Isle of Dogs: Families will enjoy island life

There are many reasons why the Isle of Dogs is a great place to live. The area has developed a big reputation in the 21st century, starring in films such as Batman Begins and The World Is Not Enough.

Individuals keen on property to rent in the Isle of Dogs will be interested to know more about the area and some of the breathtaking views available of the River Thames.

History of the area

The island, which is bounded on the east, south and west sides by the Thames, was originally called Stebunheath or Stepney Marsh when it was just pastureland.

According to the Island History Trust, some 14,000 people resided in the location during the 1860s, which was a massive increase on the few hundred living there at the turn of the 19th century.

Various industries - such as shipbuilding, engineering, chemical works and food processing - were popular in the area and this helped it to develop.

Schools

The area is located in the London borough of Tower Hamlets - which offers 98 schools in total for children to attend - and housing is predominantly made up of flats.

Primary schools of note include Ballerby's College, Bacon's College and George Green's School, which is on the southern tip of the island. In terms of secondary learning centres, individuals can look at Tower Hamlets College and The John Roan School.

Is transport readily accessible in the Isle of Dogs?

There are a range of different types of transport available for residents looking to get to and from the Isle of Dogs.

The 135, D3 and D7 buses all service the area, while the N550 night bus towards Trafalgar Square and Canning Town also stops four times.

Canary Wharf is the closest underground station on the Jubilee Line, while the Docklands Light Railway runs north-south through the location, stopping at Crossharbour, Heron Quays, Island Gardens, Mudchute and South Quay.

Pedestrians and cyclists can also take advantage of the Thames Path National Trail, while there is also a river boat that can be used.

What can you get up to?

One of the best pastimes for people looking to amuse themselves on the Isle of Dogs is to go on an organised walk.

The North Isle of Dogs and Canary Wharf route takes in a number of sites, including Dock Police Cottages, the Dockmasters House, the West India Quay Warehouses, the Museum of the London Docklands, the Ledger Building and the Floating footbridge. There is also a North Thames to Greenwich option available.

People can visit the Island History Trust, which has a range of photographs and books about how the area has developed over the years.

Cabot Place, adjacent to the Canary Wharf complex, is the nearest shopping complex, while the London Arena holds major sporting and music events.

Families may also be keen to check out the Mudchute Park and Farm, which is one of the largest inner city farms in Europe. 

Posted by Chris Price 

Published 24th July, 2012

© 2012 Estates IT Limited