The story of the Royal Docks
This is the Royal Docks, a unique waterfront and a growing home for business and culture in Newham, East London.
Once London’s gateway to world trade, today the Royal Docks is one of the UK’s most important regeneration stories. This vast area in the borough of Newham is re-emerging as a commercial and cultural hub of global significance, and an exciting new waterfront.
Timeline
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1855
Victoria Dock opens to relieve London’s crowded and chaotic waterways
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1921
A third dock, King George V, is added to what is now the capital’s main shipping hub
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1939
The Royal Docks operate throughout WWII despite severe damage
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1981
After two decades of decline, the docks close to commercial traffic
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1987
The DLR and London City Airport open, later followed by ExCeL London
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2019
The Royal Docks is reborn as a new commercial centre
Past: 1855
The building of the Royal Docks in 1855 introduced a new world of commerce to the capital. They drew produce and people from all over the world, forging London’s position as a global centre for trade and industry.
Present: today
The Royal Docks is emerging as a prime location for business and as a place to live. Covering over 1,200 acres, this vast area of Newham, East London, is undergoing a stunning revival. It is known for its industrious nature, strong sense of local community, established global connections, and unique expanse of water.
Our unique water
We’re bringing London back to its water. Once the largest enclosed docks in the world, today our 250 acres of water is becoming an exciting shared resource for all.
Our industrious culture
The Royal Docks is a compelling commercial district, going from strength to strength. London’s only Enterprise Zone, our businesses share a spirit of innovation and invention.
Our global connections
From an expanding airport to our international exhibitions centre and connections to China, we are expanding our relationships with the world for the benefit of London and the local area.
Our proud communities
The Royal Docks is part of the youngest and most diverse borough in London. We’re a collection of working and living communities with a proud past and bright future as London’s gateway to the world.
Future: opportunity
The Royal Docks is London’s only Enterprise Zone and the capital’s most ambitious regeneration project. It is set to become an internationally-renowned commercial district and visitor destination, with thousands of new homes, jobs and recreational opportunities in the pipeline.
Find out why you should live and work in the Royal Docks, and learn more about the area's regeneration.
