Walking Tour: One of the most planned for spaces in the world

How has road-building, new rail lines, sewer systems and the airport changed how we see the buildings that were already in the Royal Docks? Over a three-hour guided walk, artist Eloise Hawser will discuss how various cycles of infrastructure (‘the four Rs’: river, road, rails and runways) have impacted the area over time. She will share the history of the docks before discussing the future plans and infrastructure of Albert Island, which is due to be transformed into a new marina and boatyard.

This walk is inspired by and delves further into themes raised by Making Space, a series of large-scale outdoor artworks by artist Jessie Brennan that look at the historical, social, political and economic factors that have impacted this area of London and shaped its identity. There are two other walks taking place in August. Writer and journalist Owen Hatherley explores the changing architecture of the Royal Docks on 7 August, while on 14 August, poet and playwright Inua Ellams will guide people through a series of activities that respond to Brennan’s work. Learn more about Making Space and find all four artworks around the Royal Docks here.

Making Space and the associated walks programme has been curated by UP Projects and commissioned by the Royal Docks Team.

All events and activities will adhere to the Government’s COVID-19 social distancing guidelines. Regular updates are also provided to organisers to ensure all events and activities are adhering to the most recent Government Coronavirus guidance and restrictions