October 31st 2024.
The Royal Docks is a thriving area that is quickly becoming a popular spot for first-time buyers. If you've never had the chance to visit this bustling district, it's time to head on down and see what all the hype is about. You might even find yourself tempted to make this your new home.
Not only is the Royal Docks a newly established residential and business hub, but it's also a lively leisure destination. With a variety of options such as riverside bars, global cuisine, bouldering, and open water swimming, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Originally the largest enclosed docks in the world, the Royal Docks became unsustainable in the 1960s due to the introduction of massive container ships that couldn't navigate the Thames. The docks closed in 1981, leading to a period of high unemployment and social issues. However, the area has since undergone a remarkable transformation and is now thriving once again. Located just east of Canary Wharf, it is one of the most extensive regeneration projects in the country and London's only Enterprise Zone, offering tax incentives to businesses to encourage investment.
The Royal Docks is also home to notable landmarks such as the Mayor of London's office, City Hall, which relocated to the striking Crystal building in 2022. The area also boasts the Excel London exhibition centre, London City Airport, and the University of East London, which has been crowned University of the Year for Teaching Quality and is ranked first in London for student experience. With an average age of 32, the Royal Docks also has the second-youngest population in London, making it an attractive location for first-time buyers.
In addition to its desirable location and affordable housing options, some developers also offer cash incentives to encourage buyers to move in. These incentives can be worth thousands of pounds and help cover the costs of relocating and setting up a new home.
Thanks to improved transport links, the Royal Docks is easily accessible from anywhere in the capital. With 11 DLR stations, the Elizabeth Line at Custom House, Uber Boats from Royal Wharf Pier, and the IFS Cloud cable car to Greenwich Peninsula, getting around the area is a breeze. And for those who prefer to stay on solid ground, the Silvertown Tunnel, set to open next year, will provide another convenient way to cross the river.
But don't just take our word for it, the residents of Royal Docks are also happy with their choice to move here. In fact, many have taken to online forums to share their positive experiences. One Reddit user wrote, "This is a great place for young professionals and families, with a good vibe and lots going on." Another resident of Royal Wharf raved, "The set up of the Royal Wharf is fantastic – a bustling "mini village" with everything from hairdressers and dentists to local coffee shops and our own spa… The community and people I have met have been incredible too."
With so much to offer, there's no denying that the Royal Docks is a fantastic place to live. And if you're considering making it your new home, here's everything you need to know about the area.
Best of Royal Docks
Looking for the best pubs, cafes, restaurants, or green spaces in the Royal Docks? Look no further! The Windjammer, with its stunning river views and proximity to the Thames Barrier, is a favorite among locals. For a unique experience, check out The Sundown bar aboard Sunborn London, a floating superyacht hotel. And for a taste of local cuisine, be sure to visit Galyons Royal Docks, a pub housed in a Grade II-listed building.
If you're in need of a caffeine fix, head to Little Hudson Café, Nani Café, or Well Bean community cafe. And for a delicious meal, try the pizzas at Heroica Lounge, Middle Eastern fare at Kaboom Lounge, or authentic Thai food at Nakhon Thai.
When you need a break from city life, head to one of the Royal Docks' green spaces. Thames Barrier Park and Lyle Park are both popular spots for a breath of fresh air and a peaceful stroll.
For those who like to stay active, there are plenty of options in the Royal Docks. Try One Element Docklands for open-air fitness in Thames Barrier Park, Rise Climbing for rock climbing and bouldering, or Sportsdock at UEL, which is open to the public.
And for those who love watersports, WakeUp and Love Open Water at Royal Docks Dock offer wakeboarding and paddleboarding experiences.
Looking to get creative? Check out Art In The Dock for art and dance classes or Bonbon Pottery Café for a unique pottery experience.
There's no better place to try some watersports than the Royal Docks. And if you're looking for something fun to do, here's what's on in the area:
What's On
Royal Victoria Dock Market, Oct 31 to Nov 3: A new market with a spooky Halloween theme.
Victoria Dock Parkrun: A weekly event held every Saturday at 9am.
Royal Wharf Market: A street food market takes place on the fourth Friday of the month, and a mixed market showcasing arts, crafts, and food is held on the second Sunday.
The Friends Experience, London Excel, until February 2, 2025: Celebrate the 30th anniversary of the beloved TV show by immersing yourself in recreated sets.
What's New in Royal Docks
Interested in living in the Royal Docks? Here are some of the latest developments in the area:
1. Riverscape
The final 52 one, two, and three-bedroom flats in the waterfront Latham Building at Riverscape have just been launched. These homes offer stunning views, large windows, and balconies to fully enjoy the surroundings. Residents also have access to Royal Wharf's amenities, including a sky lounge, concierge, clubhouse with a gym, pool, sauna, and jacuzzi. Prices start at £430,000. More information can be found at riverscape.co.uk.
2. East River Wharf
Located just a short walk from West Silvertown station, these one, two, and three-bedroom shared ownership flats offer full access to Royal Wharf's facilities. All homes come with balconies and fully-equipped kitchens with Siemens appliances. Currently, there is a £2,000 cash contribution for those who reserve before October 31. Prices start at £96,875 for a 25% share of £387,500. More information can be found at landgah.com.
3. The Silverton
These private flats are move-in ready and offer one, two, and three-bedroom options with balconies, terraces, or winter gardens. Residents also have access to a ninth-floor roof terrace and a courtyard garden. Pontoon Dock station is just a six-minute walk away, and the river and Thames Barrier Park are within easy reach. Homes are ready to move into, and interior design packages worth up to £25,000 are available. Prices start at £350,000. More information can be found at fairview.co.uk.
4. Shared Ownership at The Silverton
For those interested in shared ownership, one, two, and three-bedroom flats are available within the same development and are set to be completed next year. These homes offer the same high standard as their private counterparts and come with plenty of storage and private outdoor space. Prices start at £96,875 for a 25% share of £387,500. More information can be found at Aster.
5. Royal Eden Docks
With 262 affordable homes, Royal Eden Docks is an excellent option for those looking for more affordable housing in the area. These one, two, and three-bedroom homes are located within the larger development and are set to be completed soon. Prices start at £96,875 for a 25% share of £387,500. More information can be found at Aster.
If you're a first-time buyer looking for a vibrant and thriving community, then look no further than Royal Docks. This area has so much to offer, from its established residential and business district to its exciting leisure destination. You'll find everything here, from trendy riverside bars and global cuisine to activities like bouldering and open water swimming.
The history of Royal Docks is fascinating. Once the largest enclosed docks in the world, it became unsustainable in the 1960s due to the size of the container ships that were unable to navigate the Thames. This led to its closure in 1981, causing major unemployment and social issues. However, fast forward to today, and the area is thriving once again. As one of the largest regeneration schemes in the country and London's only Enterprise Zone, Royal Docks offers tax concessions to businesses to encourage investment.
This area has also attracted major establishments, such as the Mayor of London's office at City Hall, the renowned Excel London exhibition centre, London City Airport, and the University of East London. In fact, the university has been crowned University Of The Year for Teaching Quality by the Times and Sunday Times, and it's also ranked first in London for student experience in the latest National Student Survey.
But it's not just about work and education in Royal Docks. The transportation options have greatly improved, making it easily accessible from anywhere in the capital. With 11 DLR stations, the Elizabeth Line at Custom House, Uber Boats from Royal Wharf Pier, and the IFS Cloud cable car that runs to Greenwich Peninsula, getting around is a breeze. And if heights aren't your thing, don't worry, as the Silvertown Tunnel will be opening next year to provide another way to cross the river.
But what makes Royal Docks truly special is its community. With over 36,000 new homes being built, a quarter of which are already underway or complete, this area is attracting a young and diverse population. The combination of lifestyle, proximity to Canary Wharf and the City, and affordability is a major draw for first-time buyers. Plus, some developers even offer cash incentives to help with the cost of moving in and setting up a new home.
When it comes to leisure and entertainment, Royal Docks has it all. From its haunted cafe to a new market launching with a spooky Halloween special, there's always something going on. And with a variety of pubs, bars, cafes, and restaurants to choose from, you'll never run out of options. The area also boasts beautiful green spaces, state-of-the-art gyms and sports centers, and even a creative space for art and dance classes.
If you're a fan of watersports, then Royal Docks is the place to be. With options like wakeboarding and paddleboarding at WakeUp and Love Open Water at Royal Docks Dock, you'll have plenty of opportunities to try something new and exciting.
For those looking to buy a home in Royal Docks, there are many options available. From the luxurious and modern Riverscape development to the conveniently located East River Wharf, there's something for everyone. And for those looking for shared ownership, there are options like The Silverton and Royal Eden Docks, making owning a home in this area even more affordable.
But don't just take our word for it. Residents of Royal Docks have expressed their love for the community and their homes. From the bustling "mini village" atmosphere to the friendly and welcoming people, it's clear that this area is a truly special place to live.
So why not come and visit Royal Docks for yourself? You might just find yourself tempted to make it your new home. And with so much to offer, it's no wonder that this area is quickly becoming one of London's most sought-after destinations.
[This article has been trending online recently and has been generated with AI. Your feed is customized.]
[Generative AI is experimental.]
