Docklands / Canary Wharf Area
Isle of Dogs
Until about 1800, the Isle of Dogs was marshy agricultural area often referred to as Stepney Marshes. It was known for its lush pastures. There is a legend saying that it got its name from the Tudor royal hunting dogs which were kept here.
Docklands / Canary Wharf area
Isle of Dogs
Until about 1800, the Isle of Dogs was marshy agricultural area often referred to as Stepney Marshes. It was known for its lush pastures. There is a legend saying that it got its name from the Tudor royal hunting dogs which were kept here. But the same story is told about The Spotted Dog pub at Forest Gate and that was much nearer Epping Forest where the hunting took place. Once the docks were built c. 1800, the waterways of the docks cut off the southern part making it truly an island. (See Foundation Stone of the West India Docks for more details.) Because of bomb damage in World War 2 and the introduction of larger container ships, the docks gradually closed. In the 1980's, a Docklands Development Board was set up and work began at Canary Wharf. (For the origin of the name Canary Wharf see under Jubilee Place Mosaics.) The area has been transformed into a high rise business centre. The old docks have been reduced in area to allow for more building space, but large areas of water remain to give impressive vistas of the modern buildings. Many traces of the old docks and their machinery still survive and some are listed here and on the pages Millwall and Poplar. There is also a rich display of modern art.
The South East England / Greater London regionLondon is the capital city of both the United Kingdom and the constituent country of England. The ancient City of London, to which the name originally belonged, still retains its mediaeval boundaries, but the name "London" has long applied more generally to the whole metropolis which has grown up around it.
An important settlement for around two millennia, London is today one of the world's leading business, financial and cultural centres and its influence in politics, education, entertainment, media, fashion and the arts all contribute to its status as one of the major global cities.
London is the most populous city within city limits in the European Union, with an official population of 7.5 million and has a metropolitan area population of between 12 and 14 million. Its diverse population draws from a wide range of peoples, cultures and religions, speaking over 300 different languages.
It is an international transport hub, with five international airports and a large port. It serves as the largest aviation hub in the world and its main airport, the multi-terminal Heathrow, carries more international passengers than any other airport in the world.
London is a major tourist destination with four world heritage sites, a number of royal parks, and numerous iconic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace and the London Eye. Other attractions include famous institutions such as the British Museum and the National Gallery, along with a multitude of shopping, nightlife and entertainment venues in the West End. London's main geographical feature is the River Thames which runs through the city from the south-west to the east.
