline Cable Car

If you’re visiting London or simply looking for a leisurely attraction in an afternoon, it wouldn’t be a trip without hopping onto the Emirates cable car, which offers a unique way of travelling through London with unbelievable views. The Emirates Airline Cable Car is a fantastic way to see London from a different perspective. 

With amazing views as far as the eye can see, you will be able to spot some of London’s most iconic landmarks. The cable cars reach heights of 90 metres and have become the highest observation point over the River Thames. Having only opened in 2012, the attraction is now one of the capital’s most visited observation attractions.

You can reach the Emirates Airline from North Greenwich Underground (Jubilee line) or from Royal Victoria DLR station. Taking the cable car across the river is also a more enjoyable way to reach the sights and activities on either side of the Thames.

Wake Up Docklands

For the more adventurous out there, we recommend paying a visit to Wake Up Docklands at the Royal Victoria Docks which offers a variety of water sports in an inner city environment. Here, you’ll be able to have a go at paddle boarding, cable wakeboarding or paddleboard yoga. If you don’t mind getting a little wet, then stop by Wake Up Docklands, slip into a wetsuit and get your adrenaline pumping with these exciting activities in the heart of London!

The site benefits from stunning surroundings and excellent public transport links, making it accessible for virtually anyone in London.

London Urban’s Beach

Royal Victoria Dock is commonly known as one of the best locations in London for watersports, with London’s largest urban beach which is typically open between July and August. The stretch of sandy beach provides visitors and tourists with a free family-friendly day out, and the beach is the perfect getaway to relax, indulge in ice creams and feel the sand between your toes on a hot, sunny day.

If you’re looking for something slightly more upbeat and adventurous, you’ll find plenty of watersports activities in Royal Victoria Dock within the urban beach. From wakeboarding to sailing and swimming, there really is something for the whole family.

The Crystal

The Crystal

Opened in 2012 by Siemens, The Crystal boasts the largest exhibition on the future of cities in the world as well being the most sustainable event venue. At The Crystal, you’ll find interactive displays that show crucial information about our environment and how to help to save it. The exhibitions are perfect for young and old alike.

The building is a great example of modern architecture and has become a tourist attraction of modern London. Located in the Royal Victoria Dock, the exhibition becomes a benchmark for sustainability.

The Crystal is not only a hub for discussions on sustainable living but is the only building in the world which holds various accreditations including the highest certification for BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) and LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) schemes.

Tick two Royal Docks activities off at once, as you can easily get to The Crystal via the Emirates Airline Cable Car. The best news yet, entry tickets for The Crystal cost £5, making it reasonably priced for London standards.

Thames Barrier Park & Thames Barrier

This 35-acre park opened in 2000 and was the first riverside park to open in the city in over 50 years. Thames Barrier Park boasts a landscaped garden, playground, café and fantastic views of the river and the Thames Barrier. A wonderful place to visit especially in the summer.

The Thames Barrier is a vital part of London’s flood defences; it is the largest movable flood barrier in the World. Currently the information centre is closed for refurbishment, however when it reopens in spring 2018 it will be home to an exhibition centre where people can learn how it was built, how it works and what would happen to London if it wasn’t there.

There will also be new outdoor seating and a conference room where talks from the Environment Agency will be held.

Discover Royal Docks

These are just a taste of what the Royal Docks has to offer. With new developments being built and shops opening it is only a matter of time before this area becomes one of London’s great destinations.

Interested in living in the Royal Docks? You might be interested in Royal Wharf.