Londoners believe the capital isn’t making the most of one of its greatest assets, with almost nine in 10 (88%) saying London should do more to transform its rivers, docks and waterways into destinations for free culture and entertainment.
New research commissioned by British Land1 reveals overwhelming support for bringing more life to London’s waterfronts, with residents saying they want to see everything from open-air cinemas (38%) to free live music (34%) and more family-friendly activities including nature workshops (30%).
The research also reveals that London’s waterways aren’t just places to visit – they’re places that make people feel better. Reflecting the ‘Blue Mind Theory’2, which links proximity to water with improved mental wellbeing, the survey found that 55% of Londoners feel more relaxed when spending time near rivers, docks, canals or lakes, while 44% say it makes them happier. Four in 10 (40%) feel more connected to nature, and almost a quarter say being by the water leaves them feeling more energised (24%) and inspired (24%). One in five (21%) even say it inspires them to explore parts of London they might not otherwise visit.
Suggesting there is a major opportunity to encourage Londoners to explore beyond their usual neighbourhoods, half (50%) of Londoners surveyed say a waterside destination would inspire them to visit a part of London they have never been to before, highlighting the role waterfront events could play in driving footfall to emerging areas of the capital.
The appeal of London’s waterways is already clear. More than half (53%) say waterside locations are among their favourite places to spend time during the summer, while 56% say being near water helps them feel more relaxed. However, many feel London’s waterfronts could offer much more. Two in five (41%) say they would spend more time by the water if there were more comfortable places to sit and unwind, while almost a third (32%) would visit more often if there were more activities and events taking place.
When asked what London is currently missing, free open-air cinemas topped the wish list (38%), followed by free live music (34%), free kids’ activities such as nature workshops (30%) and places to eat and drink by the waterside (24%) – demonstrating a strong demand for accessible outdoor experiences throughout the summer months.
The findings come as Round The Dock comes to Canada Water from 23 July, bringing six weeks of free live music, outdoor cinema, street food, markets and family entertainment to one of London’s most distinctive dockside destinations.
Running from 23 July until 30 Aug, Round The Dock will transform Canada Water into a vibrant waterfront destination with six weeks of free entertainment including live music from the likes of DJ Norman Jay MBE and Steam Down presents Sounds of Diaspora, an outdoor cinema, six independent markets, free kids and family activities, street food and pop-up performances. Just two stops from London Bridge, the cultural programme is completely free to attend, with no tickets or pre-booking required.
Whether it’s discovering a new artist, enjoying a film at sunset, browsing independent traders or simply relaxing beside the dock with friends and family, Round The Dock offers Londoners a chance to experience one of the capital’s most exciting waterfront destinations in a whole new way.
All events are FREE to attend, with no tickets or pre-booking required. For the full event schedule, visit www.CanadaWater.co.uk/RoundTheDock