London Walks 9

Contact: Email the group leader(s) at londonwalks9@tonbridgeu3a.uk  

Group Leaders:  Penny Davies and Sue Treharne

London Walks Group 9 - 26 March 2025 

Ten of us enjoyed a beautiful sunny day exploring the area around Trinity Buoy Wharf. We took the DLR to East India, walked through what is now a dedicated wildlife wetlands area which was formerly the dock, until we reached the River Thames. Here we straddled the Meridian Line, studied the Virginia Settlers Monument before heading to TWB, walking through an area once known as London’s lost village. London’s only lighthouse is situated at the wharf – built to train lighthouse keepers and test lighting equipment. Michael Faraday spent many years here and there is a shed dedicated to him and his research. The Wharf houses Container City, many units converted into colourful offices and artists’ studios and embellished with pieces of kinetic artwork, unfortunately not working on the day we were there. Also here is a tidal lunar clock and a couple of historic trade boats. 

We then walked along the River Lea to London City Island where we had lunch in the cafe at the English National Ballet school. Because the weather was so favourable we had a consensus to change the route for the afternoon, took the DLR from nearby Canning Town to North Greenwich and headed for the pier to wait for the Uber Thames Clipper for the 50-minute boat trip to Embankment. 

From the feedback at the end, everyone went home very happy with the day’s outing. Straddling the Meridian Line & A splendid view of Tower Bridge & The Shard from the boat.