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Cooler Places in the Royal Docks
Looking for somewhere to cool off? Across the Royal Docks you’ll find indoor spaces and shaded areas in green spaces where you can take a break from the heat.
These spaces may help reduce discomfort or the health risks of warm weather. However, they are not designed to support vulnerable individuals on hot days, or as a medical care substitute if someone is unwell from overheating. Read the Mayor of London’s guidance on keeping cool on hot days.
Places to keep cool locally:
Beckton Community Centre
Beckton Community Centre offers a modern indoor space where you can sit, cool down and take a break from the heat. Recently refurbished, it’s bright, welcoming and accessible, with regular community activities you can drop into. Give them a call to find out what’s on - 020 3373 4993.
Beckton Community Centre, 14 East Ham Manor Way, Beckton, E6 5NG
City Hall
Open to the public during the week, City Hall offers a large, air‑conditioned indoor space where you can get out of the sun. While you're there visit London’s Kitchen Café on the ground floor for breakfast, homecooked lunch, a cold drink or a cuppa coffee. There’s also free Wi‑Fi.
City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, E16 1ZE
London’s Kitchen Café, City Hall
Itchycoo Park
If you’re looking for an outdoor space to seek some shade head to Itchycoo Park. Located within Beckton District Park South, it offers seating in lush green shaded spots surrounded by trees.
The pond has been restored by local volunteers and is now a lively habitat, where you’ll often spot parakeets, woodpeckers, terrapins and more.
Itchycoo Park, Andrewes Gardens, Beckton, E6 5TG
Immerse LDN
Immerse LDN is a great option if you want something to do fun while staying cool. Inside, you can explore immersive exhibitions like Cleopatra: The Experience, House of Dreamers and Timewalk, all designed to be interactive and engaging in a comfortable indoor setting.
Immerse LDN, Excel Waterfront, Royal Victoria Dock, E16 1XL
Libraries
More comfortable spaces to refresh and recharge include Beckton Library, Canning Town Library and North Woolwich Library. Sit, study, use free Wi‑Fi, access public computers or simply enjoy some quiet time with a book.
- Beckton Library, 1 Kingsford Way, Beckton, London, E6 5JQ
- Canning Town Library, 18 Rathbone Market, Barking Road, Canning Town, London, E16 4HA
- North Woolwich Library, 5 Pier Parade, North Woolwich, London, E16 2LJ
Thames Clipper
Hop on the Thames Clipper from Royal Wharf Pier for a change of scene and a chance to cool off on the river. Sit on the top deck to enjoy the breeze as you travel along the Thames.
Thames Clipper Royal Wharf Pier, Bonnet Street, Royal Wharf, E16 2SZ
Waterfront Kitchen and Bar
At Waterfront Kitchen and Bar, you can take a break inside or sit outside by the dock and catch a breeze off the water. The menu is street food inspired, packed with flavour. From juicy tacos to succulent chicken wings, it's a great spot to grab a bite and take a break from the intense heatwave.
Waterfront Kitchen and Bar, Excel Waterfront, Royal Victoria Dock, E16 1XL
Find out more
The places featured above are just some of the cool spaces available in the Royal Docks. To find more cool spaces, libraries and community venues across the capital, explore the Mayor of London's Cool Spaces map and discover somewhere to take a break from the heat wherever you are in London.
