Boisdale Of Canary Wharf
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Ensemble Festival set to surround Royal Victoria Dock with shows

Certain Blacks’ free programme of performances is set to return on July 25 and 26, 2026, to the quayside at east London’s Royal Docks

Balance by Brainfools explores attitudes to alcohol via acrobatics and will be appearing at Ensemble Festival - image by Pablo Herrera
Balance by Brainfools explores attitudes to alcohol via acrobatics and will be appearing at Ensemble Festival – image by Pablo Herrera

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Get Clive Lyttle talking about Ensemble Festival and, before long, he’ll be overtaken by a surge of enthusiasm and anticipation.

As artistic director of Certain Blacks, the company behind the free summer event, there’s a sense he almost can’t believe the variety, quality and mischief he’s about to unleash.

Gearing up for its seventh edition, the programme is once again a celebration of circus, dance, comedy and theatre that promises to be “bold, joyful and thought-provoking” while remaining suitable for all ages.

“This one is going to be a bit of a treat,” said Clive.

“It’s bigger this year and we’re lucky to be stretching out our footprint with performances outside City Hall and all the way round the docks to include Cris Clown’s Unidentified Flying Object (In Female) who’ll be suspended in the middle of a public space, interrupting the everyday with absurdity and surprise.

“What we want to do is to reach out to everybody to come along. In troubled and worrying times, come down and have some really good fun over the weekend.

“We’re working in partnership with the Royal Docks Team and the festival coincides with the launch of the Royal Docks Summer Splash free lido and the T100 Triathlon at Excel.

“I live locally in Royal Docks and we’re all mates – we all talk to each other and it’s in everybody’s interests to make the area a really happening place.”

Certain Blacks artistic director Clive Lyttle - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
Certain Blacks artistic director Clive Lyttle – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

new commissions through Without Walls

Originally a jazz guitarist, Clive founded Certain Blacks after 17 years working for Arts Council England with the aim of supporting a wide range of diverse artists.

This year’s Ensemble Festival is no exception with a free weekend programme that features five new commissions through partner Without Walls which specialises in helping artists to make new work and then perform it in collaboration with 35 festival producers including Certain Blacks and the Greenwich And Docklands International Festival.

Clive said: “I was recently asked by a group of young black men where I was from – ‘Are you from Somalia? No. Are you from Jamaica? No. So you think you are British? Why? You aren’t from here?’.  

“I was born in Lewisham Hospital, the same place my mum worked all her life and where she died, so this is where I’m from. 

“The work in the festival touches on this conversation of identity and what it is to be diverse, or different or care about the world.

“There are so many highlights, but I’m really looking forward to a collaboration between Talwa Theatre, Fubunation and Sonia Hughes called Fragments Of Us.

“It’s a piece that asks questions about how you react when you see a group of black boys, black men – about people’s inner fears.

“But it’s fun too, it’s not just heavy – it puts these topics into a contemporary outdoor theatre context.

“Then we have a show called Garbh, which means womb.

“It’s by Shyam Dattani and Mirat Salat and mixes contemporary and Gujarati folk dancing to give voice to an under represented ancestral form using sound and movement.

“Something I’m very pleased with is our joint commission from Daughters Of The Wire.

“It’s called ElevateHer and features female artists on tightropes.

“It asks lots of questions about women’s roles in society and there aren’t many female high wire artists so it’s wonderful to host a group like this.”

Garbh by Shyam Dattani and Mirat Salat - image by Anne Tetzlaff
Garbh by Shyam Dattani and Mirat Salat – image by Anne Tetzlaff

building artists up at Ensemble Festival

The commission is also evidence of Ensemble Festival helping artists flourish.

One of the co-founders of the collective, Poppy Plowman performed a smaller solo work at last year’s event and appeared as part of Gorilla Circus in 2023.

While she’s not appearing in this show, Clive said he was delighted the company had gone on to win a larger commission.

“Out final show in partnership with Without Walls is The Torch by Nigel ‘Kobby’ Taylor, which is all about whether he’s going to follow in the footsteps of his grandfather or be a bit more realistic about life in Hull,” said Clive.

“It uses afrobeat, hip hop and storytelling to explore heartbreak and displacement and it’s got a really fantastic female bass player.”

But the festival doesn’t stop at these commissions, offering a wide selection of attractions to see over the two days.

Other highlights include Stick And Stone by Ferdinando + Bernstein, which uses physical comedy and imagery to “confront the loss of all wild things” and Balance by Brainfools, where performers use beer kegs, bottles and planks to create a playground and explore attitudes to drinking.

“This year we’re also bringing over three shows from Catalonia, which includes Cris The Clown,” said Clive. 

“Each year, I visit Catalonia for a showcase of performances from all around the world as well as work by local artists and we’ve selected these to be a part of Ensemble Festival.

“One of the shows is called Domte, by Nacho Flores, which is performed by a street circus duo and features live music as well as playing with mythology. 

“It has real echoes of Don Quixote and is about tilting at the modern world, the slowing down of stuff and the delicate balance of the ecosystem. 

“The other piece we’re bringing over is called Water Silhouettes, by Teatro En Movimiento Callejerx.

“It’s about water waste and we’ll be finding a few thousand plastic bottles to use as part of the show.

“It brings together Spanish contemporary theatre with ideas of conservation and I’m really looking forward to it.”

Also performing at the festival will be Cormac Mohally, whose Captain C-Man show promises audiences the chance to help him achieve “the greatest and most dangerous juggling trick in the universe”. 

Famous as one half of Britain’s Got Talent contenders Lords Of Strut, Cormac is all set for a performance that comes out of a suitcase and aims to act as a showcase of skills as its eponymous hero spreads the appeal of circus far and wide. 

Fragments Of Us has been commissioned for the festival through Without Walls - image by Ciara Hillyer
Fragments Of Us has been commissioned for the festival through Without Walls – image by Ciara Hillyer

key details: Ensemble Festival

Ensemble Festival runs from noon-8pm on both July 25 and 26, 2026, at various locations around Royal Victoria Dock.

Visit Certain Blacks’ website here for full listings across the weekend.  

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Argenta show apartments unveiled by Guinness Homes in E16

Inspired by place: We take a look inside the thoughtfully designed homes at this Royal Docks scheme

One-bedroom homes start at £97,500 for a 25% share of an apartment – image supplied by Guinness Homes
One-bedroom homes start at £97,500 for a 25% share of an apartment – image supplied by Guinness Homes

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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Set within the heart of east London’s ambitious regeneration at the Royal Docks, Argenta is offering buyers the opportunity to step onto the property ladder in one of the capital’s most exciting emerging neighbourhoods. 

To help prospective purchasers envision life at the development, Guinness Homes has unveiled two show homes, each inspired by Silvertown’s rich heritage and evolving identity.

Created by interior design studio Dapa Atelier, the one and two-bedroom show homes have been thoughtfully styled to demonstrate how buyers can make the most of the contemporary apartments available through Shared Ownership at Argenta. 

While each show home has its own distinct personality, both draw inspiration from the local area, celebrating Silvertown’s industrial past, waterside setting and bright future.

The one-bedroom show home has been designed with a first-time buyer in mind. 

Imagined for a single purchaser or couple embarking on their homeownership journey, the space embraces warmth, texture and natural materials to create an inviting and practical environment. 

Drawing on the area’s industrial heritage, the design incorporates cork wall coverings, raffia and cane detailing, woven fabrics and carefully selected accessories that add depth and character.

Bespoke touches throughout the space reinforce a sense of connection to the local area. 

Artwork created from burlap and cushions crafted from repurposed grain sacks offer subtle references to Silvertown’s history, creating a scheme that feels contemporary while acknowledging the neighbourhood’s past.

In contrast, the two-bedroom show home presents a bolder and more refined aesthetic, designed to appeal to buyers seeking their next step on the property ladder.

Inspired by Silvertown’s waterside location and industrial legacy, the interiors feature rich copper tones, deep blues and art deco influences that bring a sense of sophistication and individuality to the space.

Throughout the home, bespoke artwork and carefully curated finishes reference the energy and transformation of the Royal Docks, reflecting the area’s evolution into one of London’s most exciting new residential destinations.

For Dapa Atelier, the aim was to create interiors that feel both aspirational and achievable, offering practical ideas that buyers can adapt to suit their own lifestyles.

The design of the show homes is intended to inspire buyers with what's possible – image supplied by Guinness Homes
The design of the show homes is intended to inspire buyers with what’s possible – image supplied by Guinness Homes

achievable aspiration

Rob Burton, co-founder at Dapa Atelier, said: “Our brief for Argenta was to create homes that feel aspirational but still genuinely achievable for buyers. 

“We wanted each space to feel considered and design-led, without tipping into something that feels over-styled or unrealistic.

“For the one-bedroom home, we focused on texture and natural materials to create a calm, tactile environment that still makes a statement.

“It’s about showing how even a smaller space can feel elevated, while remaining practical for everyday living.

“The two-bedroom home takes a slightly bolder approach, drawing on Silvertown’s industrial heritage and waterside setting.

“Copper, rich tones and art deco influences all come through, creating a space that feels more refined and design-conscious, suited to buyers who are ready for their next step.”

One and two-bedroom apartments are available at Argenta - image supplied by Guinness Homes
One and two-bedroom apartments are available at Argenta – image supplied by Guinness Homes

practicality and style

Across both show homes, practicality sits alongside aesthetics. Integrated storage solutions, multi-functional furniture and carefully considered layouts demonstrate how the apartments can support modern lifestyles. 

Flexible spaces can accommodate home working, entertaining and overnight guests, while generous living and dining areas maximise usability.

Hellyn Fairbrother, London and South East sales manager at Guinness Homes, said: “Working with Dapa Atelier, we wanted to create show homes that not only look beautiful, but help buyers imagine how they could make a home at Argenta their own. 

“The schemes demonstrate how thoughtful design choices can transform a space while remaining practical for everyday living.”

Part of the wider Silvertown regeneration, Argenta benefits from a prime location, moments from West Silvertown DLR and just one stop from Canning Town, placing Canary Wharf, the City and beyond within easy reach. 

Residents can also enjoy growing local amenities, waterside walks and access to open green spaces, all within a neighbourhood undergoing significant investment and transformation.

The development offers a collection of one and two-bedroom shared ownership apartments, each featuring contemporary interiors, private outdoor space and access to landscaped communal areas.

Prices start at £97,500 for a 25% share of a one-bedroom apartment (full market value £390,000), while two-bedroom apartments start at £136,25 for a 25% share (full market value £545,000).

Find out more about the development here

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Summer Daze Festival brings four-day programme to Wood Wharf

Event aimed at showcasing the Canary Wharf area with free performances in Union Square and ticketed events in the Hazy Daze Tent

The Summer Daze Festival is set to take place from July 23-26, 2026 - image supplied by Canary Wharf Group
The Summer Daze Festival is set to take place from July 23-26, 2026 – image supplied by Canary Wharf Group

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Wood Wharf is set to become the focus of the warm weather, with four days of events, arts and happenings this month.

The Summer Daze Festival runs from July 23-26, 2026, and is a fresh initiative from Canary Wharf Group aimed at drawing crowds down to the likes of Union Square, Water Street and Harbour Quay Gardens.

“We really want to showcase how amazing this neighbourhood is,” said Camilla McGregor, event manager at CWG.

“It has a different feel to other parts of Canary Wharf and so lends itself perfectly to this sort of festival.

“We’ll be hosting comedy, theatre, music and lots of different events for families across the four days.

“It won’t just be us either. Many of the retailers such as Crate and new opening, Potato Art Studio, will be joining in as well.”

Wood Wharf has continued to come alive in recent months, with hospitality offerings from the likes of Ong Lai Kopitaim, Nora, Signorelli, Cafe Seek, Supershakes, Lockdown, Osteria Al Molo and Mama Li all now trading in the area.

A little further west, Wharfers can find Dishoom, Feels Like June, Emilia’s Crafted Pasta, MMy Wood Wharf, Hawksmoor and Patty And Bun, all presenting tantalising options.

At the heart of the festival programme will be the Hazy Daze Tent in Harbour Quay Gardens. 

The programme includes three nights of stand-up comedy in the Hazy Daze Tent - image supplied by Canary Wharf Group
The programme includes three nights of stand-up comedy in the Hazy Daze Tent – image supplied by Canary Wharf Group

tickets for comedy and family fun

“Among the events hosted inside will be three comedy nights, headlined by Milton Jones (July 23) Lou Sanders (July 24) and Sarah Keyworth (July 25),” said Camilla.

“Each night will feature four acts and tickets cost £16.50, including booking fees, and the shows start at 7pm. 

“The tent will also be used for the Big Fish Little Fish Family Rave on July 25 at 2pm, which is always so much fun, with confetti cannons and dancing.

“We’ll also be putting on Baby Broadway (July 26) with songs from hit musicals, bubbles and puppets – great for kids aged 0-7 – and the Comedy Club For Kids (July 26) for children aged 6+, which sees established stand-ups present their acts without the rude bits.

“Times and prices for these vary, depending on the show, but you can find all the information online.”

In addition to the ticketed shows, Summer Daze also boasts an extensive programme of free events, with the majority taking place in Union Square. 

Musicians from the Docklands Sinfonia will play a series of gigs in Union Square - image supplied by Canary Wharf Group
Musicians from the Docklands Sinfonia will play a series of gigs in Union Square – image supplied by Canary Wharf Group

free music and theatre at Summer Daze Festival

“These will be presented on a first come, first-served basis as with other such offerings in Canary Wharf,” said Camilla.

“We’ll have a mix of theatre including Pews At Ten (July 23, 8.15pm) by Novem Ensemble and hosted in partnership with The Space Theatre.

“It’s a light-hearted musical comedy set in a church where three Welsh grandmas are anticipating a visit from Tom Jones.

“440 Theatre will perform their take on A Midsummer Night’s Dream (July 25, 6.30pm) and we’ll also be welcoming Let’s All Dance: Alice In Wonderland, earlier that day, for a performance (11am) and movement workshop (11.45am) for kids themed around the classic, fantastical tale.”

Various groups of musicians from east London ensemble, the Docklands Sinfonia, will also be performing at the festival.

There will be brass on July 23, the Fliss Gorst Jazz Trio on July 24 (both noon-2pm), the orchestra’s Street Band on July 25 from 1pm-3pm and the Swing Funk And Pop collective on July 26 from 4pm-6pm.

Another highlight will be Agency Unknown’s Musical Bingo on July 24, from 7pm-9.30pm.

Teams of two or more (£11 per person) are invited to head down to Union Square for a “high-energy mix of hit tunes, games and prizes”.

Audiences can expect sassy hosts, dancers, plenty of surprises and a show-stopping finale.

Festival-goers should also look out for face-painting, Bollywood dancing, a poetry takeaway and the opportunity to make a fancy hat, with full details available for all online.

Camilla said: “It is great to bring an event like this to the programme, to entertain the people who live in the neighbourhood and those visiting – hopefully they get to see all the other amazing things we offer here.

“Almost everything we do from an arts and events perspective is free and, when we do have tickets, they are always subsidised.

“Anyone who gets into Summer Daze will also enjoy our wider summer arts series, from buskers on Eden Dock to lunchtime classical concerts in Jubilee Park, our lunch markets, our Film Club and so much more.

“We are really lucky to have so many green spaces to sit in and blue spaces for people to explore.”

Visitors can look forward to free theatre performances - image supplied by Canary Wharf Group
Visitors can look forward to free theatre performances – image supplied by Canary Wharf Group

key details: Summer Daze Festival

The Summer Daze Festival is set to run across Wood Wharf from July 23-26, 2026.

There are 20 events taking place over those dates, some free and others ticketed.

You can find full listings and booking links via Canary Wharf’s site here

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Timewalk immersive exhibition set to open at Excel London in July

Immerse LDN ready to welcome a second new attraction on the waterfront following unveiling of House Of Dreamers, ready to launch in June

Timewalk is coming to Excel London in July, 2026 - image supplied by DEM Museums
Timewalk is coming to Excel London in July, 2026 – image supplied by DEM Museums

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It’s just a jump to the left, and then a step to the right.

Put your hands on your hips, you bring your knees in tight.

But it’s the pelvic thrust, that really drives you…

No. Hang on. This is a preview of Timewalk. 

Hot on the heels of House Of Dreamers, Immerse LDN has done it again with the unveiling of another attraction at Excel’s waterfront in Royal Docks. 

While DEM Museums’ offering has nothing to do with the Rocky Horror Show other than a tenuous similarity to the title of its catchiest song, the experience does promise “spectacular audio and visual storytelling”.

Billed as an immersive walk-through, Timewalk takes visitors on a journey from Göbeklitepe (“the moment humanity moves beyond survival to create ritual, meaning, and collective consciousness,” apparently) to encounter the early civilisations of Babylon, Ancient Egypt, the Maya and Rapa Nui (Easter Island).

The attraction uses “cinematic storytelling” with environments intended to recreate what it was like to be in some of these places.

The attraction promises visitors a walk through ancient civilisations - image supplied by DEM Museums
The attraction promises visitors a walk through ancient civilisations – image supplied by DEM Museums

bringing the past to life

“Ancient civilisations represent an extraordinary heritage that has fundamentally reshaped everything we know about human history,” said Eda Bildiricioglu, CEO of DEM.

“We believe it is a great responsibility to present this heritage accurately to global audiences.

“At DEM, our core mission is storytelling through history. 

“However, we do not do this through conventional methods; we transform it into immersive, multi-sensory experiences through advanced technology.

“We remind people of what has been forgotten and teach what is unknown.

 “With 35 years of experience in visual and auditory technologies and having contributed to the realisation of 18 museums and cultural complexes, along with earning 15 global awards through the Hagia Sophia and Ephesus Experience Museums, our goal is to bring together the universal narratives of ancient civilisations. 

“By interpreting these through a contemporary storytelling language, we aim to help visitors form deeper and more lasting connections with cultural heritage.”

The show takes in Egypt, Rapa Nui, Babylon and more - image supplied by DEM Museums
The show takes in Egypt, Rapa Nui, Babylon and more – image supplied by DEM Museums

a growing attraction

The exhibition is the latest attraction to be announced at Immerse LDN, with House Of Dreamers set to open this month.

Damian Norman, director, immersive entertainment at Excel London and Immerse LDN, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Timewalk and to collaborate with the multi award-winning team at DEM, a global leader in technology-driven cultural storytelling. 

“Its unique approach to combining historical research with advanced immersive technologies is redefining how audiences engage with heritage at scale.

“Since launching, Immerse LDN has introduced more than 10 groundbreaking immersive experiences to London, selling 1.7million tickets and further cementing the capital’s reputation as a world-leading destination for immersive entertainment and cultural experiences. 

“Timewalk represents another significant step in that journey, bringing a truly world-class cultural experience to the heart of the city.”

Visitors will, of course, decide for themselves whether the time slip will prove a bit of a mind flip and leave them spaced out on sensation.

With apologies to Richard O’Brien. 

key details: Timewalk

Timewalk is set to open at Immerse LDN at Excel’s Waterfront in Royal Victoria Dock on July 23, 2026.

Ticket prices for the exhibition start at £28.50, with booking now open.

The attraction will be open daily from 10am-7pm daily and lasts between an hour and 90 minutes.

You can find out more about the attraction here

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University Of Sunderland In London hosts Isle Of Dogs open day

The institution will welcome prospective students to its Harbour Exchange campus in east London close to Canary Wharf on July 11, 2026

Recruitment and conversion manager at the University Of Sunderland In London, Harpal Larr - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
Recruitment and conversion manager at the University Of Sunderland In London, Harpal Larr – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

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Harpal Larr is a champion of education.

In his role as student recruitment and conversion manager at the University Of Sunderland In London, he’s responsible for showcasing what the institution has to offer to prospective students.

But beyond increasing the numbers enrolling at its Isle Of Dogs campus, there’s a wider mission.

“While a lot of other universities focus on selling their courses, our goal is quite different,” he said.

“We’re very conscious of the role that we play in the community.

“If we’re able to go into schools and colleges, explain the benefits of studying at university and then see people decide to continue their education, then we’ve achieved something big, whether that’s with us or somewhere else.”

Having opened its new £10million campus in 2025, the University Of Sunderland In London is, however, also preparing to showcase its facilities next month.

Based at Harbour Exchange, it offers a wide range of courses in business, management, finance, nursing, health, tourism and hospitality as well as opportunities for postgraduate research.

To help students understand more about what’s on offer, the university will host an open day on July 11, 2026, from 1pm-4.30pm.

The university's LSEG Fintech Lab - image supplied by UOSiL
The university’s LSEG Fintech Lab – image supplied by UOSiL

welcoming visitors to the open day

“It will be run by our recruitment and admissions team with the support of student ambassadors,” said Harpal.

“Students coming in on the day will get a presentation about life at university, an insight into what we offer here – not just the courses, but also the support.

“There will be a video from our graduates, to give an idea of what students can go on to do too.

“Then there will be a chance for visitors to speak to our staff, get assistance with making applications and even help applying on the day, if they would like to.

“There will also be tours of the campus, to see all the different facilities to help prospective students make an informed decision.

“For us, a big part of that is the student ambassadors.

“They can give visitors real personal insight into what they can look forward to if they study with us.

“This will be our second open day since we opened this campus.

“Having these facilities gives us a lot more to showcase and to offer so that prospective students and their families can really see what’s on offer.”

The university campus is located at Harbour Exchange close to Canary Wharf - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
The university campus is located at Harbour Exchange close to Canary Wharf – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

catering for diversity

The university is well versed in dealing with the needs of a diverse student body that includes people coming from overseas to study in the UK as well as mature individuals seeking further education for a range of reasons including improved employment prospects. 

“I studied marketing at Middlesex University and then found a natural route to working there in marketing,” said Harpal. 

“My role gave me experience across that department and I really liked student engagement, so became a manager there working on that before moving into recruitment.

“I joined the University Of Sunderland In London in 2021 in a similar role as we look to increase the number of people from the UK enrolling here.

“To achieve that, one of the things we do in our department is to go into schools and colleges in the community, as well as recruitment fairs, so we can talk to prospective students directly.

“It’s also to raise awareness of who we are and what we do – that we are located on the Isle Of Dogs right next to Canary Wharf.

“That we have that proximity to the financial district and the companies that are based there is to our advantage and it’s something we can really shout about.

“Our teams work really hard to engage with the businesses here to secure both expertise and work experience opportunities for our students that will help them in their careers.

“Just walking over to us from the station really opens their eyes to what we have here and the environment they will be studying in.

“The building we have now is also fantastic with facilities such as our mock hospital ward and our fintech lab.

“One of the things we are looking for are more local education partners within a 10-mile radius that we can work with to help students find the right path.”

The simulation ward at the University Of Sunderland In London - image supplied by UOSiL
The simulation ward at the University Of Sunderland In London – image supplied by UOSiL

a strong student culture

Harpal said that, beyond the courses on offer, the culture of the university was also a key selling point.

“A lot of work goes into making students feel welcome here, whether they are international students or from the UK,” he said.

“What I enjoy here is the fact that the student body mixes very well, we have a lot of events and activities.

“We have a great student union space that hosts lots of activities and acts as a meeting space for those studying here.

 “What I find most rewarding, however, is seeing students progress into jobs in the fields they’re gaining qualifications in.

“I know from my personal experience how beneficial a university degree can be.

“It feels really good when you see people you’ve engaged with choose to come to your university and then to embark on a career that is aligned with the course they’ve been on.

“The teams here do a lot of work to ensure that our courses are giving graduates the skills they need in the workplace. 

“We are constantly evolving our offering and there’s a big emphasis on giving students practical experience that will be of use to them in their careers.

“I’d love anyone who’s interested to come along to our open day and see what we offer.” 

Secretary of state for education, Bridget Philipson MP, opens the new campus in the presence of University Of Sunderland chancellor Leanne Cahill, vice-chancellor Sir David Bell, Alan, deputy directors of the University Of Sunderland In London, Lynsey Bendon and Geoff Paul and head of marketing, recruitment and admissions, Jelena Miljanic – image by UOSiL
In 2025, secretary of state for education, Bridget Philipson MP, opened the £10million campus in the presence of University Of Sunderland chancellor Leanne Cahill, vice-chancellor Sir David Bell, Alan, deputy directors of the University Of Sunderland In London, Lynsey Bendon and Geoff Paul and head of marketing, recruitment and admissions, Jelena Miljanic – image by UOSiL

key details: University Of Sunderland In London open day

The next open day at the University Of Sunderland In London is set to take place at the Harbour Exchange campus on July 11, 2026, and will run from 1pm-4.30pm.

Open days are also planned for September 12 and November 26. 

The university also offers personal consultations that allow prospective students to explore the institution’s facilities and courses. 

Those wishing to attend either an open day or a consultation can register online here

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Sea Lanes Canary Wharf opens 50m swimming pool at Eden Dock

Six-lane floating facility comes with saunas and an extensive outdoor bar and food offering complete with weatherproof glazed igloos

Sea Lanes Canary Wharf will open to the public on June 19, 2026 - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
Sea Lanes Canary Wharf will open to the public on June 19, 2026 – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

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Something big is happening at the western end of Eden Dock.

Sea Lanes Canary Wharf officially opens to the public on Friday, June 19, 2026.

The site features a 50-metre floating pool fed by the waters of the dock, saunas and changing facilities.

Taking a dip costs £10 a go, but Sea Lanes has a great deal more to offer than just splashing about.

Wharfers seeking a place to relax by the waters will find a new complex of pergolas, tin roofs, glazed weatherproof igloos and extensive seating all served by a bar and on-site kitchen.

Earlier this week, Sea Lanes Canary Wharf hosted a preview event in partnership with Canary Wharf Group complete with a friendly relay race and a chance to get a sneak peek at the facilities before the public dive in.

Sea Lanes managing director, Ross Gilbert addresses the preview event - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
Sea Lanes managing director, Ross Gilbert addresses the preview event – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

for swimmers who want to try open water

“Sea Lanes began with a very simple idea – to create a stepping stone that would encourage more people to get into open water swimming and to make that accessible for everybody,” said Ross Gilbert, managing director at Sea Lanes.

“That vision was realised when we opened our pool in Brighton. Since then we’ve opened Hilsea a month ago and now Canary Wharf.

“We have six lanes and finely crafted saunas – this will be a facility that helps people to explore the wider Eden Dock.”

In addition to the floating pool, Sea Lanes also intends to offer dock swimming, paddleboarding, freediving and open water events from its base close to Newfoundland tower.

The facilities include a six-lane floating pool fed by Eden Dock - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
The facilities include a six-lane floating pool fed by Eden Dock – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

part of Canary Wharf’s evolution

Canary Wharf Group CEO, Shobi Khan, said the estate had been focused on the water for six years starting with the opening of the boardwalk at Harbour Quay Gardens and four years of open water swimming at Eden Dock. 

 He said: “Everyone who has worked on this project deserves a big round of applause.

“Two years ago some folks from Sea Lanes were present when we opened Eden Dock during a virtual monsoon – that was the start of this evolution.

“This is a unique environment and will hopefully become the envy of London.

“These really are amazing facilities that Sea Lanes has created in partnership with Canary Wharf Group.”

There are on-site saunas for swimmers to warm up in - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
There are on-site saunas for swimmers to warm up in – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

inspiring for London

Also attending the preview was deputy mayor of London for environment and energy, Mete Coban.

He said: “What I think this project here today does is to inspire the whole city.

“We need to reimagine how we can use spaces to make London healthier – a place people can thrive in. I don’t know how to swim.

“I was one of those people who didn’t have access to affordable swimming lessons when I was growing up. 

“This and access to nature are still big racial and social justice issues today.

“One of the things we will be doing in the capital is selecting specific sites where we’ll take inspiration from this vision and create more access to safe swimming, because we know that 700,000 Londoners currently do not know how to swim.

“It isn’t just about having the infrastructure, however, it’s about the work that happens with the community so they feel a sense of ownership.

“This is a flagship project and I want to thank Canary Wharf Group and Sea Lanes because it takes real courage to be able to imagine these spaces – what it was then and what it is now.”

Sea Lanes Canary Wharf includes extensive hospitality facilities with a bar and fresh food offering - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
Sea Lanes Canary Wharf includes extensive hospitality facilities with a bar and fresh food offering – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

key details: Sea Lanes Canary Wharf

After launching on June 19, 2026, Sea Lanes Canary Wharf will be open for swimming from 6am-9pm on weekdays and from 7am-7pm at weekends. The wider site is open until 10.30pm.

Pay-as-you-go swimming sessions cost £10 with swim and sauna costing £18. Concessions are available. 

Various levels of membership are also available with Founder Membership costing £75 per month for unlimited swim and sauna access for a year-long contract.

Swim Only memberships start at £45 per month for a year.

Find out more about the floating swimming pool here

The new facility is already making a splash - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
The new facility is already making a splash – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

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Vagabond Urban Winery gears up for first harvest in Canada Water

Winemaking facility, restaurant and bar aims to bring people closer to production and allows them to sample wines made in south-east London

Vagabond has opened an Urban Winery in Canada Water - image by Saltwick Media
Vagabond has opened an Urban Winery in Canada Water – image by Saltwick Media

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The labels on the bottles of wine Vagabond makes itself come decorated with ink sketches of a fox.

As to why, Christobell Giles said the species was a good fit for the brand – curious, adventurous and able to thrive in unexpected places. 

“It’s also an animal that’s come from the countryside into the city and flourished, which is similar to what we’re doing with our new urban winery in Canada Water – taking grapes grown in the UK and turning them into wonderful wines in London,” she said.

The facility is the brand’s second winemaking site in the capital, but it’s on a bigger scale than the Battersea Power Station operation and, along with a forthcoming return to Canary Wharf, feels part of a newly energised expansion.

Originally conceived as a wine shop in 2010, the business evolved into a series of bar and tasting venues with self-serve machines enabling guests to sample an extensive range of bottles in small measures or by the glass. 

The pandemic wasn’t kind to the operation, however, and the company collapsed into administration in 2024, battling debts built up over Covid and rising costs.

Rather than close though, wine retailer Majestic purchased the business.

It appointed Christobell – who’d joined Vagabond in 2023 as operations director – to the role of managing director to oversee the chain’s growth.

Vagabond managing directo, Christobell Giles - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
Vagabond managing directo, Christobell Giles – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

bitten by the hospitality bug

“I have to pinch myself sometimes,” she said. “I studied law at Birmingham University, specialising in French law.

“I did a year in Bordeaux – I didn’t even like wine before I went, but the students there said they would get me into it and it was amazing.

“You could jump on a train for €5 and take the free tram around the vineyards – a day out in one of the best wine regions in the world.

“That’s where it started for me.”

Bitten by the hospitality bug, she joined Mitchells And Butlers and spent 20 years in the sector working with brands such as Megan’s and Wagamama.

“I loved operations – being out and about and seeing people,” she said.

“It was a constant change of scenery and always new problems to deal with. 

“At its heart, Vagabond has always been about connecting people to wine.

“Just as offering food was a natural evolution of what it was doing to start with, the next step was asking whether we should be bringing the production closer to our customers so they can see how what they are drinking is made.

“London has been a wine trading centre for centuries, so allowing people to touch the process, to see it in the city, felt natural. 

“Vagabond started making wine in 2017 but, in the last couple of years, we found we were running out of what we were bottling and selling.

“That’s why we started looking for a new site.

Vagabond winemaker, José Quintana - image by Saltwick Media
Vagabond winemaker, José Quintana – image by Saltwick Media

“José Quintana, our winemaker, and I had this vision of a beautiful, bright, airy space with big windows – somewhere with a warehouse feel that was still at the heart of a community.

“We imagined people coming down from their flats and buying bottles of wine to take away, or maybe coming to enjoy a rosé made in London on the benches outside.

“This was before we even started looking – we were making the space up in our heads.

“We were working with British Land at Broadgate in Liverpool Street and were invited to take a look at Canada Water.

“When we saw the space in the Dock Shed building, it was everything.

“It had high ceilings, we could put a mezzanine in where people could sit and see the wine being made.

“There was space for a big wine tasting table and plenty of room for all the equipment – it was exactly what we wanted.”

Launched in December, the 6,000sq ft venue is hitting its stride, realising the potential of its 100-tonne cellar, extensive winemaking facilities and its drinking and dining spaces.

It offers more than 100 wines by the glass as well as a menu of nibbles, sharing plates and platters of cheese, charcuterie or both. 

The winery itself offers tours, tastings and masterclasses (some of which also feature cheese) and is available to hire for parties, celebrations and even weddings. 

The urban winery boasts a wide range of equipment and facilities - image by Saltwick Media
The urban winery boasts a wide range of equipment and facilities – image by Saltwick Media

extending production

“Expanding our operation here feels like the right step,” said Christobell.

“We’re going to be doing some really cool stuff over the next 12 months.

“This September will be the first harvest we’ll process here since we moved in.

“We’re also experimenting with how we make wine, because we want to be at the forefront of urban vinification.

“We already have a beautiful concrete egg, which gets lots of attention, and José has his mind set on bringing in all sorts of other vessels – clay, or a barrel with a glass lid so people can see the wine fermenting – to help us show how English grapes are turned into wine and to find out how they respond to different methods.

“Our general rule for sourcing grapes is that they are grown within two hours of London and we’ve worked with vineyards in Oxfordshire, Kent, Sussex, Suffolk and Norfolk.

“The nice thing about not having our own is that we can source different areas of the country and decide what wines we want to make – we’re not limited to one particular soil type.

“Hopefully we’ll be making lots of award-winning wines here for many years to come. 

“We sell all of our wines through our bars and our website, so producing in London works on a business level for us, but we think it’s so important to be able to present the grape-to-glass journey for people in the place that they live. 

“My favourite is our Solena (£35 per bottle online) – it’s a really interesting orange wine that’s made from Ortega grapes using a system where you blend newer wine with older vintages to get the taste you want.”

Vagabond's bars offer an extensive range of wines by the glass via self-serve machines - image by Saltwick Media
Vagabond’s bars offer an extensive range of wines by the glass via self-serve machines – image by Saltwick Media

expanding the brand

Vagabond closed its Cabot Square bar in 2024, but the brand is set to return to Canary Wharf with a new branch in Water Street later this year. 

The new opening will be located in the unit recently vacated by Mildred’s and will feature two floors of wine machines and plenty of outdoor seating. 

Wharfers will be able to purchase and enjoy wines made just one Tube stop away when the venue is fully up and running.

No opening date has yet been released.

Vagabond's Pet Not Rose - image by Vagabond
Vagabond’s Pet Not Rose – image by Vagabond

top try


Pet Not Rosé


This cloudy, “frivolous” fizz is a must-try on a suitably scorching day and is available to buy online for £22 per bottle.

Expect sass, crisp flavours and plenty of richness on the tongue from this playful wine

Wines ageing in casks at Canada Water – image by Saltwick Media

key details: Vagabond Urban Winery

Vagabond Urban Winery is located on the ground floor of Dock Shed overlooking Canada Water.

It’s open 4pm-11pm, Monday-Thursday, noon-11pm on Fridays and Saturdays and from noon-10pm on Sundays. 

You can find out more about the venue here

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House Of Dreamers attraction set to arrive at Excel’s Immerse LDN

The exhibition will feature 16 installations by Elena and Giulia Sella spread over 27,000sq ft of space plus AI-powered moments for visitors to enjoy

House Of Dreamers features environments created by Elena and Giulia Sella - image supplied by House Of Dreamers
House Of Dreamers features environments created by Elena and Giulia Sella – image supplied by House Of Dreamers

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Immerse LDN is set to welcome its latest exhibition, House Of Dreamers, in June 2026.

Created by designers Elena and Giulia Sella, the attraction invites visitors to explore a series of 16 immersive installations, spread across 27,000sq ft of space.

The exhibition comes to London with an AI-based update, after being seen by more than 2million people in four European cities. 

Guests of all ages are promised “an emotional journey into the world of dreams” via a blend of design, colour and technology.

New for London, visitors are invited to interact with “AI-powered moments” throughout the exhibition using House Of Dreamers’ DreamBand wearable devices, designed to personalise each experience in real time, meaning no two trips to the attraction are alike. 

Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the exhibition - image supplied by House Of Dreamers
Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the exhibition – image supplied by House Of Dreamers

from Europe to London

“London represents a strategic milestone for House Of Dreamers and a key step in its international expansion,” said Andrea Cecchi, CEO of Postology, the exhibition’s producer.

“After Milan, Rome, Madrid and Paris, we chose London because it is one of the world’s leading creative capitals, where innovation, entertainment and international business converge and shape the future of immersive experiences. 

“To bring this vision to life, we chose Immerse LDN at Excel London – the capital’s newest immersive entertainment district and the UK’s largest destination dedicated to such entertainment. 

“Its international positioning made it the ideal partner to host House Of Dreamers on a global stage.”  

The attraction features AI technology designed to personalise visitors' experiences - image supplied by House Of Dreamers
The attraction features AI technology designed to personalise visitors’ experiences – image supplied by House Of Dreamers

building on a legacy

Immerse LDN is the UK’s largest immersive entertainment district and occupies space along Excel London’s extensive waterfront overlooking the Royal Docks. 

Extending to some 160,000sq ft, it features multiple venue spaces that have welcomed more than 1.7million visitors since launch. 

Previous attractions have included Jurassic World: The Exhibition, The Friends Experience: The One In London, Tutankhamun: The Immersive Exhibition and The Formula 1 Exhibition. 

“We’re thrilled to welcome another internationally acclaimed experience to Immerse LDN and to be collaborating with the visionary team at House of Dreamers,” said Damian Norman, director at Immerse LDN. 

“In its short time since opening, Immerse LDN has brought more than 10 innovative immersive experiences to the capital, all showcasing London’s credentials as a global hub for immersive entertainment and activations.”  

The exhibition will be in east London from June until September - image supplied by House Of Dreamers
The exhibition will be in east London from June until September – image supplied by House Of Dreamers

key details: House Of Dreamers

House Of Dreamers is set to open at Immerse LDN on June 26, 2026.

Ticket prices for the exhibition start at £15.90 and dates through to the end of September are available. 

The attraction will be open daily from 10am on weekdays and from 9am at weekends.

Early booking is advised.  

Find out more about the exhibition here

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Peabody New Homes unveils shared ownership flats at Southmere

The developer and housing association is marketing a collection of affordable apartments at its scheme near Abbey Wood in south-east London

Southmere overlooks Southmere Lake in Abbey Wood - image supplied by Peabody New Homes
Southmere overlooks Southmere Lake in Abbey Wood – image supplied by Peabody New Homes

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Developer and housing association, Peabody has unveiled a collection of shared ownership homes at its Southmere scheme in south-east London’s Abbey Wood.

Released under the name Waterside, the apartments are already proving popular with buyers with 11 reserving properties over the launch weekend. 

One, two and three-bedroom homes are currently available through the scheme, with prices starting at £82,125 for a 25% share in a one-bed.

Buyers can expect balconies and larger properties that are both dual aspect and feature views over either the London skyline or Southmere Lake.

Kitchens come with integrated Bosch appliances and white units, while bathrooms are clad in grey porcelain with black hardware and white sanitaryware. 

Peabody says shared ownership properties can be secured with a deposit of as little as £8,312 with projected monthly outgoings of £1,175. 

The properties feature private balconies - image supplied by Peabody New Homes
The properties feature private balconies – image supplied by Peabody New Homes

a tranquil focus

“We are excited to have launched our new Shared Ownership collection at Southmere, designed to make aspirational waterside living more accessible to prospective homebuyers,” said Raquel Soares, assistant director of sales strategy, intelligence and compliance at Peabody New Homes. 

“With Southmere Lake providing a tranquil focus for the area, our Waterside collection at Southmere places buyers at the heart of this growing neighbourhood. 

“Close to exciting new amenities, exceptional transport links and extensive greenery, Southmere delivers the benefits of buying in one of the capital’s most dynamic regeneration areas. 

“We encourage potential buyers to register their interest as soon as possible to be among the first to find out more.” 

Abbey Wood is still near the beginning of a massive regeneration project that will see the area completely transformed. 

A show home interior at Waterside in Peabody's Southmere scheme - image supplied by Peabody New Homes
A show home interior at Waterside in Peabody’s Southmere scheme – image supplied by Peabody New Homes

connections to Southmere

The arrival of the Elizabeth Line places it within 12 minutes of Canary Wharf. The area also benefits from rail services and a DLR extension to North Thamesmead has been proposed, to further boost connectivity.

Right now, however, new local amenities have already come on stream.

Part of the Southmere scheme, Cygnet Square hosts monthly markets and events while residents are also able to access The Nest Library And Community Space.

The Lakeside Centre, also on the lake, hosts artists studios operated by charity Bow Arts and the Thamesmead Social Cafe.

The area has a striking amount of green space to explore, extending to some 240 acres with Thamesmead home to a further four lakes and at least 7km of canals as well as a river path along the Thames.

key details: Southmere

Pricing for homes in the shared ownership collection at Southmere start at £83,125 for a 25% stake in a one-bedroom apartment, based on a full market value of £332,500

You can find out more about the development here

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