Things to do at Canary Wharf

Canary Wharf may bring to mind skyscrapers and financial firms, but it's truly so much more. The neighbourhood is a vibrant hub of restaurants, public art and culture, and great places to relax and have fun.

On this page, you'll find an SoM alum-approved list of the best student-friendly spots in Canary Wharf! Got some tips to add? Let us know!

Food

Canary Wharf is home to a huge array of dining options, from gourmet restaurants to high street chains, with plenty of budget-friendly choices, too.

Meal Deals

Tesco: Affordable meal deals for a main, snack, and drink. Only £3.85 with a Tesco Clubcard.

Greggs: Classic British pastries and sandwiches. Show your student card to get a Free sausage roll (or vegan/veggie alternative) when you get a Sandwich Deal, from £3.75.

Food Halls

Sick of arguing over whether to get pizza or Thai? These venues collect a range of options, from independent companies to popular traders, all in one space. The perfect lunch break or night out, where everyone can be sure to get their favourite dish.

Food Kiosks @ Reuters Plaza: Located right below One Canada Square, towards the Canary Wharf tube station.

Market Halls: The indoor version of the food kiosks, it's three bars, eleven different restaurants, all in one venue. They also do screenings of football and other events.

Wharf Kitchen @ Jubilee Place: This food hall is international-themed, so you'll find cuisine from across the world, from Argentina to Xi'an. They also host events and screenings.

Restaurants

Dishoom: Our own local branch of the famous Indian restaurant. Try the breakfast menu.

Burger and Lobster: A London chain dedicated to perfecting just two dishes (no points for guessing what they are).

Korean BBQ House: Authentic Korean BBQ... yes, meaning you get to grill your own food right at the table.

Barbarella: Part of the restaurant group that includes Big Mamma Trattorie, this location features 1970s décor and a menu inspired by Roman cuisine.

Halal Options

Garbanzos: Flavorful falafel and Mediterranean dishes, perfect for a healthy lunch.

Zata: Lebanese street food with bold flavors, ideal for a quick bite.

Chopsticks: Tasty Asian-inspired halal dishes, great for takeout or dine-in.

Indi-go: Modern Indian dishes with halal choices, offering a cozy dining experience.

Activities

Never lack for weekend plans in Canary Wharf! There are a huge range of activities and attractions to try (and make sure you check to see if they offer a student discount).

K1 Go-Kart: Race at the UK’s fastest indoor go-kart track.

Fairgame: A funfair-themed bar with games like Whac-A-Mole and duck shooting, plus street food and cocktails.

Padium: Try padel tennis (a combination of squash and tennis) on world-class courts, a fun and social way to stay active.

Museum of London Docklands: Just steps away from campus, this branch of the Museum of London explores the local history of the Docklands, with a permanent collection and exciting temporary exhibitions.

Parks 

Escape the urban buzz and recharge in Canary Wharf’s green spaces, perfect for reflection or a study break.

Mudchute Park and Farm: A serene park with greenery and farm animals, ideal for a peaceful stroll or picnic.

Canada Square Park: A grassy urban square right near campus, host to seasonal events.

Eden Dock: A newly redesigned waterfront haven, including options for open-water swimming and outdoor fitness classes.

Jubilee Park: A tree-lined go-to when you need some classic park vibes. Features some of Canary Wharf's famous public sculptures, plus some fountains.

Crossrail Place Roof Garden: A free rooftop garden showcasing plants from around the world. Fancy putting on a performance in their amphitheatre? They welcome collaborations with local groups, including students!

Shopping

Groceries: From budget-friendly Tesco with Tesco Clubcard deals, to premium Waitrose (the UK’s largest branch), and Tian Tian, an Asian supermarket for authentic ingredients when you miss home-cooked flavours.

Shopping Malls: Browse high-end stores like Zara and Lululemon in Canada Place, Cabot Place, or Jubilee Place, all within a 5-minute walk.

Billingsgate Fish Market: Open 4am-8am, this iconic market offers fresh fish and shellfish, great for early risers or culinary enthusiasts.

Groceries

Tesco: The classic for Meal Deals and groceries on a budget.

Waitrose: A slightly higher-end (and higher price) grocery stop.

Tian Tian Market: Asian supermarket offering primarily Chinese goods, but also imports from across Asia.

Holland & Barrett: A health food shop with a large selections of vitamins, supplements, and health-related goods.

Shopping Malls

Cabot Place: An indoor shopping mall featuring a range of high street shops as well as independent retailers, salons, and more.

Canada Place: A shopping mall right on our doorstep!

Jubilee Place: Another one-stop shop for a range of clothing, accessories, and other fun shopping experiences.

Markets and Squares

Billingsgate Market: A historic fish market, stop by early in the morning if you're a keen chef, or just fancy a taste of a classic London trading market!

Art and Culture

Troubadour Canary Wharf: A brand new performing arts venue designed to host large-scale spectacles and performances.

Everyman Cinema: A high-end cinema experience, with food and drinks delivered right to your seat.

Art Trail: Canary Wharf is famous for its public art and sculptures, and visiting them all using the Art Trail Map makes for a great day out, plus a tour of the area!

Nightlife

Unwind after classes with Canary Wharf’s vibrant nightlife, offering affordable drinks and lively venues.

The Ledger Building (Wetherspoons): Budget-friendly drinks and pub grub, a student favourite for casual evenings.

The Alchemist: Sleek cocktail bar with creative drinks, perfect for a sophisticated night out.

SOMA: A trendy spot for craft cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere, great for socialising.

Directors Box: Sports bar with screens, pool tables, and a lively vibe, ideal for watching games with friends.