Events
Explore the Royal Docks During Open House Festival
This September, Open House Festival gives visitors the chance to explore buildings, places and projects across the Royal Docks. From architecture and sustainable design to local history and community-led initiatives, these free events offer opportunities to learn more about the area's past, present and future.
Whether you're interested in architecture, culture, regeneration or sustainability, Open House Festival is a chance to visit places that are not usually open to the public and discover more about the Royal Docks.
The Chamber at City Hall, where visitors can explore public spaces during Open House Festival
City Hall Tours
12-13 September
Saturday 10am-4pm | Sunday 10am-3pm
Free | No booking required, drop in
Visit City Hall, home to the Mayor of London and the London Assembly. Located on the Royal Victoria waterfront, the building was originally designed as The Crystal and is known for its sustainable design. Visitors can explore public spaces including the London Living Room and Chamber and learn more about the building's environmental features.
Silvertown: A Sailor's Story
Tuesday 15 September, 11am-1pm
Free | Booking required
Discover the hidden history of one of London's most rapidly changing neighborhoods on a guided walking tour from City Hall to Tipping Point East. You will explore historic Silvertown and hear fascinating stories of maritime trade, industrial innovation, workers' protests, and modern regeneration, offering a firsthand look at how this district's rich heritage is being reimagined for the future.
Visitors explore Tipping Point East, Newham's first circular economy construction hub, during a guided tour of the site
Tipping Point East
Tuesday 15 September, 11am-12:30pm
Free | Booking required
Go behind the scenes at Newham's first circular economy construction hub in Silvertown. On this guided tour of Tipping Point East, meet the designers and innovators cutting waste, explore a live eco-friendly site, and visit the on-site Material Store, Yard, and Library dedicated to sustainable building.
University of East London: Architecture & Visual Arts School tour and exhibition
Saturday 19 September, 10am-4:30pm
Free | No booking required, drop in
Step inside UEL's Architecture and Visual Arts School and discover where the next generation of architects, designers and artists are shaping the future of our cities. Visitors can explore studios, galleries and student projects focused on sustainability, creativity and innovation.
Flavours of Royal Docks: Food, Architecture & Memory
Saturday 19 September 2026, 11am - 1pm
Free | Booking required
Join this free two-hour guided walking tour exploring how food, trade and industry helped shape the Royal Docks. Visit historic landmarks including Millennium Mills and Tate & Lyle while discovering stories of migration, community and everyday life.
Make a Day of It
The Royal Docks has plenty of free things to see and do all year round, from public art and waterside parks to waterfront walks and local attractions. Make the most of your Open House Festival visit by exploring more of the area while you're here.
- Sing karaoke above the Thames as Cable Car-aoke returns from 10 September to 16 October
- Enjoy a Sunday roast at one of the Royal Docks' pubs and restaurants
- Unwind with a wood-fired sauna experience at Sweheat Sauna
- Ride the Thames Clipper from Royal Wharf Pier, a scenic way to explore London by river
- Hire a Brompton Bike from £5 at Custom House, West Silvertown, Canning Town, Royal Albert, Beckton or Gallions Reach DLR stations and explore the docks on two wheels
Visit our What's On page for more events and sign up to our emails for the latest news and updates from across the Royal Docks.
