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Royal Docks London

4.6
·491k reviews·, United Kingdom

A regenerated waterside district offering modern attractions like the IFS Cloud Cable Car and unique experiences such as igloo boat dining.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Royal Docks - Image 1

Royal Docks London

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A regenerated waterside district offering modern attractions like the IFS Cloud Cable Car and unique experiences such as igloo boat dining.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Soar through the sky and experience London differently, 90 metres above the River Thames!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Cable Car Views 🚡

Ride the IFS Cloud Cable Car for stunning cityscapes, especially magical at sunset or night.

Book Igloo Boats Early 🥳

Popular igloo boat experiences with fondue are a hit; book ahead to secure your spot.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

IFS Cloud Cable Car

IFS Cloud Cable Car

Royal Docks

Soar 90 meters above the Thames for breathtaking panoramic views of London's skyline.

Instagram
Skuna Boats Igloo Experience

Skuna Boats Igloo Experience

Royal Docks

Enjoy a unique fondue experience while floating in a glowing igloo boat on the water.

TikTok
Royal Docks Waterfront

Royal Docks Waterfront

Royal Docks

Stroll along the regenerated waterfront, offering a peaceful escape with modern architecture and waterside dining.

Reddit
Open Water Swimming

Open Water Swimming

Royal Docks

Take a refreshing dip in designated open water swimming areas, a unique urban aquatic experience.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for Iconic Views

To experience the best of the Royal Docks, aim for off-peak hours. Weekday mornings or late afternoons offer fewer crowds for cable car rides and waterfront strolls. Consider booking popular activities like igloo boat experiences in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment. TikTok

Getting Around the Docks

While the DLR offers quick access to central London from the Royal Docks, exploring the area itself is best done on foot or by utilizing the IFS Cloud Cable Car for unique perspectives. InstagramReddit Many residents find a car unnecessary for daily commutes within the docks, relying on efficient public transport. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour views
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
City lights sparkle
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Perfect date spot, girls day out, family day out spot in London Canary Wharf 📍 with @Skuna Boats ⚓️ @Pingfluence #pingfluence #skunaboats #iglooboat #prinvite
@alaniscooperx
387.3K likes • 3.9M views

Cable Car Views 🚡

Ride the IFS Cloud Cable Car for stunning cityscapes, especially magical at sunset or night. Instagram+1

Book Igloo Boats Early 🥳

Popular igloo boat experiences with fondue are a hit; book ahead to secure your spot. TikTok

How to Dock a 75ft Yacht without Looking back | 👀 Ever wondered how captains dock massive yachts with pinpoint accuracy? Today, I’m showing you the step-by-step secrets for docking an 75ft beast! This...
@captain.andyx
78.7K likes • 1.1M views
Soar through the sky and experience London differently, 90 metres above the River Thames! Travel from the Greenwich Peninsula to the Royal Docks in London’s only cable car and soak in magnificent view...
visitlondon
7.3K likes • 234.8K views

Waterfront Strolls 🌊

Enjoy leisurely walks along the Royal Docks, taking in the modern architecture and waterside ambiance. Reddit

Open Water Swim 🌊

Experience urban swimming in the Royal Docks; check for seasonal availability and loop distances. Reddit

the prettiest sunset london viewsss🥹🌅so magical ✨ highly recommend doing this once!! @ifslondoncablecar @transportforlondon 🤍 currently £6! 📍 IFS London Cable Car Start from North Greenwhich: Edmund...
halalgirliesldn
19.5K likes • 584.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Cable Car Views 🚡

Ride the IFS Cloud Cable Car for stunning cityscapes, especially magical at sunset or night. Instagram+1

Book Igloo Boats Early 🥳

Popular igloo boat experiences with fondue are a hit; book ahead to secure your spot. TikTok

Waterfront Strolls 🌊

Enjoy leisurely walks along the Royal Docks, taking in the modern architecture and waterside ambiance. Reddit

Open Water Swim 🌊

Experience urban swimming in the Royal Docks; check for seasonal availability and loop distances. Reddit

DLR for Commutes 🚊

The DLR provides efficient links to central London, making a car less essential for many. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors often praise the Royal Docks for its modern waterfront, unique attractions like the IFS Cloud Cable Car and Skuna Boats, and its refreshing open water swimming opportunities. Some find the area still developing its full potential, with a desire for more diverse evening entertainment and dining options compared to central London. Reddit

What People Like

Unique cable car views
Igloo boat dining
Open water swimming

What People Dislike

Developing atmosphere
Limited nightlife

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Royal Docks are well-connected by public transport. The Docklands Light Railway (DLR) serves multiple stations within the area, including Royal Docks, Pontoon Dock, and Custom House, offering direct links to central London like Bank in about 20-25 minutes. Reddit The IFS Cloud Cable Car also connects the Greenwich Peninsula to the Royal Docks, providing a scenic arrival. Instagram London City Airport (LCY) is conveniently located nearby, with Silverworks Island just a short drive away. Instagram

Exploring the Royal Docks is straightforward. You can walk along the waterfront, use the DLR for longer distances, or take the IFS Cloud Cable Car for unique aerial views. Instagram While some residents find a car useful for specific needs like shopping or day trips, it's not essential for navigating within the docks due to good public transport links. Reddit

The IFS Cloud Cable Car is easily accessible. If you're coming from the O2 Arena or North Greenwich Underground station, it's just a 5-minute walk. Instagram You can also arrive at the Royal Docks via the DLR and then make your way to the cable car terminals. Instagram

Parking availability can vary in the Royal Docks. While some areas might have parking, it's advisable to check specific locations beforehand. For many visitors, relying on public transport like the DLR or Uber Boat is a more convenient option. Reddit

Yes, the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers service operates on the River Thames and can be a scenic way to reach various piers near the Royal Docks. It's recommended to check their routes and schedules for the most convenient stops. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

As of recent information, a single journey on the IFS Cloud Cable Car is around £12. Instagram It's always a good idea to check the official IFS Cloud Cable Car website or Transport for London (TfL) for the most up-to-date pricing and any potential discounts. Instagram

Yes, it is highly recommended to book the Skuna Boats igloo experience in advance, as these unique floating fondue sessions are very popular and tend to sell out, especially during weekends and holidays. TikTok

The Royal Docks waterfront itself is a public area and generally free to access for walking and enjoying the scenery. Reddit However, specific attractions or activities within the docks, like the IFS Cloud Cable Car or Skuna Boats, will have their own ticket prices. TikTokInstagram

Open water swimming in the Royal Docks is typically available during warmer months, often from late spring through early autumn. Specific dates and times, including the availability of different swimming loops (e.g., 700m or 750m), can vary, so it's best to check with the local providers for current schedules. Reddit

Yes, you can usually purchase tickets for the Uber Boat directly from the staff working at the docks. This is a convenient option if you decide to use the service spontaneously. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The Royal Docks offers a variety of activities. You can enjoy panoramic views from the IFS Cloud Cable Car, Instagram have a unique dining experience on a Skuna Boat igloo, TikTok take a refreshing open water swim, Reddit or simply stroll along the modern waterfront. The area is also developing with new amenities and event spaces. Reddit

Yes, the Royal Docks can be a great destination for families. The IFS Cloud Cable Car offers exciting views for all ages, Instagram and the igloo boat experience is also enjoyed by teenagers and families. TikTok The open waterfront provides space for children to explore, though supervision is always advised. Reddit

The IFS Cloud Cable Car provides spectacular 360-degree views of London from 90 meters above the River Thames. You'll see iconic landmarks, the Olympic Park, and the expansive docklands. Instagram Riding it at night offers a different, magical perspective with the city lights. Instagram

Open water swimming in the Royal Docks offers a unique urban aquatic experience. The water temperature can be warm, and there are designated loops for swimming, such as 700m or 750m. Reddit It's a popular spot for training and recreational swimming, with good facilities available. Reddit

The Royal Docks area is continuously developing its dining and drinking scene. You can find waterside cafes and restaurants, and unique experiences like the fondue in the Skuna Boats igloos. TikTok For a wider variety, nearby areas like Canary Wharf offer extensive options. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The IFS Cloud Cable Car offers incredible aerial perspectives for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset. Instagram The modern architecture along the waterfront provides striking urban shots. Reddit Consider capturing reflections in the water or the contrast between the old dock structures and new developments. Reddit

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography along the waterfront. Instagram Nighttime also provides a dramatic backdrop with the city lights, particularly when viewed from the cable car. Instagram

Yes, taking photos from the Skuna Boats, especially the igloo boats, can offer unique angles and a cozy atmosphere for your shots. TikTok The reflections on the water and the surrounding dockland scenery can make for interesting compositions. TikTok

Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted in public areas of the Royal Docks. However, for commercial photography or drone usage, you may need to seek specific permissions. It's always wise to be mindful of private property and individuals. Reddit

A versatile lens, such as a wide-angle zoom, is great for capturing the expansive waterfront and cityscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or capturing distant landmarks from the cable car. Instagram A tripod can be beneficial for low-light photography at night. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Royal Docks offers several engaging activities for families. The IFS Cloud Cable Car provides thrilling aerial views that kids will love, making it a memorable part of any visit. Instagram The Skuna Boats igloo experience is also a hit with families, offering a fun and interactive fondue session on the water. TikTok The open waterfront areas provide space for children to move around, and the general atmosphere is family-friendly. Reddit

When planning your visit, consider the DLR for easy transport to and from the area, as it's often more convenient than driving with children. Reddit Pack snacks and drinks, and be prepared for walking, as exploring the waterfront is a key part of the experience. Reddit The novelty of the cable car and the unique igloo boats are sure to keep younger visitors entertained and create lasting family memories. TikTok

couples

For a romantic outing, the Royal Docks offers a unique blend of modern charm and intimate experiences. The Skuna Boats igloo experience is a perfect choice for couples, offering a private and cozy setting for a fondue dinner on the water, complete with stunning views. TikTok Riding the IFS Cloud Cable Car at sunset or night provides breathtaking panoramic vistas of the London skyline, creating a magical atmosphere for a date. Instagram+1

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, perhaps stopping for a drink at a waterside bar. The area's contemporary architecture and tranquil waterside setting provide a peaceful backdrop for conversation and connection. Reddit Consider combining a cable car ride with a dinner in one of the local restaurants or a unique igloo boat experience for a complete and unforgettable romantic day or evening. TikTok

Budget Travelers

While some attractions in the Royal Docks have a cost, there are ways to enjoy the area on a budget. The waterfront itself is free to explore, offering pleasant walks and views of the modern architecture and the Thames. Reddit Taking the Uber Boat can be a more affordable and scenic way to travel along the river compared to other transport options, and you can purchase tickets directly at the docks. TikTokReddit

Consider visiting the IFS Cloud Cable Car during off-peak hours or looking for any potential deals or off-peak pricing. Instagram While the igloo boats are a splurge, simply enjoying the ambiance of the docks and utilizing public transport like the DLR can be very cost-effective. Reddit Many of the best experiences here involve appreciating the urban landscape and the river, which are accessible without significant expense. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The IFS Cloud Cable Car Experience

The IFS Cloud Cable Car, formerly known as the Emirates Air Line, offers a unique way to traverse the River Thames, connecting the Greenwich Peninsula to the Royal Docks. Instagram Soaring up to 90 meters high, it provides unparalleled panoramic views of London's iconic skyline, including the O2 Arena, Canary Wharf, and the historic docklands. Instagram+1 It's a popular choice for both tourists and locals looking for a different perspective of the city. Instagram

Travelers often highlight the magical experience of riding the cable car at sunset or after dark, when the city lights create a dazzling spectacle. Instagram+1 The journey takes approximately 10 minutes one way, offering ample time to soak in the scenery. Instagram It's easily accessible from North Greenwich Underground station and the Royal Docks DLR stations, making it a convenient addition to a day of exploration. Instagram

While the views are the main draw, the cable car also serves as a practical transport link, especially for those attending events at the O2 or exploring the Royal Docks area. Instagram It's a memorable experience that adds a touch of adventure to any London itinerary. Instagram

Open Water Swimming in the Royal Docks

The Royal Docks have emerged as a surprising hub for open water swimming, offering a refreshing urban aquatic adventure. Reddit Designated swimming areas allow participants to enjoy the waters of the docks, with various loop distances available, such as 700m or 750m, catering to different fitness levels. Reddit The water temperature can be surprisingly warm, especially during summer months, making for a pleasant swim. Reddit

Swimmers often praise the excellent facilities and the unique experience of swimming in the heart of the city. Reddit It's a popular spot for training for longer distance swims and for those seeking an invigorating outdoor activity. Reddit However, it's important to note that swimming is seasonal and dependent on weather conditions, so checking availability and safety guidelines with the local providers is crucial before planning your dip. Reddit

While the Royal Docks offer a fantastic swimming opportunity, some visitors express a desire for daily access or the consistent availability of longer swimming courses. Reddit Despite these minor points, the open water swimming in the Royal Docks remains a standout activity for those looking to experience the area in a truly active and memorable way. Reddit

Skuna Boats: Igloos on the Water

Skuna Boats offers a truly unique and memorable experience in the Royal Docks with their popular igloo boat rentals. TikTok These charming, glowing igloos provide a cozy and intimate setting for guests to enjoy a private dining experience on the water, often featuring fondue. TikTok It's an ideal activity for date nights, family outings, or even corporate events, offering a novel way to see the docklands. TikTok

The igloo boats are equipped for comfort and enjoyment, allowing passengers to relax and savor their meal while gently cruising through the docks. TikTok The novelty of dining in a transparent, heated igloo on the water, especially as dusk settles and the city lights begin to twinkle, makes for a highly photogenic and enjoyable experience. TikTok Booking in advance is essential due to their popularity. TikTok

This innovative offering transforms the Royal Docks into a destination for unique leisure and entertainment, providing a distinct alternative to traditional dining or sightseeing. TikTok It’s a testament to the evolving use of the docklands, blending leisure with the urban landscape. TikTok

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