Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The Docklands thrived as a shipping port until the mid-20th century; two big gray
cranes-on-tracks are reminders of the two events that eventually doomed the area. First,
the Blitz of World War II obliterated the Docklands—it was hit by more than 2,000 bombs.
Of course, Hitler's aim was to wipe out this vital industrial area.
Though it survived the Blitz, the Docklands couldn't survive the next hit—when the
shipping industry converted to containers. The large container ships couldn't make it this
far up the shallow Thames, and almost overnight, the industry rapidly shifted to seaports.
In the 1970s, the Docklands became London's poorest area.
• In the left part of the row of warehouses you'll find the...
Museum of London Docklands
This modern and interesting museum, which fills an old sugar warehouse, gives the Dock-
lands historic context. In telling the story of the world's leading 19th-century port, it also
conveys the story of London. It has a nice café, a hip bar, and a great kids' play area. Ride
