Water sports on the Wharf: Open Water Swimming, Paddleboarding and Kayaking Open this Summer – 10.06.25

• Stand-up paddleboarding and origami kayaking will be available on the crystal clear waters of Eden Dock all summer long
• Open water swimming returns with a packed schedule of late night dips and early morning glides
• Visitors can also enjoy the Alfresco Arts summer series, a programme of music, theatre and family-friendly events throughout the neighbourhood

Summer has arrived at Canary Wharf and for the first time it brings with it a new host of water sports at Eden Dock, the Wharf’s unique waterside oasis created in partnership with the Eden Project, plus – a full programme of live theatre and music performances.  

Open Water Swimming 

Open water swimming is back in Eden Dock’s crystal-clear waters by popular demand, from Thursday 5th June until Friday 31st October.  

In partnership with Love Open Water, residents, visitors and workers are invited to take a dip and enjoy the water to the fullest as the plants and floating gardens bloom over the summer months. Two swimming options will be available – either the 150m loop or 300m loop in early morning, lunchtime and evening slots.  

Swim sessions start at £9.50 with a NOWCA membership, and there are free events throughout the summer.  

Paddleboarding and Kayaking 

New to the Wharf this summer is stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, with sessions hosted at Eden Dock – giving paddlers the perfect opportunity to explore the lush landscape of over 70 species of plants and trees that grow throughout the whole stretch. Kayaking sessions will be hosted in Oru Kayaks – the world’s first origami-inspired folding kayaks. Located at the bottom of Cubitt Steps, the adventures will launch from Makenzie Walk, with fully trained safety staff on hand to support paddlers during the activities.   

Sessions will take place on various Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays (12-8pm) from Saturday 7th June until Sunday 28th September, with tickets just £15 for an hour of adventure.   

Alfresco Arts  

For those after some culture, Canary Wharf’s Alfresco Arts summer series is the perfect way to experience the neighbourhood. This year’s programme features a diverse lineup in celebration of music, theatre and family-friendly events. Lunchtime Classicals with the Docklands Sinfonia returns, filling the air with classical music, while special performances of Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing and Romeo & Juliet will take place on Eden Dock.  

Families can look forward to events including Comedy Club 4 Kids at Crossrail Place Roof Garden, and a magical Puss in Boots performance by Let’s All Dance Ballet Company in Jubilee Park. The free events are taking place on various dates and times from June until August with the majority operated on a first come, first served basis.  

Throughout the summer months, visitors can also discover an array of talented singers every Friday afternoon on Eden Dock via the neighbourhoods Dockside Sounds performances. Canary Wharf has partnered with Busk in London to bring a host of new and emerging artists to the area – the perfect way to spend a lunch break or start off the weekend. 

Canary Wharf also hosts a selection of always on, free-to-visit activities and attractions, including a 9-hole minigolf course by cross-Atlantic creative duo Craig & Karl, colourful ping pong tables, a ‘Raise Your Art Rate’ running art trail, and 16.5 acres of open spaces to stroll, picnic and soak up the sun.  

Those looking to refuel after a busy day of activities have plenty of choice with over 80 cafes, bars and restaurants. These include British nose-to-tail dining by the team behind Fallow at Roe, plant-based restaurant mallow, Kricket for dishes inspired by the flavours of India and new addition Brother Marcus conveniently located right next to Eden Dock.  

Visitors wanting to picnic on the grass can pop into Waitrose & Partners or Badiani Gelato, to enjoy as they watch Canada Square Park’s Summer Screens after work or on a sunny weekend.  

For more information on Canary Wharf’s upcoming events and activities, visit: https://canarywharf.com/whats-on/