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A Family Guide to Canary Wharf: Attractions and Amenities

Canary Wharf is a prime family-friendly destination and neighbourhood, offering a wide range of attractions and amenities for everyone of any age to enjoy.

In this guide, we will explore some of the best Canary Wharf family activities and Canary Wharf family restaurants that promise to delight people of all ages.

 A sunny park event with people watching an outdoor Family Film Club Screen.

Discovering Family Activities in Canary Wharf 


The E14 area is home to numerous beautiful, manicured green spaces, including parks, gardens, and boardwalks. Open spaces like Canada Park Square, Westferry Circus Gardens, Crossrail Rooftop Gardens, and Harbour Quay Gardens all lend themselves well to wholesome family activities ranging from casual strolls in the sunshine to picnics, outdoor birthday parties, and lively sports games.


If you’re looking for Canary Wharf family activities closer to home, one of the key benefits of living in Vertus’ Newfoundland residential building is its fully equipped indoor children’s play area. This unique ‘kidult’ play area provides ample room for working parents while keeping the kids entertained with a sheltered play space complete with a kid-sized climbing wall.


Outdoor Adventures for the Family 


Canary Wharf offers a plethora of playgrounds, outdoor sports fields, and other amenities ideal for family outings. Some of the locals’ favourite options include Mini Golf by Craig & Karl, GoBoat Canary Wharf for tranquil trips along the Thames, and Mudchute Farm, a child-friendly farm experience complete with a diverse range of animals to pet and approachable education about farm life.


Cultural Attractions and Events


One of the main Canary Wharf attractions on offer is the region’s diverse cultures and cultural atmosphere. It’s also home to a yearly calendar packed full of family-oriented events, art installations, museums, and other must-see attractions.


Children will love the popular Children’s Art Trail, which features 12 artworks dotted around Canary Wharf. All these artworks have been hand-picked to appeal to curious young minds. The trail also includes testing tasks that kids must complete along the way to keep them stimulated throughout the experience.

A family walk across an indoor boardwalk surrounded by lush greenery


Paws on the Wharf is another excellent entertainment option. This free art trail, hosted by Guide Dogs and Wild in Art, has installed a collection of 25 guide dog sculptures around E14, each decorated with vibrant designs by local artists. Running from Monday, 25 March, to Friday, 17 May 2024, this whimsical installation will have the whole family eager to find the next eye-catching canine in the series.

A lady bends down to take a picture of a Paws on The Wharf sculpture displaying a multi-coloured dog


Additionally, there are many other seasonal and annual family events throughout the year for your family to enjoy. Browse the What’s On page to find thrilling events and Canary Wharf family activities happening at a time that’s right for you.


Dining with the Family: The Best of Canary Wharf 


Once you’ve set out to enjoy some of the area’s top attractions, you’ll need refreshments to ensure that you experience everything that Canary Wharf has to offer. E14 is home to a range of top Canary Wharf family restaurants that offer a variety of cuisines to tempt all ages.


Some family-friendly restaurants in Canary Wharf come highly recommended for their welcoming atmosphere for children, offering special kid’s menus, entertainment, and amenities for young diners. These include Zizzi, Emilia’s Crafted Pasta, and Patty & Bun. Sticks & Sushi also offers a children’s menu for adventurous diners, and Canary Wharf has just become home to a Burger King, too.


There are plenty of other cafes and restaurants offering healthy, fun, and creative meal options ideal for encouraging kids to try new foods and cultures. The Breakfast Club will delight them with all-day breakfasts and a retro games room, and Roka gives them the chance to sample Japanese classics while watching skilled chefs in action in their open kitchen setting.

A man and woman laugh as they sit at a table eating and drinking

A smiling family walk out of the entrance to Wharf Kitchen


Must-Visit Family Attractions in Canary Wharf


Adults and kids alike will adore Canary Wharf’s attractions that are both indoor and out. From Flip Out to the Canary Wharf Public Art Trail, Capital Karts, the Museum of London Docklands, and Everyman Cinema, there is something to suit everyone’s tastes and preferences.


E14 is also home to a range of sporting sites and activities, including the Docklands Sailing and Watersports Centre and Parkour School, adding even more variety to the mix. Family members of all ages will delight in local ping pong and mini golf, and older kids can try their hand at Padel at the Padium for a new take on fun.


Seasonal Activities and Events for Families in Canary Wharf


Canary Wharf family activities and seasonal events add something special to this time of year. The city’s seasonal ice-skating rink is a firm winter favourite, and the Winter Lights installations bring magical illuminations to the neighbourhood each year around January. Plenty of other must-see seasonal family events and Canary Wharf attractions are on offer throughout the year. 
By becoming a Vertus resident at 8 Water Street, 10 George Street, or Newfoundland, you can gain exclusive access and discounts to these events and more through our Vertus+ programme.


Explore the diversity and vibrancy of Canary Wharf and make lasting memories together with the area’s action-packed array of family activities.

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