Description
The Museum of London Docklands is one of the best things to do with kids in West India Quay, offering a fascinating deep dive into the history of the River Thames. As a premier museum located in a historic warehouse, it provides families with a unique chance to explore centuries of trade, slavery, and wartime stories through immersive, child-friendly displays. It is a fantastic destination for parents seeking an educational and engaging day out in East London.
General admission to the museum is free, though pre-booking a timed entry slot is strongly recommended to guarantee access during busy periods. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket, with prices starting from £12 for adults. Concessions and family discounts are available, providing excellent value for a comprehensive cultural experience.
If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids, the Museum of London Docklands offers a perfect balance of history and play. Its interactive galleries and regular family-focused events ensure that visitors of all ages stay engaged throughout their visit.
Detailed Inventory: Must-See Exhibits
- 19th-century Thames waterman’s boat: A rare vessel used for moving goods and people across the river.
- The "Docklands at War" shelter recreation: A simulated space showing life during air raids.
- Ceramic shards from the Thames foreshore: Examples of items found by modern-day "mudlarks."
- Victorian spice crates: Original wooden crates used in the busy warehouses of the 1800s.
- Slave trade account books: Primary historical records documenting the human cost of the sugar trade.
- Ship models of East Indiamen: Highly detailed replicas used for trade route planning.
- A WWII ARP warden’s uniform: Personal protective equipment worn during the Blitz.
- The "Sailortown" blacksmith’s anvil: A tactile piece of early industrial gear.
- 17th-century merchant’s gold signet ring: A personal accessory recovered from the riverbank.
- Canary Wharf construction photographs: Visual documentation of the area’s massive modern transformation.
Beyond the Main Attraction
- Canary Wharf: A short walk across the footbridge, offering modern parks, shopping, and year-round family events.
- Crossrail Place Roof Garden: A beautiful, indoor garden that provides a quiet, green escape in the middle of the city.
- Thames Path Walk: Enjoy a scenic stroll along the river, perfect for spotting boats and river wildlife.
- Billingsgate Market Area: Explore the nearby historic wharf areas which have transformed into vibrant social hubs.
- Island Gardens: A short DLR trip away, offering the best views of the Greenwich skyline and the Cutty Sark.
New for 2026
- River of Life: A new seasonal gallery exploring how the Thames ecology has changed from the industrial era to the present day.
- Docklands Pioneers: A portrait exhibition showcasing the families who built the modern Docklands area.
- The Great Fire of the Docks: A 2026 retrospective on the 19th-century warehouse fires that reshaped the skyline.
- Digital Foreshore Tour: An augmented reality experience allowing families to "find" virtual artifacts on their phones throughout the museum.
- Maritime Storytelling Sessions: Weekly live-hosted sessions focused on famous river legends and explorers.
Events: For more upcoming events please visit here.
1.49 miles
