The area sits almost entirely in the borough of Southwark, as well as a small portion of Lewisham. Affectionately known as Canada Water, this area covers parts of the wards of Rotherhithe, Grange, Surrey Docks, and Evelyn. Situated in zone 2 with a wide array of transit connections, Canada Water originally got its name for the many incoming trading ships from Canada. Walking through the area, the semi-industrial architecture and low-rise suburban buildings are most notable. Of these low-rise buildings, most of these homes were built in the 1980s and ’90s, although there are a few Victorian terrace cottages sprinkled throughout the neighbourhood. With its close proximity to the Canary Wharf and City business districts, the area is home to more young professionals than families. However, for the families that are drawn to the locality, they benefit from the wonderful school offerings and community facilities like the Canada Water Library and Culture Space.

Upon the Russell family gaining control of the Rotherhithe peninsula in 1695, they converted the land into docks. Canada Water quickly became a home to the thriving operation of these docks in the 18th century. However, after their operation ceased in 1969, the London Docklands Development Corporation filled in the land in order to allow for the development of housing. By 1999, Canada Water tube station had opened, with its Jubilee line extension providing residents easy access to central London. Shortly after, Southwark Council and British Land partnered to regenerate the area and developed a new town centre for Rotherhithe. The current Canada Water Library and Culture Space were opened as a part of this regeneration project.

Celebrated actor, Michael Caine, was born and lived in the area before moving with his family to Elephant and Castle. He is well known for his roles in the films Hannah and Her Sisters, as well as Cider House Rules.
Parts of the James Bond film Tomorrow Never Dies were shot at the now closed Harmsworth Quays Printing Works.

The character of Lemuel Gulliver, the protagonist from Gulliver’s Travels, was written to be from Rotherhithe.

Within the Rotherhithe area of Canada Water, the deprivation rate is roughly 20% higher than England’s average. Additionally, the Evelyn area has the worst air quality in all of Lewisham. Still, those who live in the neighbourhood are quite involved and take pride in the area. An Evelyn community group, Evelyn200, is taking steps to tackle the issues of air pollution and lack of trees through actively working with the council.

Southwark Council recently announced plans for the regeneration of Canada Water. Through this 15-year regeneration project, the Council has committed to deliver 900 new homes, 236 of which will be affordable and as well as a new town centre to Canada Water. However, the largest upcoming development in this neighbourhood are the plans for a new King’s College London Campus. Already hosting over 30,000 students per year, King’s College first aims to build student accommodation capable of housing an additional 770 students in the area. This is set to be joined by a more ambitious second phase centering around Canada Water which will include high quality teaching and learning spaces as well as new sports facilities. The council is also supporting plans for the redevelopment of the Rotherhithe gasometer on Slater Road as many similar industrial sites have been transformed across London in recent years.