
St Katharine Docks has a rich history dating back to the 19th century, with its origins as a major commercial dock in the heart of London.
The docks were built in 1828 and quickly became a hub for trade and commerce, with the first ships arriving in 1829.
In the 19th century, the docks were a major import and export point for goods such as wool, coal, and grain.
The docks' location on the River Thames made it an ideal spot for trade, with ships able to easily dock and unload their cargo.
Today, the docks have been transformed into a vibrant and bustling area, with a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.
The area is now home to over 200 businesses, including restaurants, bars, and shops, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
A pedestrianized street runs through the heart of the docks, lined with cafes and shops, and offering stunning views of the river.
History and Attractions

St Katharine Docks has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. The docks were originally constructed in 1828 as a major commercial shipping hub.
The docks' historic warehouses and buildings have been beautifully restored and now house trendy bars, restaurants, and shops. You can explore the historic architecture and get a glimpse into the past.
Today, St Katharine Docks is a popular tourist destination and a hub for local life, with many events and activities taking place throughout the year.
History of St Katharine Docks
St Katharine Docks has a rich history dating back to the 19th century, when it was one of the busiest ports in London.
The docks were built between 1825 and 1828, and were originally designed to handle the cargo of ships coming from the Baltic Sea.
In its heyday, St Katharine Docks was a major hub for trade, with goods such as grain, timber, and wine being imported and exported.

The docks were also home to a large number of warehouses, which were used to store goods before they were transported to other parts of the city.
Today, St Katharine Docks is a popular tourist destination and a residential area, with many people living in apartments and houses along the dock's edge.
The dock's historic buildings have been preserved and are now used for a variety of purposes, including shops, restaurants, and offices.
Attractions near the Tower of London
The Tower of London is surrounded by a plethora of fascinating attractions that are just a stone's throw away.
The Tower Bridge Exhibition is a must-visit, located just a short walk from the Tower of London. It offers an incredible view of the city from its high-level walkways.
The Shard, Europe's tallest building, is a short walk from the Tower of London and offers breathtaking views of the city from its viewing platform.
The HMS Belfast, a historic warship, is moored on the River Thames and offers a unique glimpse into the lives of sailors during World War II.
Take a stroll along the South Bank of the River Thames, which offers a vibrant atmosphere, street performers, and a variety of food options.
The Tower of London's iconic ravens are said to be a good omen, and their enclosure is a popular spot for visitors.
The Docks Today
Today, the area is a bustling hub of activity, featuring offices, public and private housing, a large hotel, shops, and restaurants.
The City Quay residential development dominates the east dock, comprising over 200 privately owned flats with stunning views of the marina.
The South Quay Estate, originally social housing, surrounds the south side of the east dock.
You can still see small to medium-sized boats making their way in and out of the dock on a daily basis.
The Dickens Inn, a former 18th-century brewery, is a charming pub where you can grab a drink and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
The area remains a popular leisure destination, offering a range of recreational facilities and activities for visitors to enjoy.
Notable Boats and Features

St Katharine Docks is home to a range of notable boats, including the Gloriana, a royal barge.
You can also spot the MV Havengore, a former Port of London Authority hydrographic survey vessel. Several Thames sailing barges are based in the docks, adding to the area's rich maritime heritage.
The docks themselves have undergone significant transformation, with the east dock now dominated by the City Quay residential development, comprising over 200 privately owned flats overlooking the marina.
Notable Boats
The docks are home to a variety of notable boats. One of the most impressive is the Gloriana, a royal barge that's regularly moored in the docks.
The Gloriana is a significant vessel, and it's not the only one. The MV Havengore, a former Port of London Authority hydrographic survey vessel, is also a notable boat that can often be found in the docks.
Some of the boats you might see in the docks include the Gloriana and the MV Havengore.
Other Docks Features

The area now features offices, public and private housing, a large hotel, shops and restaurants, a pub, a yachting marina and other recreational facilities. It remains a popular leisure destination.
The east dock is dominated by the City Quay residential development, comprising more than 200 privately owned flats overlooking the marina.
The south side of the east dock is surrounded by the South Quay Estate, originally social housing.
Redevelopment and Closure
St Katharine Docks has undergone significant redevelopment in recent years. The redevelopment has included the construction of new buildings, shops, and restaurants.
The dock's historic buildings have been preserved and restored, maintaining its unique character. The old warehouses have been converted into luxury apartments and office spaces.
The redevelopment has also included the creation of a new public square, which hosts various events and activities throughout the year. This has helped to bring the community together and create a vibrant atmosphere.
In 2014, the dock was closed for a major refurbishment project, which aimed to improve the dock's facilities and infrastructure. The project included the installation of new mooring systems and the creation of a new marina.
The closure caused some disruption to businesses and residents, but it ultimately led to a more modern and efficient dock. The refurbishment project was completed in 2015, and the dock reopened to the public.
Exploring the Docks
The St Katharine Docks are a popular destination for boat tours, offering a unique perspective on the city's skyline and waterways.
You can take a leisurely boat ride along the docks, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling harbor.
The docks are also home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars, making it a great place to spend an afternoon or evening.
Hidden Oasis in London
I've discovered a hidden oasis in the midst of London's bustling docks. The tranquil atmosphere of St Katharine Docks is a perfect escape from the city's chaos.

Located near Tower Bridge, this picturesque dock is surrounded by historic buildings and offers a glimpse into London's rich maritime past.
One of the dock's most striking features is its beautiful Victorian-era architecture, which has been beautifully preserved and restored.
The dock's tranquil atmosphere is also home to a variety of wildlife, including swans and seagulls that can be seen gliding effortlessly across the water.
Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the dock's picturesque walkways, taking in the sights and sounds of the dock and its surroundings.
The dock's rich history and stunning architecture make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring London's docks.
20 Thoughts on St Katharine Docks
St Katharine Docks is a great spot to grab a bite to eat, with a variety of restaurants to choose from.
The area has undergone significant transformation and now features a mix of old and new architecture. The Dickens Inn, a former brewery dating back to the 18th century, is a great spot to grab a drink.

The docks are a popular leisure destination, with a large hotel and plenty of recreational facilities to enjoy. You can easily spend a day here, exploring the marina and taking in the sights.
The City Quay residential development is home to over 200 privately owned flats, offering stunning views of the marina. The South Quay Estate, originally social housing, now surrounds the south side of the east dock.
The dock is still used by small to medium-sized boats on a daily basis, adding to its charm and character.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of St Katharine Docks?
St Katharine Docks originated from a 12th-century hospital site, which was redeveloped in the early 19th century. Construction began in 1827 on a 23-acre site, marking the beginning of the docks' rich history.
Is St. Katherine's Dock safe?
Yes, St. Katherine's Dock has upgraded its security systems to improve health and safety, including digital two-way radio handsets for seamless communication. This upgrade ensures a secure environment for residents and visitors.
How much does it cost to moor a boat in St. Katherine's Dock?
Moor a boat in St. Katherine's Dock costs approximately £15,750 per year, including VAT, water, and council tax. This annual fee covers all necessary expenses for docking your vessel.
Sources
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_Katharine_Docks
- https://memoirsofametrogirl.com/2016/03/26/st-katharine-docks-london-history-hidden-oasis-restaurants-bars/
- https://www.onboardonline.com/marina/index/st-katharine-docks/
- https://www.lonelyplanet.com/england/london/the-east-end-and-docklands/attractions/st-katharine-docks/a/poi-sig/371729/1322020
- https://alondoninheritance.com/the-thames/st-katherine-docks/
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