Living in Wapping
Nestled on the north bank of the Thames between Tower Bridge and Limehouse, Wapping is defined by its dramatic mix of cobbled streets, historic wharves and warehouse conversions. The area exudes a Dickensian charm, with echoes of its maritime past around every corner.
About Wapping
Once a bustling part of London’s Docklands, Wapping fell into decline after World War II. But the 1980s saw a revival, as artists and developers recognised the potential of its red brick warehouses and riverside views. Galleries like the avant-garde B2 Gallery emerged in repurposed tea and spice warehouses, and landmark conversions such as Olivers Wharf attracted celebrity residents, including Sir Alec Guinness and Cher.
The transformation continued with the regeneration of nearby St Katharine Docks, now home to luxury apartments, a marina, hotels and office space. Today, Wapping’s riverside offers a unique blend of heritage and modern living. Surrounded by handsome brick buildings and cobbled lanes, you’re never far from London’s maritime legacy or its thriving present.
Fact file
- Arctic explorer Hugh Willoughby set sail from the Prospect of Whitby in 1533 in search of the North-East Passage.
- Wapping Old Stairs, Pelican Stairs and Watermen’s Stairs are ancient boat landings, just a few of the many that once lined the Thames.
- The Town of Ramsgate pub sits beside Wapping Old Stairs, once frequented by Captain Bligh and Judge Jefferies.
- Parts of Wapping are built over water and the London Dock was filled in 1969.
Architecture and property
Wapping’s finest homes are found in its riverside warehouse conversions, with Olivers Wharf leading the way as the area’s first redevelopment. Along Wapping Wall, more converted warehouses and factories sit alongside surviving Georgian gems like those at Pier Head, home to residents including TV host Graham Norton.
Set back from the river, you’ll find a mix of 1950s and 1960s local authority housing, such as the 1980s developments near St Katharine Docks and Shadwell Basin and newer schemes like Metropolitan Wharf. The architectural mix gives Wapping a distinctive character, blending historic and modern styles.
Going out
Wapping’s dining scene is quietly impressive. Il Bordello serves classic Italian fare on Wapping High Street, while River View offers Chinese cuisine with outdoor seating. For something more refined, Smith’s of Wapping delivers brasserie style dining with sweeping Thames views. St. Katharine Docks adds an al fresco flair with Bravas (tapas) and Côte (French brasserie). For coffee and cake, White Mulberries is an award-winning independent cafe with marinaside seating.
Wapping’s pubs are steeped in history. The Prospect of Whitby dates back to the 16th century and was once a haunt for pirates and rogues, complete with a pewter-topped bar and ship masts built into its structure. The Town of Ramsgate claims to be the oldest pub on the Thames, and its interior feels like stepping aboard a tea clipper. Turner’s Old Star was built by the painter J.M.W. Turner in 1830 and is another characterful local, named after the artist himself.
Wilton’s Music Hall is a cultural treasure, being the world’s oldest surviving Grand Music Hall. Its faded grandeur, exposed brick and gas lamps set the scene for theatre, cabaret and pop-up events. Across the highway in Shadwell, the Jamboree at Cable Street Studios hosts jazz, folk and Americana nights in an intimate courtyard setting.
Local amenities
For groceries, there’s a large Waitrose on Thomas More Street. For something more artisanal, pop in to Wapping Sourdough on Arrival Square and try their top-tier loaves and pizza slices.
Fitness options include the John Orwell Sports Centre, which features a modern gym, indoor and outdoor courts and a full class schedule. Fitness First also has a gym and pool nearby.
Tobacco Dock has evolved into a major events venue, hosting a range of events from food festivals to rooftop film screenings. For outdoor adventure and to make the most of Wapping’s riverside setting, try Shadwell Basin Outdoor Activity Centre. The centre offers sailing, rowing, canoeing, powerboating, climbing and high ropes.
Wapping is also perfectly placed for exploring London’s landmarks. Tower Bridge features high-level walkways and Victorian engine rooms, while the Tower of London showcases the Crown Jewels and centuries of royal history. HMS Belfast is a floating museum, offering a glimpse into life aboard a WWII warship.
Green spaces
In Wapping, breathing space is mainly provided by the Thames Path, but there are a few green spaces and good river views when visiting the Waterside Gardens and Hermitage Riverside and Memorial Garden. Inland are the little green sanctuaries of Wapping Rose Gardens and Wapping Woods. Towards the eastern boundary of Wapping is the King Edward Memorial Park, where there are kids’ play areas, tennis courts and football pitches.