Wapping
In 1986, Rupert Murdoch's News International built a new £80m printing and publishing works in the north of Wapping. This became the scene of violent protests after News International's UK operation moved from Fleet Street to Wapping, with over 5,000 print workers being sacked when new technology was introduced. Since then it has become of London’s most sought after locations – close to the City, close to the Thames, close to London Bridge. Perhaps Wapping's greatest attraction is the Thames foreshore itself, and the venerable public houses that face onto it. A number of the old 'stairs', such as Wapping Old Stairs and Pelican Stairs (by the Prospect of Whitby) give public access to a littoral zone or tidal point littered with flotsam, jetsam and fragments of old dock installations. Understandably it is popular with amateur archaeologists and treasure hunters - it is surprisingly easy for even a casual visitor to pick up a centuries-old shard of pottery here.

Wapping Project
The Wapping Hydraulic Power Station (built 1890) was originally run by the London Hydraulic Power Company in the East End of London at Wapping. Originally it operated using steam and later it was converted to use electricity. It was used to power machinery, lifts (elevators), etc., in the local area. After its closure as a pumping station in 1977, the building was converted and reopened as an arts centre (the Wapping Project) and restaurant (Wapping Food). Exhibitions are held in the basement and the main ground floor hall houses the restaurant. Some of the original equipment is still in place.

St Katherine’s Dock
For over a thousand years the site of St Katharine Docks has been a focus of commerce and human endeavour. From King Edgar's bequest in the 10th century throughout the turbulent middle ages and Elizabethan times, to the founding of the dock we can see today, St Katharine's has played an important part in the life of London. Although still active as a dock today, much of the focus of St Katherine’s Dock is leisure. Alfresco dining and drinking are enjoyed at the Docks' several bars and restaurants, whilst a little retail therapy is on offer amongst its shops.