Quartet of works by Jasmine Kahlia forms a trail across the estate for those living in, working in or visiting the area to discover before October 31, 2026
Detail from Jasmine Kahlia’s Blaq Excellence in Montgomery Square – image by Sean Pollock
Visitors to Canary Wharf, as well as those living or working in the area, will be able to enjoy four murals installed to mark Black History Month.
Free to view until the end of October, Jasmine Kahlia’s quartet of works draw on the interdisciplinary artist’s time spent with more than 20 interviewees.
Folkloriq is located in North Colonnade, Facin Our Dreamz can be found in Upper Bank Street, Blaq Excellence is in Montgomery Square and Heartest Truth is in George Street.
forging a path
“I’ve always been a person that hasn’t wanted to do things in a traditional way,” said Jasmine.
“I got involved with art at Camden Roundhouse – I do poetry, music, live looping, photography, film, literature and painting.
“When I was younger I was really interested in calligraphy and graffiti.
“Sometimes I make songs in the moment, it’s really fun.
“It sounds quite confusing when I tell people about all the disciplines, but I’ve found a really good balance.
“That’s why I’m always doing different things on different days – I really like the variety.”
Jasmine works in a wide range of disciplines – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
creating space
More than an artist, however, Jasmine is also the founding force behind Bluprinta, an arts agency representing creatives.
“I like to present my work as having quality and to make space for other artists who may be a few steps behind me, so it’s nice to bring them along with me,” she said.
“Some of the creative people I know are not very entrepreneurial but they’re keen to make art and share it.
“Others really strategise and plan how they’re going to get into spaces. That was my intention with Bluprinta.”
Having been commissioned by Canary Wharf Group (CWG) to produce these latest works, Jasmine started with colour and then built her designs around that.
She said: “It’s really special and it’s really nice to bring forward so many people’s stories.
“Black history is everyone’s collective history – everyone’s cultures belong to each other. There’s something about this city that we all share and it’s nice to be able to showcase that.
“For me, this is not simply artwork. It’s a moment.
“Not just for myself, but for families and ancestors of the featured individuals.
“It continues to be a massive journey for equal rights.
“Years of intentional work, diplomacy and focus, facing sacrifices and losses, in the quest for success, despite the reality of societal discrimination and racism.
“There is intergenerational talent and innovation that lives in Canary Wharf.
“To be highly accomplised in our careers is no mistake.
“Although the collection is temporary, the sentiment and intention are permanent.”
Folkloriq can be see in North Colonnade – image by Sean Pollock
discovering the work
The trail begins with Folkloriq in North Colonnade, a piece that examines contemporary art from the Caribbean and Central America.
The intention behind the piece is to bring forward the saturated and sunny colours of the diaspora, using the principle colours of red, yellow and green, which are contrasted with the solid black lines, reminiscent of illustrated books that Jasmine grew up reading like Anansi and Jamaica Tag Along.
Facin Our Dreamz is a large piece in Upper Bank Street, featuring individuals who live, work and study in Canary Wharf.
Spanning a range of professions from life sciences to AI to sport and finance, Jasmine undertook many interviews to bring this piece – and their stories to life.
Blaq Excellence is located in Montgomery Square and is billed as a heartfelt piece about liberation, freedom and creative flow.
It examines fluid movement, belonging and recognises the full diaspora, sampling colours of all skin tones into a single piece.
Jasmine deliberately selected honey brown, mahogany, ginger brown, cedar and tawny brown to blend into the main focal character.
Finally, Heartest Truth in George Street focuses into the snapshots of a successful career.
Each scene depicts a moment many can resonate with when embarking on their career.
These specific scenes are structured as: Downfall, Triumph, Connection and Freedom.
The colours are chosen from the heart space and reflect many natural elements, borrowing hues from landscapes, seascapes and sky.
Jasmine’s Facin Our Dreamz can be see outside Waitrose – image by Sean Pollock
they say
Lowri Harries, associate curator at CWG said: “The Canary Wharf public art collection is completely free to view, open all year round and designed for people to encounter naturally throughout their day.
“It belongs to whoever is passing, so it’s important that it also reflects our diverse working and residential population.
“Jasmine’s murals do exactly this. The murals are directly inspired by the careers, journeys and feelings of her subjects and their personal sense of belonging to the area, allowing them, and those with similar experiences, to recognise themselves within it and feel a real sense of connection.”
Jasmine in front of Heartest Truth in Geroge Street – image by Sean Pollock
key details: Black History Month at Canary Wharf
Folkloriq, Facin Our Dreamz, Blaq Excellence and Heartest Truth are set to be in place throughout October 2026 in Canary Wharf.
They are free to visit alongside the estate’s collection of more than 100 sculptures, murals and architectural pieces that make up its permanent collection.
Jon Betts started his career as a crew member at McDonald’s – cooking, cleaning and serving customers – all while studying for his A-Levels.
After going to university, but discovering it wasn’t for him, he went back to his role at the restaurant.
“I had the intention of getting a proper job, but that never really happened,” he said.
“Instead I worked my way up through the ranks, becoming business manager for different sites in east London including Barking, Canning Town and Leytonstone.
“We used to have a restaurant in Trafalgar Way near Billingsgate Market, which opened in the late 1990s and I was its business manager from 2000 to 2004 – that’s also when I moved to the area to be close to work and I was very proud to do all that.
“I had a 31-year career in McDonald’s and spent the last five of that as vice president of operations and as a member of the executive team.”
McDonald’s franchisee Jon Betts now owns 16 restaurants across east London – image supplied by McDonald’s
from four restaurants to 16…
Having always wanted to start his own business, in 2022, the opportunity presented itself and Jon left to become one of McDonald’s franchisees.
Starting with four sites, he’s grown his operation to 16 across east London, with the latest of special interest to those living or working in Canary Wharf, Poplar and the Isle Of Dogs.
The single-storey drive-thru near Billingsgate – once managed by Jon – closed in 2014, with the expectation that it would be replaced a few years later on the ground floor of a pair of residential towers.
Those plans failed to come to fruition but, 12 years on, the brand has returned to the area at the base of Urbanest’s newly minted trio of towers, built to house students.
“I’m thrilled we’ve reopened, especially because I spent many happy years here,” said Jon, who still lives locally.
“It has a décor scheme called Sunny-Side Up and we have 138 seats here for customers who want to eat in.
“We also have a drive-thru and we operate delivery out of the restaurant with three delivery partners – Deliveroo, Just Eat and Uber Eats.
“This was always a busy location for us and I know people have been keen for us to return.
“We have a queue of customers on the first day waiting for the doors to open so I’m hoping that’s a good indicator that our business will be very strong.
“Opening a new restaurant is always challenging and I’ve been privileged to do that in a number of capacities during my career.
“We have 120 staff employed here. We’ve recruited 50 and 70 are drawn from our existing restaurants and have transferred here.”
The new restaurant employs 120 staff and has 138 seats for diners – image supplied by McDonald’s
a natural step
Having overseen operations at 240 company-owned restaurants while at McDonald’s, Jon is no stranger to the business and originally set himself the goal of running 20 sites through his own company.
“It felt like a very natural step to become a franchisee, but to reach 16 has exceeded my expectations,” he said.
“The growth has been quite quick as the average franchisee operates about six or seven sites.
“As a business, I employ around 1,300 people, which is quite a responsibility and a privilege. It’s really rewarding to see people you hire go on to be successful.
“It’s a great company to work for because it creates opportunities for people. I started as crew and now I’m lucky enough to have 16 restaurants.
“There are 1,500 McDonald’s restaurants in the UK and 99% of our business managers started as crew members.
“Sometimes people join us while they’re studying and the job is a stepping stone to something else.
“But it’s also very rewarding to stay in the business.
“You learn a lot of skills that you can use in other areas of your life.
“We’re the biggest restaurant chain in the world and the largest in the UK.
“We offer a lot to our customers, although I understand sometimes the brand is polarising.”
The interior decor décor scheme is called Sunny-Side Up – image supplied by McDonald’s
the lure of the Double Cheeseburger
Currently top of the menu, alongside all the classics, McDonald’s is offering its World Menu Heist, offering British diners popular options from its restaurants around the world.
Top picks include the Big Rösti (from Germany), which comes complete with a hash brown and bacon, Paprika McShaker Fries (from The Netherlands) which come with special seasoning and Mac And Cheese Triangles (from the UAE) – crispy bites ideal for dipping.
Jon said: “Personally, I enjoy a Double Cheeseburger or Chicken McNuggets and Fries, although I watch what I eat now because of my age, so I don’t have the latter as much as I’d like.
“Another thing that’s important to me is that we’re good neighbours in the areas we serve.
“We do a lot of work within the local community to help improve the environment – litter picks for example.
“We also engage with local schools to provide work experience opportunities, which can lead to jobs.
“A large percentage of our workforce are young adults – it’s a privilege to often be people’s first job.”
The restaurant also features a drive-thru – image supplied by McDonald’s
key details: McDonald’s Billingsgate
McDonald’s Billingsgate is located at the junction of Trafalgar Way and Aspen Way and is open Sunday to Thursday from 5am to 11pm and 24 hours on Fridays and Saturdays.
“Regardless of your favourite way to train, the one thing nobody disagrees on is the importance of strength and conditioning work,” said Will Pate.
“There are just so many benefits. People want to move their bodies and feel strong.
“It’s the reason I’ll always recommend strength work whatever level you’re at and whatever your reason for training.”
There’s a real note of excitement in Will’s voice as we’re talking – a sense that his area of expertise, as Third Space’s master trainer of strength and conditioning for group exercise, is deservedly having its moment.
“There’s such demand for it,” he said. “We know what’s being used in our gyms and it’s the squat racks and cable machines.
“I think it’s because people recognise the benefits and they know it’s not about becoming a body builder.
“It’s about functionality and longevity. It’s all about the bigger picture.
“Personally, I don’t train for aesthetics, but so that my body feels good.
“As I get older, that will still be the case.
“In the past there was this idea that, particularly for women, training with weights would make you bulky.
“That’s obviously not the case and if you look at what women are searching for online, strong is now a more popular search than skinny.
“I think there’s a greater appreciation that everyone’s on their own journey and will have their own goals.
“More and more, our members are focused on how they are looking after themselves to stay strong and injury free.”
Third Space’s Canary Wharf and Wood Wharf clubs have extensive facilities for resistance training – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
two clubs, one membership
Third Space offers access to its Canary Wharf and Wood Wharf clubs under a single membership package, both offering an extensive array of equipment for resistance training.
Members can also take advantage of a packed timetable of classes designed to help them take their first steps into weightlifting, hone their skills or challenge themselves.
“Whatever people’s goals are, we want to give them the building blocks to achieve them,” said Will.
“For example, we now run our Lift classes on four-week cycles so that there’s progression built in for people who are going regularly.
“We’re always encouraging people to challenge themselves with the weight they are working with when it’s safe to do so.
“We also offer smaller classes such as Yard Weightlifting, which is up to 10 people.
“It’s inspired by Olympic Weightlifting to help people learn the correct techniques for the clean and jerk and the snatch.
“These classes run in six-week cycles and are in smaller groups to make sure we’re delivering the right standard of training in a completely safe way.
“These are complex movements. You’re moving from the floor to overhead in less than a second, so you have to be able to break that down, to understand the challenge that each member is facing.
“Having a small group allows you to do that.
“One of the challenges I have managing our group exercise coaches is making sure that, whatever class they’re teaching, members are getting the right advice, encouragement and correction when they need it.
“It’s our job to ensure they feel that they’re making progress.
“Whatever level someone is at, we can help move them forward.
“In the same class I might have someone who’s qualified for a weightlifting championship and someone else who has never touched a barbell before.
“We always want people to feel that they’re learning, that they can go away and practise the skills and enjoy training.
“It doesn’t matter what level you’re at, skills are always coachable.
“Members are still coming to classes for a reason and, for everyone, it’s up to us to understand what that is and help them get what they need.”
Will loads up a bar on one of the club’s squat racks – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
a wealth of facilities
Both Canary Wharf and Wood Wharf have extensive resistance training areas which are constantly assessed to ensure members have all the equipment they could want.
Will himself is passionate about curating classes to help members get the most out of the club whether that’s alone or in a group setting.
Football obsessed as a kid, he had an ambition to become a PE teacher before moving to London and embarking on a career in the fitness industry.
Initially working with Gymbox, he made the switch to Third Space alongside fellow master trainer Clare Walters and has spent the last eight years honing his skills.
“I did do some internships with some lively groups of kids when I was at university and decided it would be easier to teach adults,” he said.
“It was never the plan to take this path but I’m so grateful because I really love it.
“I always call our Canary Wharf club the mothership because it’s so extensive.
“If you can’t find a way to train that you enjoy here, then I don’t think it exists.
“I look after all the strength and conditioning classes in our studios and one of the other big assets we have is The Yard, which was inspired by the boom of crossfit-style training.
“In there you’re looking at weightlifting, lots of platforms followed by gymnastic work and the callisthenic crowd.
“I always say that if you’re looking to get stronger, Canary Wharf has everything you could want.
“Yard Strong is a really fun class we offer.
“Born of the popularity of strongman events, it offers people the chance to do lots of things they might not normally try.
“People find it really enjoyable, but it’s also carefully put together.
“We base it around primary lifts and supplementary lifts to ensure the training is effective.
“That’s so important because seeing the benefits and when they click for a member is just great.
“Our bodies weren’t designed to sit the way so many people do – I think more are aware of that now and we’re giving them action they can take to address it.”
Will says Third Space offers resistance training at all levels – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
key details: Third Space
Third Space The Wharf membership includes full access to its Wood Wharf and Canary Wharf clubs and costs £257 per month plus a £100 joining fee.
This covers full access to both sites and all classes on the timetable.
Sometimes making a house a home is about the things you choose to put into it.
Taking inspiration from the local area can be a good place to start for those just moving in or a way of updating and refreshing an interior for those who’ve lived in east London and the Docklands for a while.
The event will showcase work by more than 100 artists in a free exhibition that serves as an opportunity to discover and acquire locally made pieces.
Celebrating the breadth and depth of ELP’s output, the group’s latest show will feature print produced with techniques including woodblock, screen print, etching and relief.
“Our goal for this show is to explore how different perspectives interact within a shared space,” said ELP member and festival organiser, Inga Eičaitė.
“Every piece tells a unique story, and I encourage visitors to take their time – to start conversations and to really connect with the work.”
Detail from You Can’t Give What You Never Had by Maurice Citron – image by Maurice Citron
an exhibition and a live happening
The showcase is set to take over The Art Pavilion in Mile End Park from October 2-11, 2026.
Free to visit, the exhibition will be open daily from 11am-5pm.
The event will include Box Set, a collection of 40 limited edition prints created by ELP members.
The festival will, this year, also feature The Dreaming Of Butterflies – an evening of performances on October 8 aimed at exploring how printmaking intersects with dance and music.
The event will end with a collaborative collage led by ELP artist duo Jairo Zaldua and Nicola Jane Green.
The evening is free to attend and runs from 7pm.
The Art Pavilion is located a short walk from Mile End Tube and can be reached easily from Canary Wharf via the 277 bus.
Detail from Moonstone, Sapphire And Saffron by Lydie Gallais – image by Lydie Gallais
key details: Festival Of Print 2026
East London Printmakers’ Festival Of Print 2026 is set to take place at The Art Pavilion in Mile End Park from October 2-11, 2026.
Entry is free and the exhibition will be open from 11am-5pm daily.
“My mother was a dressmaker, who also did alterations and worked for companies,” said Philip Chalk, tailor and co-owner of the Greenwich Collective.
“Until I started school at the age of five, I’d sit beside her, tinkering.
“We’d make things and play with sewing machines.
“My family in Portugal were tailors, shirt-makers and so on, there was skill there.”
Almost absent-mindedly, while we’re talking, Philip has noticed a loose button on his jacket and – without breaking conversation – cuts it off and sews it neatly back on, all without removing the garment from his shoulders.
It’s a small detail, but then there’s a feeling that the Greenwich Collective is all about paying attention to those.
The shop, which Philip owns with his business partner Wayne Carter, is – at first glance – a glorious melange of menswear.
There are rails hung with suits and shirts, vibrant displays of ties, canes, umbrellas, socks and cuff-links.
Some are for sale, some are works in progress for clients. Everywhere there are antique pieces, artworks and curios.
This is no loosely connected bric-a-brac, though. Like the fine clothes created within, everything has been chosen.
Inside, the store is filled with menswear, curiosities and antiques – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
a passion for retail
Philip has an extensive history in the industry, evidenced perhaps by the stacks of swatches in innumerable sample books stacked neatly along one wall,
In addition to studying at the London College Of Fashion and working as a bespoke tailor, he’s spent time at Ted Baker, TM Lewin, Thomas Pink and once bought a shoe shop from David Moss (of Moss Bros) – learning a considerable amount about selling footwear in the process.
His is a history of Jermyn Street, floral shirts, Soho, kosher tailoring, Docklands, Whitechapel, riotous nights out and making clothes for classical composers.
Now, the shop in Greenwich is something of a labour of love – the display window for an operation employing around 29 people.
“I’ve always loved the retail side of the business and at this stage I’m bored with the idea of purely trying to make money,” said Philip.
“We offer the best alterations, we’re the best tailors in the country and possibly the best shirt-makers in the world.
“I do the tailoring and Wayne does the shirts. It’s hard, but we enjoy it – I’ve run lots of different kinds of businesses and it’s about wanting to do something you’re interested in.
“Our pieces are bespoke and made the way our customers like, generally with our stamp on them.
“Everything is considered, every detail.”
Greenwich Collective is located at the southern end of Greenwich Market – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
establishing the why
Prices at Greenwich Collective start at around £2,400 for a bespoke two-piece suit and £275 for a shirt.
Customers can choose from a wide range of fabrics and styles with details to meet every requirement.
“People come into the shop, we sit down, have a drink and see what’s doable,” said Philip.
“We often talk finance as early as possible to understand what can be done.
“They say no-one knows you as well as your doctor or your tailor and it’s so true.
“As for the latter, they should be asking what a customer wants a suit for?
“Is it for a career, are they looking for promotion, to get noticed?
“Is it for a date, just to look cool or will they be dancing in it or travelling?
“When it’s for a wedding there’s a lot to consider – the shirt, tie, socks and the shoes. I tend to do masculine tailoring, I dress clients to glide.
“Most people want to look like James Bond or Cary Grant, so that’s what we try to achieve.
“I generally put my clients in better cloth than you’d expect for the price.
“We have dozens of swatch books from all kinds of factories, but there are a few suppliers I advise people to deal with over the others because they offer high quality that’s great value.
“I’d rather put people in a really good suit so they feel at their best.
“If you went to Savile Row, you might find yourself paying £10,000 for a suit made from the same cloth.
“So long as we cover our costs and our risk, we’re happy to offer the prices we do.”
Philip, Wayne and the team offer ready-to-wear products as well as bespoke clothing – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
connected to the community
Greenwich Collective has been trading for close to five years, but has a timeless feel about it.
As we’re chatting, Philip is constantly waving to people through the window, pointing out artists and singers that he knows.
It’s clear there’s connection and community here, which is part of the attraction.
“We get involved with stuff – the Greenwich Historical Society, pub crawls, the other traders on the market,” he said.
“I enjoy it. Everything in the shop is for sale, but it’s not.
“Some things I can’t part with. I have a lot of stuff and I enjoy it – I must have 20,000 pairs of cuff-links, 8,000 ties.
“I go to a lot of auctions and buy things – old surveyor’s sticks, tripods, antiques – I take pleasure in them.
“Some things we sell are new, others are old. I’m passionate about vintage clothing too.
“A great thing to do is to buy a vintage piece for the quality and then have us alter it to fit.
“Sometimes it’s equally hard to part with the clothes we make.
“If you’ve spent 200 hours making something, it can be hard to say goodbye to it, but you know the customer will take real pleasure in it.”
Shoes for sale at Greenwich Collective – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
key details: Greenwich Collective
Greenwich Collective is located in Nelson Arcade at the southern end of Greenwich Market.
Drop into the shop, call 020 3795 4328 or email gc@thegreenwichcollective.uk to book an appointment or make and enquiry.
Greenwich Market is easily accessible from Canary Wharf via the DLR to Cutty Sark and a short walk.
Alternatively visitors can take the Uber Boat By Thames Clippers or walk via the Greenwich Foot Tunnel.
This is sometimes true for businesses as much as for those who make their home afloat.
The story of the Maria Alexander Spa Boat began around three years ago.
Built and fitted-out to exacting specifications, the vessel has a treatment room for two and an open-plan spa space for up to four guests.
This features a sauna and a hot tub that manage to feel connected to the water outside, despite being in near seclusion.
While the boat has spent around two years cruising the canals of London, its offering constantly refined and its location changing, the couple behind the venture have now found their curated craft a more permanent home at Limehouse Marina.
It’s been a lengthy voyage, but there’s a sense that this is the dawn of a new chapter for the spa, which offers an experience like no other on the capital’s waterways.
The boat is a joint venture between Ingrid Eriksson and Corvin Roman.
The former has an extensive background in spas and the latter in insurance, teaming up on the foundation of their burgeoning relationship to create a floating haven of relaxation.
The facility accommodates up to four guests and offers multiple options, but the most popular package is the two-hour Private Floating Spa Treatment for two including a 30-minute massage.
The Maria Alexander Spa Boat is now moored at Limehouse Marina in east London – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
stepping on board
“We greet customers at the entrance to the marina, take them to the boat and then show them around the spa,” said Ingrid.
“Then they have a little foot soak, some organic herbal tea and simply relax for a while.
“When they’re ready, we show our guests through to the massage room where we deliver a half-hour masage that’s focussed on relaxation.
“Afterwards, our guests are free to use the spa facilities, take a sauna and enjoy the hot tub. They can even open the doors at the front of the boat to see out while they’re soaking.”
The purpose-built spaces are designed for privacy so guests feel as though they have the whole boat to themselves – however, Corvin, Ingrid or staff can be summoned via small brass hand bells should anything be needed.
“We created something that we thought we’d enjoy ourselves,” said Corvin, who along with his partner helps deliver treatments on the Maria Alexander Spa Boat.
“At the start, I didn’t want to get involved with a business I didn’t properly understand, so I studied massage at the City Lit.
The boat includes a treatment room for two – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
“Part of what we’re offering is that the vibe here is different to other spas.
“When we did our research, we couldn’t find anything else like it.
“This isn’t a space where you’ll find people who are just hired therapists.
“Ideally we always want at least one of us to be here – we want to be talking to customers but also making sure they have space to relax. It’s about looking after people.
“Visiting a spa is about slowing down – put it on the water and you have the best of both worlds.
“We might now be in a marina, but you still feel the movement of the water, you hear the rain on the roof and the calls of the birds.
“You can hear the bells of St Anne’s Limehouse, but once you’re inside you can close yourself off from the world.”
Ingrid added: “We’ve curated the whole experience.
“Spas can be quite impersonal but here we wanted to create something more romantic, a calmer offering.
“We tested it with friends and people in the industry to make sure we were getting the spa journey right and we believe we’ve now done that.”
Maria Alexander Spa Boat co-owner Ingrid Eriksson – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
developing the offering
Built in Liverpool and craned into the water at Watford, the Maria Alexander was fitted out in Tottenham before travelling along the canals of the capital.
The vessel’s sauna is wood-fired to a toasty 90ºC and its hot tub features powerful jets for various kinds of massage.
Guests are supplied with oatmeal-coloured robes, matching towels and small batch UK-made cleansing products.
Typical refreshments provided include tea and dried fruit, although the couple have plans to widen this offering in the future.
“We’re looking into offering afternoon teas and other catering options such as light meals, depending on the package,” said Corvin.
“We have the facilities on board to do this.
“We usually ask groups of more than two to contact us directly to discuss their requirements so we can tell them what’s possible.
Maria Alexander Spa Boat co-owner Corvin Roman – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
“Usually our bookings are for couples or two friends, but we do have three or four people sometimes.
“While we don’t allow children on board, we can accommodate babies by arrangement if needed.”
Ingrid added: “It’s a complete experience focussed on relaxation.
“It’s perfect for couples or friends. One of the things we wanted to make sure of was that there’s no waiting around.
“Sometimes when you visit a spa there can be a long period of time before they’re ready to offer your treatment.
“Here, because guests have the boat to themselves, we don’t have that issue.”
There’s a private wood-fired sauna on board – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
refinement and evolution
While the core offering remains, the couple are constantly working to refine and evolve the experience, tweaking the interior design and adding extra shine to proceedings.
Plans for the future include potentially partnering with local hotels and developing other spa boats to deliver different treatments.
Corvin said that while running a floating spa presented a range of challenges not faced by land-based businesses, it also had many advantages and it was a pleasure to offer guests something unique.
He said: “People who have been to other spas are often not sure what to expect, so it’s amazing when they tell us it’s spectacular and unlike anything they’ve tried before.”
The Maria Alexander Spa Boat features a hot tub for up to four people – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
tired + tested: Maria Alexander Spa Boat
It’s clear from the moment of arrival at the Maria Alexander Spa Boat that this is something different.
There are floating saunas in London, perhaps even boats offering spa treatments, but nothing as considered as this vessel’s offering.
After slipping shoes off, enjoying a quick tour of the facilities (including an incinerating toilet), we change into our swimwear, don our robes and indulge in a foot purifying foot soak with plenty of time to sip cool water and relax.
When we’re ready, we go through to the calm, relaxing treatment room where there’s just room for a massage for two.
Snuggled under towels, Corvin and Ingrid come through and deliver a slow relaxing massage which leaves a warm, lingering tingle.
The pressure is subtle rather than intense, enough to get the nerves firing without stressing the muscles too much.
Then it’s back to the spa and we’re left on our own to enjoy the offering.
After an intense burst in the sauna, with scented water to boost the humidity, it’s time for a cold shower and then a lengthy soak in the hot tub, our bodies soothed by the potent jets as we relax.
Gazing out at the other boats while gently bobbing along and then looking up to the clouds through the vessel’s skylight is a rare pleasure.
At £200 for two people, the quality and attention to detail here makes the experience a steal.
The boat has been finished to a very high standard – akin to the best spas one might find in high-end hotels.
The fact you can find such an experience on a boat in Limehouse simply adds to the charm of the offering.
Jon Massey
***** (5/5)
Guests are invited to don the robes supplied – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
key details: Maria Alexander Spa Boat
The Maria Alexander Spa Boat is located in Limehouse Marina, a few minutes on foot from Limehouse DLR and is within walking distance of Canary Wharf.
The spa is only open by appointment with pre-booking essential.
“Nothing can mitigate or change the catastrophic loss felt by staff at BGC Group when planes crashing into the World Trade Centre as part of the 9/11 terrorist attacks took the lives of 658 people, employees of its the parent company, Cantor Fitzgerald.
“The feeling never goes away,” said Sean Windeatt, BGC’s co-CEO.
“I was on the phone to a colleague in the towers when the planes hit – it doesn’t matter that it was 25 years ago.
“I’m always thinking about it, but ultimately those are private, inner thoughts.
“Recently, I was talking to the former president of the company, Shaun Lynn, about that time and remembering what happened.
“But we were also saying how incredibly proud we are of what’s happened since – how the company has successfully rebuilt itself and what we’re able to do for charitable causes.”
That latter achievement, especially, is extraordinary.
After ensuring colleagues affected by the attacks were supported BGC launched its annual Charity Day in 2005.
The financial services company invites charities’ celebrity patrons onto its trading floor to close deals on behalf of their organisations with all the revenue donated to good causes.
In addition to the money, the media attention generated helps raise awareness and buzz around organisations’ activities.
This year, a record-breaking $16milllion was generate in a single day, bringing the overall total to $250million since 2005.
It’s a demonstration of the impact a sustained, powerful initiative can have.
BGC Group co-CEO Sean Windeatt is calling for more firms to donate to charity – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
part of the company’s identity
“We still have around 50 members of staff who were at BGC 25 years ago – that means, of the 1,500 people who work in the company, 1,450 were not working on that day,” said Sean.
“However, all of them understand what we stand for, that charity is in the DNA of the business.
“With what we went through at that time, we were lucky to remain in existence.
“The people working here now know that and I’m immensely proud of how hard they work for our Charity Day to ensure we make as much money for those organisations as possible.
“It couldn’t happen without the commitment of our brokers and the generosity of our clients.”
Michael McIntyre appears on behalf of Prostate Cancer Research – image by Dave Benett/Getty Images for BGC Group
This year, BGC’s phones were staffed by the likes of Dame Helen Mirren, Tom Hardy, Hugh Grant, Leigh-Anne Pinnock of Little Mix, Michael Mcintyre, Maro Itoje, Fatboy Slim (aka Norman Cook), Sir Gareth Southgate, Youtuber KSI and many, many more.
Since 2005, over 1,000 charities have received funding through the initiative including more than 60 UK organisations that have received cash every year.
These range from large global charities to small grassroots initiatives.
However, BGC now wants other businesses to follow suit. In light of a report by the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), which found just 27% of companies supported charities in any way and only 17% donated cash, Sean is calling on others to do more and to reap the obvious rewards.
Helen Mirren drives up prices on behalf of Denville Hall – image by Dave Benett/Getty Images for BGC Group
a call to action
“We operate in a fiercely competitive business world and I don’t think there’s any doubt that giving to charity makes us more successful,” said Sean.
“The fact we are supporting others is something that’s recognised by our clients, other businesses and our own staff.
“They know we’re about more than just making money, we’re about supporting others. They choose to work with us or work harder for us as a result and we become more successful.
“As our revenues rise, so does the amount we give to charity – it’s a virtuous circle. I was shocked by the statistic in the report.
“I understand that it’s tough for businesses, as it is for individuals, but companies that are doing well have some sort of responsibility to do some kind of charitable giving.
John Caudwell, right, completes a trade for Caudwell Youth – image by Dave Benett/Getty Images for BGC Group
“For the percentage to be less than a third really surprised me, especially at a time when the cost of living crisis is stopping households contributing and often making charities’ overheads rise.
“What we’re trying to do in the wake of our latest charity day is to raise awareness of the impact the corporate world can have by helping to fill that gap.”
This year, BGC has teamed up with philanthropist John Caudwell to call on companies to do more.
CAF’s report found that if businesses donated 1% of their pre-tax profits, charities could receive nearly £5billion in additional funding – more than three times the drop in donations last year.
John, the first British billionaire to sign the Giving Pledge, committing the majority of his personal fortune to good causes, took part in BGC’s Charity Day to help raise money for Caudwell Youth.
He said: “BGC’s Charity Day is a fantastic initiative and a powerful example of how businesses can support charities and make a lasting difference in people’s lives.
“Having founded Caudwell Youth, I have seen first hand how vital this kind of support is.
“This generous donation from BGC Charity Day will fund one-to-one mentoring for young people facing mental health challenges, leaving care, or at risk of exploitation and offending.
“Thanks to BGC’s support, Caudwell Youth can reach more young people with the consistent support and guidance they need to build a brighter future.”
Norman Cook, aka Fatboy Slim, helps raise cash for Martlets – image by Dave Benett/Getty Images for BGC Group
real things in real lives
While the glitz and glam of the event itself is important, for Sean one of the most valuable and moving sides to Charity Day is seeing the granular impact of those millions of dollars.
“The event has paid for wheelchairs, hospice care, medical research and community projects – real things in real lives,” he said.
“On the day itself we invite charities and some of the people they help to attend and it’s a moment of great pride to watch everyone pulling together, meeting and having fun – to see how much benefit is being created.
“It’s wonderful to see that energy. Then over the course of the year it doesn’t stop.
We get out of the office to meet the charities – we give staff volunteering opportunities and it’s incredible to hear what our support means to these organisations.
“We know from these experiences how regular funding and support is so important for charities – especially at the moment, so that’s exactly why we’re saying businesses should do more when they can.
“If just 50% of the companies that currently give nothing were to contribute 1% of pre-tax profits it would make such a difference.”
NASSA founder and CEO Natasha Hart – image by Matt Grayson
case study: National All Star Skills Academy (NASSA)
The National All Star Skills Academy (NASSA) is an east London charity based in Newham that uses sport as an engine to fight gang culture and knife crime, but also to act as an agent of social mobility.
Centred primarily on basketball, its Carry A Basketball Not A Blade campaign reaches thousands of school kids each year, while its training sessions and teams are vehicles to focus young minds on fitness, skill, discipline and collaborative effort.
As a grassroots charity founded by Natasha Hart in 2006, the organisation has an extensive track record of effectively addressing issues in society through rapid action with programmes that deliver results.
It’s quick to respond and maintains the feel of a close-knit family, despite helping and educating more than 100,000-plus young people.
Last year, BGC Group decided to donate $10,000 to NASSA to support its ongoing work in east London, raised during its Charity Day.
“I can’t begin to say how grateful we are to BGC for this money,” said Natasha, who remains the charity’s CEO.
“We immediately decided, having identified a need locally, to use it to support a new kind of session for NASSA.
“I’d spoken with several mothers locally and we set up regular ball skills training for young people with conditions such as autism, Down’s Syndrome or other complex needs.
“The donation covers court hire at the University Of East London, all the equipment needed and also pays for a specialist coach.
“Over eight months, we were able to run 90-minute sessions once a week for young people aged eight to 18 in response to clear demand from the local community.
“Just through word of mouth we had 25 families registered on our books.
“The young people would come down and learn skills inspired by basketball that are appropriate for their abilities – they’d be passing, shooting and dribbling.
“But they would also be plenty of free time to just have fun and run about.
“One of the things we noticed was that the coach was able to also teach them elements of discipline.
“While there was a lot of excited running around in the early sessions, that changed – you would not believe how much progress they made.
“We also used some of the money to reward that by purchasing certificates and medals for participants and you could see in their eyes what that recognition meant to them.”
In addition to allowing NASSA to train some of its own coaches in-house to help run the sessions, the initiative has also provided parents and carers with some respite.
“Caring for a child with complex needs or a specific condition can be very intense and it can be a 24-hour job,” said Natasha.
“One of the reasons for setting up these sessions was to give parents and carers a break, even if that’s just an hour where they can get a cup of tea in the UEL cafe.
“At the start we set up a WhatsApp group so we could keep in contact with all the parents easily and update them.
“The feedback we’ve had has been amazing, especially from the young people themselves who have been asking the adults to text us to make sure they’re happening.
“It’s something they really look forward to and it’s fantastic to see.”
“We officially turn 30 this September,” said Matthew Jameson, artistic director of The Space arts centre on the Isle Of Dogs.
“It’s extraordinary to be the guardian and representative of an organisation like this at a point in its life when it feels like it’s grown up.
“We can still see the vision that its founder, Robert Richardson had for this place in the 1990s – a multiform arts centre, a community centre and hub on the Isle Of Dogs for all its people regardless of religious or political persuasion.
“It was to be something to expose them to all forms of art – that’s the only instruction we’ve been given and what we try to achieve.”
While in-person tickets for Space 30: An Evening Of Celebration on Friday, September 25, 2026 rapidly sold out (thanks in no small part to the promise of patron Sir Ian Mckellen performing some Shakespeare), the event will act as both a birthday party and the start of a wider fundraising campaign.
“We’ve got a smorgasbord of acts who have all played their part in The Space’s story,” said Matthew.
“Andrew Campling, a composer, conductor and pianist who was a dear friend of our founder will be playing some of his own compositions.
“We’ll also have Kayla McQuarrie, the host of our new open mic comedy nights and Stephen Smith who has smashed the Edinburgh Fringe with his show One Man Poe and found his feet at The Space.
“Then Sir Ian will perform some Shakespeare and talk to us about the journey of turning this building from a disused church into what it is today having helped lay the ground for that project in the early 1990s.
“Depending on the levels of donations we get on the night I might be shaving my beard, my hair or even waxing my whole body.
“Then, as part of Space 30, we’ll be unveiling all sorts of ways to donate to The Space – people can sponsor seats for £200 or sign up to support a creative for £630, which allows us to bring in an artist, subsidise their practice and give them a safe place to develop and hone their craft.
“It’s a project we’re very keen to do but one we just don’t have the resources for at the moment.
“We also want to remind people that a £60 donation lets us open for an evening to host a community-minded group or organisation.
“This is the start of a new chapter in the life of The Space – we’re under new management, split jointly between myself and Sarah Read and there are exciting times ahead.
“The people we’re working with are getting excited by the multi-form vision, something that can be somewhere for everyone on the Island, that puts on fun, engaging, entertaining shows and events with pathos and meaning.
“We want to provide people with somewhere that’s affordable, that they can come and see their first show or discover new artists.”
The Space is located on Westferry Road on the Isle Of Dogs – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
welcoming audiences through the doors
One of the key messages The Space is keen to amplify is its accessibility. While being nestled on the Isle Of Dogs, the arts centre is less than 10 minutes’ walk from Mudchute DLR and served by multiple bus routes connecting it to Canary Wharf in 12 minutes. Walking between the estate and the venue takes less than 20 minutes.
“A lot of what we do is about getting people across the threshold,” said Matthew. “We have a beautiful building here but there’s a mystery about it – is it a church, a synagogue, a power station?
“Once people visit, it can be enough for them to fall in love with the place.
“We’d welcome even more people coming from Canary Wharf and we’re incredibly grateful to CWG for the collaborations we’ve done with them over many years.
“I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone and all the organisations that have contributed to The Space and who have helped us make it the place it is today.
“If people haven’t visited for a while or have just wondered what this strange building is on Westferry Road, then I want to say that we’re here, we’re open and we have a broad programme for everyone.
“As artistic director, one of the things I’ve most enjoyed about the role has been getting out into the community and meeting people with the aim of working more closely – with Theatreship, for example.
“We always punch above our weight in terms of the performers who come here – such as our stand-up comedy nights, for example.
“This is your invitation to come into The Space, see a show and discover what it is we’re doing on the Isle Of Dogs.”
Travelling for work often comes with conditions and strict budgets.
But every location also arrives with opportunity – the chance to discover something new, even if it’s just to dip one’s toe in local culture.
Take Bournemouth, for example.
Gazing out across Poole Bay, with Swanage and The Needles of the Isle Of Wight visible from its sandy beaches, it sits two hours south of London via South Western Railway’s direct services from Waterloo.
Today it’s a place of holidays, study at the university and commerce – especially at the expansive Bournemouth International Centre.
While the heart of the town has gone though some modernisation, its pleasure gardens (including a well-stocked aviary), seafront theatre and pier remain symbols of a place that was once the seaside playground of the rich and famous.
Today it’s run by the Britannia Hotels chain, meaning prices for a small double room (without windows) start at £75.
It’s a budget option when visiting the town, but this sprawling Grade II listed pile offers something none of the other low-priced establishments locally can muster.
Firstly, it’s enormous, with a grand cafe feel to its lobby, a massive restaurant and a ballroom with an impressive barrel-vaulted ceiling.
It’s all just minutes from the beach, a glorious relic from a time when British seaside tourism boomed.
The Royal Bath Hotel in Bournemouth – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
an historic destination
Opened in 1838 on the day of Queen Victoria’s coronation, the hotel’s most prosperous times came under the ownership of Merton and Annie Russell-Cotes.
The couple transformed its fortunes, attracting a string of celebrities and even royalty to the town as well as playing an important role in improving its rail connections.
Merton met and married Annie while he was working as a travelling salesman, a career that lasted a decade and gave him a solid grounding in what people expected from the places they were staying.
Relocating to Annie’s native Glasgow, the couple purchased the lease of the Hanover Hotel, running it successfully before selling up and acquiring the Royal Bath in a move to the south coast that was partly made with the hope the warmer climate would improve Merton’s health.
The grand cafe-style lobby of The Royal Bath Hotel – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
Between 1876 and 1880 they extended and extensively refurbished it, the foundation of a business that would make them wealthy enough to travel the world.
From 1884 they visited Australasia, America, India, the Near East, Egypt, the Pacific Islands and Japan and collected voraciously, filling the Royal Bath’s public and private rooms with treasures.
It attracted the likes of the Prince Of Wales (before he became Edward VII), Benjamin Disraeli and the painter Hubert Von Herkomer, as well as Oscar Wilde and his lover Lord Alfred Douglas.
Wilde described it as a place that has taken “the greatest beauty and elegance of a palace and filled it with gems of art for the use and benefit of the public at hotel prices”.
Eventually the couple’s collections outgrew the hotel and in 1897 they created the eccentric East Cliff Hall next door as both a way to display their artworks and objects and as a luxury home for themselves serviced largely by hotel staff.
Sir Merton and Lady Annie, who served as mayor and mayoress of Bournemouth decided to leave their house and collection to the people of the town.
The Russell-Cotes Art Gallery And Museum – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
an extraordinary collection
Today, the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery And Museum showcases those pieces, with much of the house presented as it would have been in its owners’ day.
Furniture and ornaments are not kept in cabinets, with visitors free to explore the spaces, warned only to not sit on seats adorned with a dried thistle.
The collection is broad – everything from high art to Victorian tourist tat.
The couple had a taste for vibrant paintings of cattle and horses as much as they went in for Biblical and classical scenes.
The house itself blends architectural styles into something of a fantasy palace with some of the best views over the sea in Bournemouth.
The interiors at the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery And Museum are something to behold – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
It may have been self interest, but Merton was instrumental in bringing the railway into the town.
Today that decision simply means easier access to the pleasures of its seafront, not least those found in his former home.
The Russell-Cotes Art Gallery And Museum is located at East Cliff Promenade and is open Tuesday to Sunday and Bank Holidays from 10am-5pm.
Tickets cost £12.50 for adults and £6 for children aged 5-17.
Coya By Nicholas James is at the heart of Westbourne – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
visit Westbourne
Head up the hill from the town centre of Bournemouth and you’ll find this pleasant, up-market area centred around a Victorian arcade that’s packed with shops selling curiosities and books.
Our top tip is to stop off at Coya By Nicholas James, a wine and cocktail bar offering pleasantly constructed small plates.
Recently opened, the interior features vibrant posters in frames, zinc-topped high tables and leather banquettes.
We try a succession of dishes for £10 each including crispy Tempura Prawns with a sticky chilli jam, an earthy Spiced Houmus with roasted vegetables and toothsome Salt And Pepper Squid with ponzu dipping sauce.
It’s all solid stuff and ideal for taking the edge off a pair of classic Margaritas – two for £15 all day, every day.
The Alum Beach Hut is a popular spot – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
Once sated, follow the trail celebrating former resident Robert Louis Stevenson and his adventurous fiction down to the sea where the Alum Beach Hut provides views over the water and plenty of well-appointed refreshments to tourists and locals alike.
Key West Restaurant is located on Bouremouth Pier – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
dine at Key West Restaurant
>> No trip to Bournemouth would be complete without striding out onto its squat, muscular pier.
With waves crashing all around, stroll its full length to Key West Restaurant for breakfast overlooking the sea, all served under the unexpected calm of the venue’s breathtaking glitter ball.
The place does a decent Full English for £15.95, a premium price but well worth it for the view.
The service is slick and the flavours nostalgic.
It’s the kind of place where, if you hang around until evening, you might just catch Elvis on stage.
After dining, consider indulging in a zip line back to the beach. It’s the quickest way to return to the sandy comforts of the shore.
Joe says SWR Business Direct has features that making implementing a travel policy easy – image supplied by SWR
on track with SWR’s Joe Thurgood
Q
I’m formulating a travel policy for employees at my company. What are the benefits of doing this and how can the SWR Business Direct platform help us apply it to journeys made by staff?
A
Travel policies. They are a must if you want to save money while also increasing productivity.
But if we are honest, creating one and actually getting people to follow it is a whole other ball game.
Booking out of policy, handing in tired looking receipts or reserving the most expensive tickets, because: “Hey, it’s not my money”, are just some of the scenarios that you are going to face if you don’t have one.
These things all use valuable time and resources that could be spent chasing sales and improving productivity.
This is where SWR Business Direct can save you time and money.
The platform allows you book rail travel across the entire national network and all you pay is the ticket price.
rules built right into the system
You can bake your guidelines directly into the booking process.
If your policy says “standard class only” or requires booking advance tickets, the platform can enforce it automatically. No more awkward conversations about bookings.
track each journey
Not only can you track aspects such as carbon footprint and ticket savings, but you can also record the reasons for travel, job numbers and client names. The choice is yours.
one simple invoice
Say goodbye to a mountain of individual expense reports. Everything goes onto centralised billing, meaning less paperwork for staff and total transparency for finance teams.
Essentially, it turns your travel policy from a dusty document nobody reads into a seamless, automated system.
The team gets an incredibly easy way to book their train journeys and you get total peace of mind that you’re staying on budget.
key details: SWR Business Direct
SWR Business Direct is free to use and allows companies to book, plan and manage business travel across the whole of Britain. There are no hidden fees or charges and no booking fees on tickets purchased via the service.
Back in 2011, London Oktoberfest staged its first event in the UK in Millwall Park, aiming to bring a flavour of the famed German celebrations to the capital.
Over the years, it has become an annual fixture in the city’s calendar, having hosted parties in the likes of Ealing, Moorgate and Turnpike Lane.
The irrepressible Carsten Raun has been organising the events since the very beginning and said he was delighted to once again be bringing the beer, bratwurst and music to the capital.
He said: “Our tent can welcome up to 2,000 people – inside you’ll find a giant bar, a stage with live music and entertainment plus many rows of tables and benches.
“You can choose to sit with your group or with others and, hopefully, by the end of the event you’ll have made new friends.
“Our focus is always to create a wonderful, friendly atmosphere in the tent, which this year will be decorated to give a feeling of being in the Bavarian mountains.
“Our staff will be wearing traditional dress, which adds to the fun.
“I think the appeal is that both the British and the Germans enjoy beer and having a good time – that’s exactly what London Oktoberfest is about.
“The event is attractive to all kinds of different people.
“On the first night, especially, we have companies attending with their guests.
“There’s a feel of networking as well as the celebration.
“The thing I enjoy most about it is that we’re bringing something positive – an event those attending can really enjoy.
“I love it when people come dressed up.
“It’s great fun to think of the Tube filled with lederhosen and dirndls, which is, of course, not normal in London.
“We have traditions, we’re still partnered with the same brewery that was supplying us from 2011 and we serve bratwurst, brezel and schnitzel, because these foods sit perfectly alongside that.
“While the dance floor is often empty at the start of the session, it’s always full by the end, which is a very interesting development.”
The tent has got an upgrade for this year – image supplied by London Oktoberfest
what sessions are on offer?
There are evening sessions from 5pm-11pm on October 1 and 2.
On the Saturday there are two slots from 11am-4pm and 5.30pm-11pm.
“My favourite session is actually the Saturday afternoon, which is designed for people who are coming from further away,” said Carsten.
“The mood is a little different and, for me, it’s the best.”
how much does it cost?
Entry to the event starts at £10.
Visitors can choose the Bavarian Ticket from £35, which includes a mass of Festbeer, a bratwurst roll with sauerkraut and a shot of Underberg.
Various VIP options are also available starting at £55 per head which include reserved seating, table service, drinks and food.
Corporate guests can also choose to add on Tyrolean clothing for those keen to rock the lederhosen or a dirndl.
The festival will again be located in Finsbury Park – image supplied by London Oktoberfest
how do I get there?
London Oktoberfest is a short walk from Finsbury Park station, which is served by the Victoria and Piccadilly lines as well as national rail trains. The station is also on a multitude of bus routes.
From Canary Wharf, the easiest journey is to take the Elizabeth Line to Liverpool Street, cut through the underpass to Moorgate and catch a direct train to Finsbury Park.
London Oktoberfest offers corporate packages – image supplied by London Oktoberfest
key details: London Oktoberfest
London Oktoberfest is set to take place at Finsbury Park is set to take place from October 1-3, 2026. Tickets start at £10.
