You can't help but notice the maritime history from the moment you step foot in Shadwell. Historic riverside pubs, a lively marina and charming cobblestone streets mean living in Shadwell feels like you're on your own little voyage.

As one of the first areas in East London to see regeneration, the E1 postcode feels settled when compared to some of its neighbouring areas. Old warehouses have been converted into modern apartments and old docksides into entertainment hubs. The result leaves you with plenty of fun things to do whilst living in Shadwell.

Tobacco Dock

Busy event at Tobacco Dock

Tobacco Dock is a business hub in the centre of Shadwell and Wapping. It hosts events spaces and has workspaces that you can utilise for your own professional endeavours. Some of the world’s leading brands host events at Tobacco Dock, making it a great place for networking.

Not everything at Tobacco Dock is business, however. Let loose by attending one of the regular music events and tasty food festivals. In fact, the dock has become a hotspot for street food and drink delights over the years and has hosted the London Craft Beer Festival.

Find at Tobacco Quay, Wapping Ln, London E1W 2SF
Phone no: 020 7680 4001
Follow us @TobaccoDockLon

Skylight

Rooftop view from Skylight

Located right next door to Tobacco Dock, Skylight is a vibrant rooftop bar. Sip away on a beer or eclectic cocktail while soaking up spectacular views of the London skyline. It’s a great spot to catch up with a few friends or enjoy a drink after a long day at work if you’re living in Shadwell.

If you’re feeling competitive, why not try your hand at Croquet, which lasts for 45 minutes and is suitable for between two and six people? You can also enjoy a spot of ping pong and take part in cocktail-making masterclasses.

Find at Tobacco Dock, Pennington St entrance, St Katharine's & Wapping, London E1W 2SF
Email: [email protected]
Follow @skylight_london

St Katherine’s Docks

Night time shot of St Katherine’s Docks

One of the primary attractions in the E1 postcode, St Katherine’s Docks is a former historic dock that features a number of restaurants and events. It’s central London’s only marina, and you can enjoy a relaxing meal while looking over waters filled with fancy yachts.

More than five-million people pass through St Katherine’s Docks each year. And exciting events that take place throughout the year include rowing challenges and the World Food Market. If you’re looking for something more low key, simply go for a scenic stroll by the marina.

Find at 50 St Katharine's Way, St Katharine's & Wapping, London E1W 1LA
Phone no: 020 7264 5287
Email: [email protected]
Follow @StKats

Yuu Kitchen

Yuu Kitchen in Shadwell

Yuu Kitchen is just a hop and a skip from Shadwell and features delicious Asian tapas bites. Sample a range of dishes from South Asia and the Pacific Rim, from Taiwanese bao to Mexican tostadas. Then sip them down with unique cocktails, which include plum wine, sake and shochu.

The decor at Yuu Kitchen is in a world of its own, with comic-book and modern-Manga styled interiors that offer a fun and funky space. It's an ideal restaurant for casual dining and to enjoy light bites and great cocktails with friends.

Find at 29 Commercial St, Spitalfields, London E1 6NE
Phone no: 020 7377 0411
Follow @yuu_kitchen

Whitechapel Gallery

Whitechapel Gallery

Embrace your creative side at Whitechapel Gallery, which has been hosting world-class artists for more than 100 years. There are galleries, exhibitions, artist commissions, collection displays and historical archives to browse during your visit. Plus a café and bar if you work up an appetite.

Whitechapel Gallery isn’t just about viewing great art, though. There’s educational resources and workshops available so that you can find your inner artiste. This East London institution plays a pivotal role in the capital’s cultural landscape.

Find at 77-82 Whitechapel High St, Shadwell, London E1 7QX
Phone no: 020 7522 7888
Email: [email protected]
Follow @whitechapelgallery

UpMarket

Upmarket in Spitalfields

If you’re living in Shadwell, you can feel distinctly upmarket with a visit to one of Spitalfields most popular marketplaces. UpMarket houses more than 140 traders, who sell just about everything from fashion to art and music to food.

It’s one of London’s most imaginative (and stylish) markets with its The Old Truman Brewery location. Much of the items on sale are one-off, bespoke items, so you can shop truly individualistic styles at UpMarket.

Find at 91 Brick Ln, Spitalfields, London E1 6QL
Phone no: 020 7770 6028
Follow @SundayUpMarketE1

George Tavern

George Tavern in Shadwell

Shadwell and surrounding areas are all about their historic watering holes. At the George Tavern, you’ll find a Grade II listed building that doubles up as a music venue. It also acted as the filming and photoshoot location for Kate Moss, Justin Timberlake, Adrian Brodey, Grace Jones and more.

But you're probably wondering about the food and drink. Well, worry not. George Tavern serves up a range of traditional pub grub and has an extensive selection of ales to sample. Your new local is waiting for you.

Find at 373 Commercial Rd, Stepney Green, London E1 0LA
Phone no: 020 7790 7335
Email: [email protected]
Follow @thegeorgetavern

Prospect of Whitby

Living in Shadwell

Prospect of Whitby dates as far back as 1520 and is another historic pub that sits on the banks of the River Thames. It claims to be the oldest riverside tavern, and could just be your new local if you're living in Shadwell.

Chow down on some pub grub classics with Prospect of Whitby’s seasonal menu that includes delights like pulled lamb shoulder. The drinks are just as extensive, with beers and ciders from cask ales from their Suffolk brewery.

Find at 57 Wapping Wall, Wapping, London E1W 3SH
Phone no: 020 7481 1095
Follow @greenekinglocals

Living in Shadwell

With excellent neighbouring areas like Wapping and Shoreditch and convenient travel connections, Shadwell is fast becoming a desirable London area. You don't need to be a maritime expert to make the most of living in Shadwell. But there's no harm in battening down the hatches and calling the E1 postcode your new home.

Tag us in your favourite Shadwell hotspots @essentiallivinghomes.

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Mark Flint

Author

Mark is a regular contributor to the Essential Living blog and shares all the latest news and sourcing the very best content for our customers.