Museum of London Docklands: A Must-See Hidden Treasure

Have a fascination for exploring the pasts of various cities in England?

Then, London is one of the best cities for exploration as it is rich in history and culture.

Ranging from the pasts of various rivers to widespread docklands, this city has much to offer to various historical enthusiasts.

Various museums in London are proof of this. And, one of the unmissable destinations among them is the Museum of London Docklands.

Yes, it is not only the museum that treasures the antiquities of the Roman era.

Also, it beautifully presents the historical belongings and information of the period between the after-Roman era and the present era to the interested people.

It’s a hidden treasure of London, skipping which will make you miss one of the most vital parts of London.

Wanna explore its past stories, exhibits, and attractions in detail? Okay! Then let’s delve deep into it. After all, it’s a great gem worth discovering. 

Museum of London Docklands – An Overview Of Its History: 

Dated back to 2003, this historical museum was once a 19th-century warehouse. This warehouse was beautifully restored and taken care of.

This Museum is known as one of the wings of the London Museum. It is directly related to the historical existence of the city’s river, Thames.

Also, the Museum of London Docklands is somewhat responsible for giving shape to the history of London. 

Museum of London Docklands – Its Permanent Exhibits: 

1. London’s River: 

In this exhibit, you will get to know how the River Thames is actively responsible for the city’s uplifting.

It has served its purpose in this respect since the prehistoric era and is continuing with it.

Here you will get to see various documents and other hard displays that will make the entire concept clear before you.

These objects are –

• Archaeological finds.
• Maps.
• Artworks, etc. 

2. Sailor Town:

Here in this exhibit, you will know everything about the people of the ancient time, when the Museum of London Docklands was established.

The people of that time about whom the exhibit mostly highlights are –

• Sailors.
• Traders.
• Immigrants, etc. 

You can explore the recreated streets of those times. Also, you will get to see the shops and homes of those people. 

​​​3. Warehouse of the World:

Here, you will come to know how London is running a global trading hub. Also, the exhibit will showcase the global goods and artefacts that are traded in this trading hub. 

4. London, Sugar & Slavery: 

Do you know that London has a complex history? The city was associated with the transatlantic slave trade. This exhibit will explain to you about it and its social and economic impact on the city. 
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The Temporary Exhibitions Of The Museum: 

Besides the permanent exhibits, the Museum of London Docklands also organizes some temporary rotating exhibitions for people as well.

They showcase the specific aspects of the ancient past of this city. Some of the names of the temporary exhibitions are –

1. Tunnel – The Archaeology of Crossrail: 

London’s streets are not without history. There are many hidden secrets about them that originated from the time of the Crossrail project.

This temporary exhibition presents such historical secrets about the London streets to the visitors. 

​​2. The River Thames – Then & Now: 

The River Thames has a special importance in the history of London. Some people give importance to the historical significance of this river.

However, others keep on talking about their contemporary views regarding the river and the changes and development of London that it has brought.

Do you know what this exhibition of the Museum of London Docklands is all about? It’s all about pointing out the difference between these two views of people regarding the river and explaining them. 

Museum Of London Docklands – It’s Interactive Displays And Activities: 

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The interactive displays and activities of this museum are very interesting. Through these displays and activities, you will virtually get confronted with the –

• Recreated Victorian streets along with various stores and houses.
• Hands-on activities for various ages. They include interactive displays, games, quizzes etc. 
• Guided tours to explore rarely-found historical secrets and stories of the city. These tours are led by experts. 

The Collections And Archives of The Museum: 

The Museum of London Docklands has an impressive collection of solid hard copies of various objects. These objects include –

• Artefacts.
• Documents.
• Oral histories, etc. 

The highlights are –

• The Port of London Authority Collection’s past objects. Such objects include historical artefacts, records, etc.
• The Thames & Hudson River Archive is in the form of rare photographs and documents. 

The Museum’s Accessibility, Amenities And Activities: 

The Museum of London Docklands does not only give you information about the history of London.

It’s also for giving you accessibility to family-friendly activities. These activities are self-guided family trails.

You can enjoy quizzes for families here. Besides, the museum also organizes hands-on activities and lectures.

It offers performances for all ages. Even the young visitors can enjoy in the Children’s Park area. They can interact with one another there. 

Besides, the adults are also provided with various facilities in the Museum of London Docklands. The place offers wheelchair accessibility for the entire journey throughout the museum.

Also, there are cafes and restaurants in the place, where you can enjoy your refreshments along with the mind-blowing scenic views of the city.

You can also glimpse the beauty of the River Thames sitting over there.

Are you a gift lover or someone who loves to surprise your close ones with gifts? Then this place is ideal for you as you will find various gift shops here.

You can purchase your favourite souvenirs or books from these stores and gift them to the ones who matter to you. 

Upcoming Events Or Exhibitions in the Museum: 

• October half-term.
• Mudlarks Family Gallery.
• Welcome to the Docklands tour.
• Tots at the docks.
• Black History Month talks. 

Museum of London Docklands –

• Google Rating – 4.6 / 5. 
• Situated at – No 1 Warehouse in the West India Quay of London. 
• Contact Number – 020-7001-9844.
• Website Address – www.londonmuseum.org.uk
• Opening Hours – The museum remains open every day. You can visit it anytime between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. 

How to Get There?

You can get in there through different modes of transport like – 

• Public Transport.
• Cars & Coaches.
• Bikes. 

The different types of public transport are –

• Various tubes and DLRs, including West India Quay, Canary Wharf, and Westferry (Just a few minutes walk through them, and you will reach your destination).
• Buses with bus numbers 135, D3, D4, N550, etc. 
• River buses with bus numbers RB1 and RB6. 

While running your bike or driving your car, reach the Hertsmere road by Cineworld. Once you reach there, you have reached your destination.

There you can search for the bicycle rack that is situated behind us, Or, you can look for the PlantLock planters (at our front gate) to get to us. 

Admission Fee –

The museum doesn’t charge any fee from visitors because they visit it. However, if you’re willing to access any extra amenities over there, you are bound to pay for them.

FAQ:

1. Why is the London Docklands important? 

The London Docklands has a very ancient history preserved since the times of the Romans.

Also, this dockland has a record of handling a large number of heavy-weighted raw materials, being transported by ships.

These raw materials are processed by certain shops that are established near the dock. Such shops are –

• Sugar refineries.
• Flour mills.
• Timber yards, etc. 

Conclusion: 

So, when are you going to visit the Museum of London Docklands in London?

When are you going to uncover before yourself the mystery and history of its hidden treasure? Feeling curious to do it but can’t decide when?

Take advantage of the peak season and book your ticket on time. The reel of the history of the entire Docklands will run before you and you will get the feel of the era right there from the museum standing in this era.

Also, the fun activities are waiting for you to unveil them. Aren’t all of these exciting? Don’t wait! Just go for it!