Wondering if Canary Wharf is right for you? This guide highlights the top reasons to move to Canary Wharf, from its vibrant arts scene and excellent transport links to its abundant green spaces and diverse dining options. Discover what makes this area a standout choice for your next home, whether you’re a professional seeking career opportunities, a family looking for a safe and enriching environment, or someone drawn to the unique waterside living.
Key Takeaways
- Canary Wharf boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, featuring a significant collection of outdoor public art, partnerships with major cultural institutions, and initiatives like Short Story Stations.
- The area includes 16.5 acres of green spaces, such as Jubilee Park and the Crossrail Place Roof Garden, contributing to Canary Wharf’s appeal as a balanced urban environment.
- Canary Wharf is a premier shopping and dining destination with over 300 shops and a wide variety of international cuisines, catering to diverse tastes and preferences.
Vibrant Arts and Culture Scene
Home to London’s most extensive collection of outdoor public art, Canary Wharf showcases over 100 pieces from renowned artists worldwide. As you stroll through the area, you’ll encounter a diverse range of sculptures and installations that add a touch of creativity and inspiration to the surroundings. This impressive collection not only enhances the visual appeal of Canary Wharf but also fosters a strong community feel by bringing art into everyday life.
Beyond its vast public art, Canary Wharf collaborates with top cultural institutions like the Royal Opera House and Royal Shakespeare Company, staging exceptional events. These partnerships have earned the area prestigious awards, including the Christie’s Award for Best Corporate Art Collection & Programme. Regular exhibitions showcase the work of artists from across the globe, making Canary Wharf a cultural hub for both residents and visitors.
Literature lovers will appreciate the Short Story Stations, which offer free printed stories on eco paper in a variety of genres. This unique initiative adds a literary touch to the area, providing moments of entertainment and reflection for those who pass by. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply enjoy cultural activities, Canary Wharf’s vibrant arts scene is sure to captivate and inspire.
Abundant Green Spaces
Not merely a hub of towering skyscrapers and vibrant business activities, Canary Wharf also provides 16.5 acres of beautifully landscaped parks, gardens, and squares. These green spaces provide a refreshing contrast to the urban environment and offer residents plenty of outdoor space to relax and unwind. Jubilee Park, a tree-filled oasis with cascading water features, is perfect for a peaceful retreat amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.
Other notable green spaces include Canada Square Park, known for its lush lawns and vibrant flower beds, and the Crossrail Place Roof Garden, which features exotic plants and an 80-seater amphitheatre for regular theatrical performances. These areas not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of Canary Wharf but also offer venues for community events and recreational activities.
The partnership with the Eden Project further underscores Canary Wharf’s commitment to creating spaces that enhance both nature and people’s wellbeing. With over 1,000 trees and 70,000 seasonal plants spread across its parks and gardens, Canary Wharf is a great place to enjoy the benefits of green space and city living in harmony.
Diverse Dining Options
Culinary enthusiasts will discover a gastronomic heaven in Canary Wharf, offering an eclectic mix of international dining experiences to please all tastes. Some of the options include:
- French cuisine at Plateau
- American dishes at The Big Easy
- Italian flavours at Obicà Mozzarella Bar
- Contemporary robatayaki cuisine at Roka
There’s something for everyone in Canary Wharf.
Classic British dining is well-represented by The Ivy, and Dishoom offers a taste of Bombay with its delectable Indian dishes. For Mediterranean delights, Ibérica is a popular choice, and if Spanish tapas is what you’re after, Boisdale of Canary Wharf is the place to go. All these dining options are conveniently located within walking distance, making Canary Wharf a food lover’s dream come true.
Ground-floor eateries add to the convenience and variety, ensuring you never run out of places to eat and enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a fine dining experience, Canary Wharf’s diverse dining scene caters to all tastes and preferences.
Premier Shopping Destination
As a shopping hub, Canary Wharf is a prime destination, housing over 300 shops, cafés, bars, restaurants, services, and amenities. From high-end boutiques to designer retailers like Mulberry, there’s something for every shopper. The area is home to several malls, each offering a unique shopping experience.
Cabot Place Mall boasts a wide selection of premium stores such as BOSS, Hackett, Montblanc, and Paul Smith, alongside essential services like opticians and dry cleaners. Jubilee Place Mall includes higher-end high-street brands like Claudie Pierlot, COS, L.K. Bennett, and Sandro. With such a diverse range of shops and services, Canary Wharf ensures that all your shopping needs are met in one convenient location.
Commitment to Sustainability
Leading in sustainability efforts, Canary Wharf aspires to be London’s inaugural Plastic Free Community. Since February 2017, more than five million single-use plastic items have been eliminated and recycled. Additionally, over four million coffee cups have been recycled during this time. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to purchasing renewable electricity and transitioning from a linear to a circular economy.
Since February 2017, more than five million single-use plastic items have been eliminated …
The Canary Wharf Group is also actively pursuing net-zero climate goals, demonstrating a strong commitment to the environment and sustainable living. These efforts not only benefit the planet but also enhance the quality of life for residents, making Canary Wharf a forward-thinking and eco-friendly place to live.
Excellent Transport Links
A notable feature of Canary Wharf, located in the London Docklands area of East London, is its superior transport links, ensuring smooth connectivity to Central London and further afield. The Jubilee Line, Elizabeth Line, and Docklands Light Railway (DLR) ensure that residents can easily access the City, Mayfair, and London City Airport. The DLR offers services to London City Airport every 10 minutes, with a journey time of just 18 minutes, making it incredibly convenient for frequent travellers.
The Elizabeth Line offers convenient transportation options for residents and commuters in London. Here are some estimated travel times:
- Heathrow Airport to Canary Wharf: 47 minutes (including a change at Paddington)
- Canary Wharf to Westminster station (via London Underground): approximately 11 minutes
- Canary Wharf to Bond Street (via the Elizabeth Line): around 14 minutes
With approximately 164 train services per day from Canary Wharf to Bond Street, residents enjoy unparalleled transport options.
Ideal for Professionals
Serving as an ideal spot for professionals, Canary Wharf accommodates major tech and finance firms, offering abundant job opportunities. The area is home to over 10,000 businesses, including leading financial organisations like JP Morgan, Barclays, and Morgan Stanley. The presence of key investors and funders such as HSBC and The StartUp Loans Company further enhances its appeal to professionals.
The entrepreneurial environment is fostered by various coworking spaces provided by companies like Regus and Landmark, which are perfect for start-up entrepreneurs. With its bustling business district and proximity to workplaces, Canary Wharf is a great place for young professionals seeking career growth and networking opportunities.
Family-Friendly Environment
Regarded as one of London’s safest residential areas, Canary Wharf boasts minimal crime rates and round-the-clock security. The area is purposefully designed to support modern family life, offering a proactive, nurturing, and ultra-safe environment. Families can enjoy a variety of amenities, including playgrounds, sports fields, and family-friendly art trails.
Harbour Quay offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including:
- Beach-like atmosphere with family-friendly picnic spots and outdoor fitness equipment
- Mini Golf by Craig & Karl
- GoBoat rides
- Children’s Art Trail with 12 artworks and interactive tasks
- Paws on the Wharf art trail with 25 guide dog sculptures
These activities provide fun and engaging outings for all ages.
NOTE
With its combination of safety, community feel, and engaging activities, Canary Wharf is an ideal place for families to thrive. The area offers a high quality of life, ensuring both children and adults have access to enjoyable and enriching experiences.
Modern Residential Buildings
Providing a blend of budget-friendly properties and luxurious apartments, Canary Wharf offers stunning views of London and the Thames. The area has constructed over 11 million sq ft of sustainably certified space, reflecting its commitment to modern and eco-friendly living. Examples of luxurious apartment buildings include One Park Drive, 8 Harbord Square, and 10 Park Drive, each offering unique architectural designs and elegant living spaces.
One Park Drive, designed by Herzog & de Meuron, stands prominently at the dock’s head, while 8 Harbord Square combines urban dockside heritage with Manhattan loft-style living. The new Wood Wharf neighbourhood will feature an eclectic mix of independent retailers, homeware stores, and organic health food shops, further enhancing the residential area. The Vertus development offers 24/7 on-site amenities, high-quality interiors with waterside views, and a strong community feel.
With its diverse range of residential options, Canary Wharf caters to various lifestyles, making it an attractive place for both middle and high-income residents.
Thriving Community Feel
Renowned for its vibrant community atmosphere, Canary Wharf hosts an array of cultural events, street food markets, and entertainment within its parks and squares. Montgomery Square is a vibrant spot for socialising, with street food markets, pop-up ping pong, and minigolf. It is often abuzz with various activities, making it a popular gathering place for residents and visitors alike.
Canada Square Park regularly hosts open-air film screenings and live music events, surrounded by bars and restaurants that create a lively atmosphere. Harbord Square Park includes a popular children’s playground and hosts mindfulness activities such as yoga and dance. With its rapid transformation and integration of living, working, and leisure activities, Canary Wharf continues to foster a strong sense of community and belonging.
Proximity to Central London
A significant perk of residing in Canary Wharf is its closeness to Central London. The quick 35-minute ferry commute from Canary Wharf Pier to Westminster Pier underscores the convenience of living close to the heart of the city.
This accessibility makes it easy for residents to enjoy the best of both worlds: the tranquillity of waterside living and the vibrant energy of Central London.
Unique Waterside Living
Offering a unique waterside lifestyle, Canary Wharf captivates with its stunning views of the River Thames, contributing to the area’s allure. Residents can enjoy a variety of activities along the river, such as brisk walks, waterside jogs, and peaceful moments by the water. Westferry Circus provides scenic views of the River Thames and is perfect for a morning stroll or a lunchtime break amidst seasonal flowers and nearby eateries.
The combination of modern living and serene waterside environments makes Canary Wharf a haven for those seeking a balanced lifestyle. Whether you prefer an active outdoor space or a quiet retreat by the river, Canary Wharf has just what you need.
Summary
In conclusion, Canary Wharf offers a unique blend of modern amenities, vibrant culture, and excellent living conditions. From its rich arts and culture scene to abundant green spaces and diverse dining options, there are countless reasons to consider moving to this dynamic area. The commitment to sustainability, excellent transport links, and thriving community feel further enhance its appeal.
Whether you’re a professional seeking career opportunities, a family looking for a safe and enriching environment, or someone drawn to the unique waterside living, Canary Wharf has something for everyone. Embrace the vibrant lifestyle and make Canary Wharf your new home this year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Canary Wharf a great place to live?
Canary Wharf is a great place to live due to its vibrant arts and culture scene, diverse dining options, excellent transport links, and thriving community feel, catering to various lifestyles.
Are there family-friendly amenities in Canary Wharf?
Canary Wharf offers various family-friendly amenities such as playgrounds, sports fields, and family-friendly art trails, making it an ideal location for families.
What types of dining options are available in Canary Wharf?
Canary Wharf offers a diverse range of dining options, with international cuisines such as French, American, Italian, Japanese, British, Indian, Mediterranean, and Spanish. So there’s something to satisfy every taste.
How is Canary Wharf committed to sustainability?
Canary Wharf is committed to sustainability by striving to become London’s first plastic-free community, eliminating and recycling millions of single-use plastic items, and actively pursuing net-zero climate goals. This demonstrates a strong dedication to environmental responsibility.
What are the transport options in Canary Wharf?
Canary Wharf offers excellent transport options, including the Jubilee Line, Elizabeth Line, and Docklands Light Railway, making it easy to access central London and airports.
