Published: 14 June 2021
After a long, difficult year, the world is finally starting to open up again.
The COVID-19 pandemic forced the closure of shops, tourist spaces and, of course, the University.
We’ve been delighted over the last few weeks to see students coming back to campus for lectures as well as to use our services.
For one thing, we want to share with you the wonderful area that the University of Sunderland in London is based in.
Now, finally, we’re able to start doing that. So, take a look through some of our recommendations for things to do in Canary Wharf.
The basics
Although some of you will be coming back to campus after quite a while away, others may never have set foot in our area.
So, first things first, what is Canary Wharf?
You probably know of it as the busy, beating heart of London’s financial district.
It’s famous for huge skyscrapers housing some of the world’s most successful companies, including Barclays, Citigroup, HSBC, KPMG and more.
It’s also home to the third tallest building in London, One Canada Square.
Just spending some time wandering around the area, looking up at the buildings and getting inspired is a pretty great way to spend your time.
World-class museum
What if you want to grab some culture and learn more about London and the history of the city?
Try the Museum of London Docklands. This completely free museum displays collections all the way from the original Roman settlement of Londinium to the modern city.
Based in a 200-year-old warehouse, you’ll see artefacts and hear the stories of our capital through trade, migration and business.
Green space in the sky
When you’re surrounded by all these amazing buildings, it’s easy to think you’ll never see any nature at all.
But did you know that there’s a whole garden on top of Crossrail Place in the middle of Canary Wharf?
Complete with its own street food market, you can spend a lovely lunch hour taking in the greenery and beautiful geometric architecture.
It’s divided into sections representing the best of eastern and western nature, from ferns to bamboos.
Foodie heaven
If you’re coming from Bank on the DLR towards the University, you’ll see a long, flat building on your left with a big and very famous sign: Billingsgate Market.
This is the place for fish sellers and one of the most well-known spots for anyone who loves food.
The market sells over 25,000 tonnes of fish a year and houses 98 stands, 30 shops and two very good cafes.
There is almost no limit to the fish you can buy at Billingsgate, so it’s well worth your time having a look around.
On a shoppers side note, make sure you look for the huge shopping centre hidden underneath the whole of Canary Wharf.
With everything from high-end fashion to amazing places to eat, it’s worth taking a wander around.
Of course, we think the best thing about Canary Wharf is that it’s home to the University of Sunderland in London!
If you haven’t had a chance to come to campus yet, make sure you plan a bit ahead so you can take in the sights of our little area of London too.
We'd love to hear about your experiences of Canary Wharf.
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