DOCKLANDS

Property Docklands
Originally part of the Port of London, in its heyday the biggest working docks in the world, the loop in the Thames that is known as the Isle of Dogs (the 'Island') has now become a commercial and business area as important as the City itself. "While bananas once landed by the boatload at West India dock, banks, media and insurance companies now enjoy the fruits of their labour."

As businesses and jobs came so did people, housing, and the infrastructure required to support an extended modern community. And the community is still growing. Yet more jobs will develop and yet more people will need yet more property in Docklands. The investment prospects here will remain strong for years to come.

Today the 'Island' is quite simply a great place to live. On virtually all sides you have water – if not the Thames, then one of the gentrified refurbished docks. In some respects it feels like Venice with a modern spin. There are open spaces to sit, eat and drink, and open-air events and music.

Altogether it's a sophisticated and cosmopolitan lifestyle, and much sought after by a young and upmarket entrepreneurial crowd who come here to make their fortune before buying a weekend place in the country.

The DLR is an extremely effective way of linking into the Transport for London network. River travel has recently made a major comeback and the Thames Clipper boat service will get you from your docklands property to the West End in 20 minutes. London City Airport is virtually on the doorstep, and Stansted is easily reached by coach to Stratford and then a bus service. The extension of the Jubilee underground line from Waterloo through London Bridge and Canary Wharf to Stratford gives even greater access. Click here to find out more about buying a Docklands Property .