Wapping’s days as a working dock are long past, but they have left the area steeped in history and character. Here is how to spend a day in this unique area in the heart of London’s East End.

9am

Arrive in Wapping – there are three easy ways to get here: if the weather is good, hop on the Thames Clipper, which runs between Putney and Woolwich, and get off at Tower Millennium Pier. If you prefer the bus it’s the 100 or D3 bus routes. Or take the Overground train and alight at Wapping Station.

First up, breakfast and there’s no better recommendation than Tom's Kitchen, which overlooks St Katharine Docks.This modern British brasserie, owned by Tom Aikens, the youngest British chef to be awarded two Michelin Stars, serves ethically sourced ingredients and a mean breakfast at the weekend – highlights include ‘Tom’s Full English’ and Smoked Haddock Kedgeree. If you’re visiting the area on a weekday, Côte serves a French spin on breakfast and overlooks the Docks.

10.30am

Staying in the Docks, grab a quick takeaway coffee (if needed) from White Mulberries, an independent café that serves excellent coffees from the UK and around the world. Then on to The Alexander Miles Gallery for some culture and high-quality art.

1pm

Walk along the river into central Wapping for a leisurely lunch at il Bordello, a quintessential local Italian restaurant famous for its generous portions.

3pm

Time to walk off lunch with a stroll around St Katharine Docks, a chance to browse the unique shops and don’t forget to take in the views of the iconic Tower Bridge, Tower of London, the City Skyline and The Shard. If you have the energy, why not visit the Tower of London and take a guided tour with one of the famous Yeoman Warders? One word of advice – do not call the Yeoman Warders Beefeaters.

5pm

More exploring, this time along the historic cobbled streets of Wapping and perhaps calling in at one Wapping’s historic riverside pubs for a pre-dinner drink. We recommend three:

• The Prospect of Whitby – one of the most famous pubs in London, dating back to 1543. In the 17th century it had a reputation as a meeting place for smugglers and villains, and became known as the Devil’s Tavern. It was burnt down in the 18th century, rebuilt and renamed after a ship moored nearby.
• The Captain Kidd – named after one of Britain's most colourful outlaws who was ultimately hanged at Execution Dock (now Savills office) in 1701. Cosy on a winter’s day, or a good spot in the summer when the riverside terrace is a great place from which to enjoy views of the city.
• The Town of Ramsgate – the first pub on this site dates from 1460 and claims to be London’s oldest riverside pub. Directly next to the pub is the famous Wapping Old Stairs: during low tide you can still see the post where condemned pirates were chained and left to wait for high tide. More happily, it’s also where returning sailors were met by their sweethearts. Look out for the verse on the wall of the pub – it's the answer to the silent question on many sailors' lips...

8pm

Have dinner at Smiths Restaurant. Its motto is ‘Famous for Fish’, and with its floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of the River Thames and Tower Bridge, it's also spectacular after dark when the bridges are lit up.

9.30pm

Round off your day at Dickens Inn. Often described as the most atmospheric spot in the whole of London, the inn was opened by Cedric Charles Dickens, grandson of Charles. Enjoy a glass of wine on one of the balconies and admire the luxury yachts moored in the marina.

Further information

Contact Savills Wapping for more details or view available properties for sale in Wapping