Leave Tower pier and turn…
LEFT: A 5 min walk away is the St Dunstan in the East Church Garden – a beautiful green oasis with a fountain and greenery draping the historic walls set within the ruins of a Wren church. After being severely damaged in the Blitz of 1941, it was decided not to rebuild St Dunstan’s. In 1970 it opened as the garden it is today. Address and times: INFO
The Sky Garden is London’s highest public garden with 360-degree views. You can book your free ticket to visit the garden and the balcony, and if you fancied food, they also have a fantastic restaurant to dine in: INFO
The Monument to the Great Fire of London was built to commemorate the Great Fire of 1666. You can climb the 311 steps to the stunning views in every direction. I’ve done it twice and it certainly is a thigh burner of a climb – but you get a certificate as you leave for your effort! The Great Fire started in a bakery on Pudding Lane, just 202 feet from the site of The Monument today. INFO
STRAIGHT: You simply cannot miss this iconic building as you arrive at the pier, the Tower of London; a fortress, palace and prison! As you come in to shore, keep your eyes peeled for the entrance to traitors gate along the river wall. It is an entrance through which many Tudor prisoners arrived which can be see in all its glory during low tide: INFO
RIGHT: St Katherine Docks, affectionately known as St Kats, is a world famous marina and just a 5 minute walk from the pier along the river to your right. However, if the river path access is closed, simply walk around the Towers perimeter (only adding another 5 mins). Once in St Katherine Docks, you can marvel at the yachts and old ships moored up, meander over the small foot bridges and weave between paths lined with restaurants and cafes. Thirsty? Visit The Dickens Inn. Originally a warehouse, this pub is absolutely stunning with its huge presence and floral lined balconies. INFO Have a look at Millbank Pier to see a connection between St Kats and Pimlico!
Other photos from this area…
If you visit any of these places, or perhaps somewhere I haven’t mentioned, please let me know via Instagram @coventgardenmum or by email. Id love you hear your experience and perhaps even see some photos! Have a great time…