Poplar is synonymous with celebration, and it has been ever since hosting the Festival of Britain in 1951. The party commemorated the recovery from World War II while looking to a future with emerging arts and science scenes that represented a better Britain.
If you’re living in Poplar today, you’ve still got plenty to celebrate. The E14 postcode features stylish, modern homes and sits just two miles from Canary Wharf and the glitz of the Docklands. Poplar might be one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the capital, but it's got plenty to look forward to in the future.
Here are some of the best things to see and do in Poplar.
Chrisp Street Market
Chrisp Street Market is the UK’s oldest purpose-built market and is a primary central hub for the Poplar community. Soak up East End vibes with local boozers, independent stores selling everything from books to beauty products, and pie and mash shops.
As a representation of authentic London culture, Chrisp Street Market is so much more than somewhere to buy a few items. It’s part of the fabric of Poplar and a microcosm of vibrant communities that make up the capital.
Find at Market Square, Poplar, London E14 6AQ
Follow #chrispstreetmarket
Il Bianco Italian
You’ll feel like you’ve been whisked away to Italy after visiting Il Bianco. This authentic Italian restaurant serves up treats in the form of pizza and a Milanese-inspired menu that will have you coming back for more.
Sip away on fine wine that compliments your meal before enjoying desserts like Pannacotta and Tiramisu. After the meal, head to the II Bianco-owned The Island Grocer, which has a grocery store and espresso bar.
Find at 2 Biscayne Ave, Poplar, London E14 9QT
Phone no: 020 7987 2998
Follow @il_bianco_london
Fatboy’s Diner
The Festival of Britain isn’t the only 1950s landmark in Poplar. Fatboy’s Diner is a slice of pure Americana from the vintage US era. Indulge in the classic diner interior, which pays homage to fifties’ nostalgia.
If you’re living in Popular, Fatboy’s Diner is the spot for a casual snack where you can enjoy homemade burgers before washing them down with a smoothie or milkshake. Make sure you try the Big Cheese and Choco Crumble.
Find at Trinity Buoy Wharf, 64 Orchard Pl, Poplar, London E14 0JY
Phone no: 07950 943402
Follow @FatboysDinner
Canary Wharf Shopping Centre
Poplar is within walking distance to Canary Wharf, and it takes a little over five minutes to arrive in London's Primary financial hubs. But forget the financials for a minute, so you can shop ‘til you drop at the Canary Wharf Shopping Centre.
From retail favourites to boutique delights, there are more than 300 shops to browse. And if you work up an appetite from all that shopping, nearby Cabot Place has an array of high-end dining options. Plus, there are plenty of laid-back bars where you can enjoy a drink or two.
Find at 1 Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5NY
Phone no: 020 7418 2000
Follow @canarywharflondon
Westfield Stratford City
Living in Poplar offers a wealth of options when it comes to shopping. If you don’t fancy going to the Canary Wharf Shopping Centre, head to Westfield Stratford City, which is one of the largest shopping centres in the whole of Europe.
From designer brands to high-street favourites, you're spoilt for choice for places to shop. When you've done with shopping, play a few games at the All-Star Bowling Lane or enjoy one of the many restaurants on-site at Westfield Stratford City.
Find at Montfichet Rd, London E20 1EJ
Phone no: 020 8221 7300
Email: [email protected]
Follow @westfieldstratfordcity
Bow Creek Ecology Park and East India Dock Basin Nature Reserve
If you’re living in Poplar, you have not one but two nature reserves to explore. Go for a scenic stroll and take in tranquil surroundings amid the hustle and bustle of the Docklands at the East India Dock Basin Nature Reserve. Alternatively, go to The Old India Dock Basin, which was once a place for shops but has taken on new life as a nature reserve and wildlife sanctuary.
Over at Bow Creek, the once former ironworks, shipyard and coal wharf is now a wildlife haven. It’s received a prestigious Green Flag Park Award for four years running and is a great place to get back to nature.
Find at Orchard Pl, Poplar, London E14 9QS and London E16 1ED
Phone no: 0300 003 0610
Follow #eastindiadockbasinnaturereserve and #bowcreekecologypark
Everyman Canary Wharf
Catch a flick in the luxury settings at Everyman Cinema in Canary Wharf. The boutique cinema chain swaps chairs for sofas while adding cushions and tables that make sure you're at maximum comfort while watching a blockbuster or art-house movie.
And if you’re feeling peckish, order hot food and drinks from the bar and enjoy service to your seat. The aptly-named Spielberger menu has a range of delicious patties, including the 1216 and Philly cheesesteak burger.
Find at Crossrail Pl, London E14 5AR
Phone no: 0872 436 9060
Email: [email protected]
Follow @everymancinema
Trinity Buoy Wharf
Take a walk down Trinity Buoy Wharf and admire local street art from some of the capital’s most talented artists. It’s one of London’s most unique districts, with this River Thames enclave the location of the capital’s last-remaining lighthouse.
Head to Art on Sight, and see a range of artistic creations. The ever-changing collection boasts temporary installations, such as Andrew Baldwin Cab Tree, Claire Morgan Light bulb, and Ben Wilson Gum Art. You'll have six month's worth of Instagram pics from just one visit.
Find at 64 Orchard Pl, Poplar, London E14 0JW
Follow @trinitybuoywharf
Living in Poplar
Living in Poplar gives you access to the best of the Docklands and is more affordable than nearby Canary Wharf. With a strong sense of community, excellent art on show and a range of funky and fresh restaurants, Poplar is quickly becoming one of East London’s prime hotspots.
