Living in Cubitt Town

Community and local life in Cubitt Town have a friendly, welcoming feel with strong neighbourhood organisations and events. The area supports several active residents’ associations and community groups, which regularly organise local markets, charity events, and clean-up days.

Outdoor lifestyle is central, with access to river walks and Mudchute Park and Farm – a rarity so close to central London, offering city dwellers open green space and an urban farm experience. The riverside paths and open spaces attract walkers, runners, and cyclists, making use of the delightful Thames views.

Locals take pride in Cubitt Town’s heritage and support a number of cultural and social events throughout the year, from summer fairs to local history talks. With convenient access to markets in Greenwich and the shopping and entertainment of Canary Wharf, Cubitt Town offers both community spirit and links to wider London life.

Safety and crime rates in Cubitt Town are broadly in line with the wider Tower Hamlets borough, which has seen a gradual improvement as regeneration continues. The area is generally regarded as safe, particularly along the riverside, though like many inner London neighbourhoods it has pockets where incidents can occur, particularly around transport interchanges and busy thoroughfares.

Visible community policing and the presence of neighbourhood police teams contribute to a sense of safety. Many residents report feeling secure, particularly in newer residential areas with restricted access and CCTV. Ongoing regeneration and active local groups have helped foster a stronger sense of security in recent years.

As always in urban London, residents are encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings, particularly at night, but Cubitt Town is not considered a high-crime area compared to some city centres. Community safety forums and active neighbourhood watches are present for those wishing to be more involved in local security issues.

Parking in Cubitt Town can be competitive due to the limited street space and high residential density. Many newer developments include allocated parking or underground garages, but on-street parking typically requires a resident permit. Parking enforcement is robust, reflecting Tower Hamlets’ aim to discourage unwanted commuter parking.

The area is served by the A1206 (Manchester Road and Westferry Road), providing a convenient road circuit around the Isle of Dogs. Congestion during peak periods is common, especially along Manchester Road and by the Island Gardens DLR station. Cyclists make use of riverside routes and the Cycle Superhighway to reach Canary Wharf and central London.

Access to nearby towns and cities by road:

• Greenwich – 10 mins via Greenwich Foot Tunnel (pedestrian/cycle) or A102 (road)
• Canary Wharf – 5 mins via A1206
• Stratford – approx. 25 mins via A12 (7 miles)
• Central London – approx. 30 mins via A1203/The Highway (6 miles)
• London City Airport – approx. 20 mins via A1020 (4 miles)

Cubitt Town offers an appealing selection of food options, ranging from long-established riverside pubs to modern cafés. Traditional locals like The Ferry House and The Ship Inn stand out for their Thames views and historic ambiance. Restaurants along Manchester Road and the riverside cater to diverse tastes, including Italian, Indian, and contemporary British cuisine.

The area’s proximity to Canary Wharf brings more choice for dining and nightlife, with a short walk or DLR ride expanding options to include upmarket bars, well-known restaurant chains, and relaxed docksides. Locally, smaller cafés and takeaways reflect Cubitt Town’s multicultural community, mixing modern coffee shops with established family eateries.

Nightlife within Cubitt Town itself tends to be relaxed and low-key, focused on pub culture and intimate gatherings, though nearby Canary Wharf and East London districts provide a more vibrant nightlife for those seeking late-night venues, theatres, or live music.

School Quality: Schools in Cubitt Town are varied, with several primary and secondary options rated Good by Ofsted, making the area appealing for families prioritising education.

Parks and Green Space: The neighbourhood is close to Mudchute Park and Farm as well as riverside walks, giving children places to play and explore outdoors.

Childcare: A range of nurseries, after-school clubs, and childminding services serve local families, with further options available in nearby Canary Wharf and Poplar.

Safety: Family areas in Cubitt Town are considered safe, with active resident groups, neighbourhood policing, and secure residential developments providing reassurance.

Family Activities: Mudchute Park and Farm is a popular family destination, as are riverside cycle routes, community sports centres, and easy DLR trips to museums and attractions across London.

Pet-friendly living in Cubitt Town is supported by access to spacious green areas and riverside walks. Mudchute Park and Farm provides large open spaces ideal for dog walking, while the Thames Path offers scenic walking and running routes.

The area features several local vets and pet shops catering for everyday animal care needs. Many modern developments in Cubitt Town are pet-friendly, though rules may vary between buildings so potential renters or buyers are advised to check specific policies. Parks and open spaces make Cubitt Town a practical choice for dog owners, and the area is generally welcoming to pets both in public and across the housing market.

Cubitt Town boasts strong transport links, giving residents easy access to central London and beyond. The area is served by the Docklands Light Railway (DLR), with nearby stations including Island Gardens and Crossharbour. These provide quick journeys to Canary Wharf (roughly 10 minutes), where connections to the Jubilee line and Elizabeth line expand travel options across London.

Bus routes along Manchester Road link Cubitt Town with neighbouring areas like Poplar, Greenwich, and Bethnal Green. The A1206 road encircles the Isle of Dogs, with the nearby A13 connecting to main road networks.

The Thames Clipper river bus service from Masthouse Terrace Pier offers a scenic and swift connection to Greenwich and central London piers, popular among commuters and leisure travellers alike.

Commute Times to Major Hubs:

• Canary Wharf – approx. 10 mins via DLR
• The City (Bank) – approx. 25 mins via DLR interchange
• Greenwich – approx. 10 mins via pedestrian foot tunnel or Thames Clipper
• London City Airport – approx. 30 mins by DLR

Families looking at schools in Cubitt Town have several options, with a selection of both state and independent educational institutions within and near the area.

Primary Schools:
Cubitt Town Primary School is central to the community, located on Manchester Road, and serves a diverse intake of pupils. St. Luke’s Church of England Primary School is another popular option and has a strong reputation locally. Harbinger Primary School, situated on Westferry Road, has been consistently rated Good by Ofsted (last rated 2019). Millwall Primary School is also nearby, known for its inclusive environment and Good Ofsted rating.

Secondary Schools:
In terms of secondary schools in Cubitt Town, students often attend George Green’s School (Ofsted Good, last rated 2019), on Manchester Road, which has a long-standing presence in the community. Canary Wharf College Crossharbour offers secondary provision, while Langdon Park School and East London Science School are options accessible via nearby public transport.

Colleges & Sixth Form:
George Green’s School includes a sixth form that caters to local students. Further education opportunities are available at New City College’s Tower Hamlets campus, just a short journey from Cubitt Town, offering a wide range of courses and vocational options.

Universities:
There are no universities directly within Cubitt Town, but the area benefits from excellent links to major universities elsewhere in London. Queen Mary University of London in Mile End and University of Greenwich across the river are both easily accessible by DLR or Thames Clipper riverboat services.