This area is broadly known as Limehouse and is a diverse area that has been on the come-up for a while. Centred around the historic Limehouse Basin, this area is a vast mix of high-rise luxury housing along the waterfront, pre-war and postwar flats and terraced homes. Despite being so close to Canary Wharf, the area retains a strong sense of community furthered by its ethnically diverse population. Connected by the Limehouse DLR station, and with access to key roads including the A1203 and A12, it is perfect for business-types eager to reconnect with the real world away from Canary Wharf. Although the number of families in the area are declining, the neighbourhood still boasts good primary schools and a community feel.

Limehouse’s name originates from the lime kilns that were used by pottery companies in the area from all the way back to 1356. Their goods were then traded along the nearby East End Docks. However, this is disputed by those who claim that the name comes from sailors, or “limeys”, who ate limes to avoid scurvy. Nevertheless, it got its reputation as being a useful port for cargo handling and ship building in the mediaeval period. Yet, the area was notorious for its crime and poverty. For example, it was in Limehouse that the first case of cholera in Britain was recorded in 1832 after being brought over on a ship from India via Germany. Interestingly, local MP and later PM Clement Attlee’s experience of poverty in the area helped him turn from a Tory to a socialist in the late 20th century.

Interestingly, Limehouse used to be an area synonymous with opium addiction in the late 1800s. Chinese sailors settled in the area and set up several opium dens. The area later became the backdrop for the somewhat problematic Dr Fu Manchu films.

Since then, many of the authentic east-enders who used to make up the community here have been priced out due to the development of luxury residential buildings, particularly around the waterfront. Some locals are worried about the loss of authenticity that overdevelopment is bringing to the area. Additionally, others are worried about the rise in pollution in local canals.

However, development in the area continues. FBM Architects’ plan for a new residential development on the corner of Commercial Road and White Horse Road was recently confirmed. Meanwhile, in the conservation area around Regents Canal and Limehouse Cut, planning has also been granted for the residential redevelopment of Sailmaker’s Warehouse.