Living in Silvertown

Community life in Silvertown balances the traditions of East London’s docklands with the energy of regeneration. Long-term residents, newer arrivals, and young families contribute to a diverse, evolving social fabric. The area has a growing sense of community fostered by local events, street markets, and a patchwork of neighbourhood networks.

Royal Wharf Community Dock, a local centre, acts as a hub for activities and social groups, while regular markets and pop-up fairs bring together artisan traders and residents. The proximity to green and recreational spaces – including Thames Barrier Park with its distinctive landscaped gardens – supports an active outdoor lifestyle. The Thames riverfront and Royal Docks offer opportunities for walking, running, and water sports, reinforcing Silvertown’s appeal for those who value access to open air and community spirit.

Like much of urban East London, Silvertown experiences a mixed safety profile with pockets of lower and higher crime rates, typical of rapidly regenerating metropolitan areas. The neighbourhood has seen considerable investment in infrastructure and new housing, contributing to an increased sense of safety for residents. Community policing is active in the Royal Docks and Silvertown area, while neighbourhood watch schemes and local initiatives aim to deter anti-social behaviour.

Crime rates in Silvertown are generally consistent with those found in other East London post-industrial areas, with typical concerns including petty theft and occasional disturbances. Regeneration efforts and increased population density have been associated with a rise in amenities and improved street lighting, enhancing the overall perception of safety. As with any London district, safety can vary by street and time of day, but active local engagement and council-led outreach support ongoing improvements.

Parking in Silvertown can be variable, reflecting its ongoing redevelopment and proximity to major transport infrastructure. Newer residential developments often provide secure underground or allocated parking, while traditional streets may offer a mix of on-street and residents’ permit spaces. The local council operates controlled parking zones throughout much of the area to manage demand and availability.

Congestion is a consideration during peak times, especially near Silvertown Way and the approaches to the Blackwall Tunnel. The upcoming Silvertown Tunnel project is expected to alleviate some local traffic pressure, offering an improved Thames crossing toward the south-eastern suburbs. The A1020 and A13 offer efficient access for those travelling by car.

For driving times to nearby destinations:

• Canary Wharf – approx. 10 minutes via Lower Lea Crossing
• Stratford – approx. 15 minutes via A112
• Greenwich – approx. 10 minutes via Blackwall Tunnel
• Central London – approx. 25 minutes via A13
• Essex – approx. 35 minutes via A13

Silvertown’s food and drink scene is on the rise, with a growing selection of independent cafes and restaurants reflecting its regeneration. The area is known for riverside dining options such as the restaurants at Royal Wharf and on the Royal Docks, offering a modern take on cuisines from across the world.

Local pubs, such as the Fox @ Connaught and the Oasis Lounge, provide relaxed environments for socialising, while waterside bars and informal eateries are increasingly popular with both locals and visitors. Takeaways and small restaurants offer a variety of choices, including Caribbean, Indian, and traditional British fare.

Nightlife in Silvertown itself is understated but within easy reach of lively scenes in nearby Canning Town, Canary Wharf, and Stratford. The O2 Arena in North Greenwich is a short journey away, providing a major venue for concerts, clubs, and events, while Docklands and ExCeL London host an array of bars and late-night establishments. Overall, Silvertown offers a more relaxed social pace with a cosmopolitan edge.

School quality: Silvertown benefits from access to several OFSTED-rated 'Good' and 'Outstanding' schools, alongside expanding early years provision linked to new developments.

Parks and green space: Thames Barrier Park and the riverside walkways provide ample space for family outings, play, and leisure, essential for a balanced urban lifestyle.

Childcare: The area offers a growing selection of nurseries, preschools, and after-school clubs, reflecting increased demand from young families moving into new developments.

Safety: Silvertown maintains an improving safety profile thanks to regeneration and a growing residential population; neighbourhood watch initiatives help support a secure family environment.

Family activities: Family-friendly attractions nearby include the Crystal, ExCeL London, and various seasonal markets and waterside events, making Silvertown increasingly attractive for households with children.

Pet-friendly living in Silvertown is increasingly accessible, with open green spaces such as Thames Barrier Park and the riverfront paths providing good options for walking dogs and other outdoor pursuits. Many of the new residential developments are welcoming to pets, subject to reasonable lease agreements, and there is a growing recognition of pet ownership within the local community.

Local amenities include veterinary clinics in nearby Custom House and Docklands, as well as several pet supply shops and dog grooming services. The area's proximity to the Thames river path and additional green corridors makes it suitable for active pets and those seeking a riverside lifestyle with animals. Pet-friendly cafes and some outdoor eating establishments offer water bowls and treats, further enhancing Silvertown's appeal for animal lovers.

Silvertown benefits from excellent transport links that connect it to the rest of London and beyond. The area is serviced by the Docklands Light Railway (DLR), with Pontoon Dock and West Silvertown stations providing access to Canary Wharf, the City, and connections to the wider Transport for London (TfL) network.

For air travel, London City Airport is located just east of Silvertown, making international and domestic flights extremely convenient for residents. Several key bus routes operate through Silvertown, providing links to Canning Town, Stratford, North Greenwich, and East Ham.

Road access is facilitated by the A1020 and the Silvertown Way, which connect to the A13 for direct routes into Central London and towards Essex. The Thames Barrier Park Thames Clipper service offers riverboat transportation, while cycling is supported by new cycle lanes and proximity to the Thames Path.

• Canary Wharf – approx. 15 minutes via DLR
• Central London (Bank) – approx. 25 minutes via DLR
• Stratford – approx. 20 minutes via DLR and Jubilee line
• London City Airport – approx. 5 minutes (DLR or car)

Future transport developments, including the planned Silvertown Tunnel, are expected to further enhance accessibility to south London and Greenwich.

Primary Schools in Silvertown

Silvertown is well-served for primary education. The Britannia Village Primary School is a notable choice within the immediate area and was rated 'Outstanding' by Ofsted in 2018. St Luke's Primary School, also nearby, received a 'Good' rating from Ofsted in its last inspection. Drew Primary School, serving the Royal Docks area, is another popular option, rated 'Good' by Ofsted in 2019. Hallsville Primary School in adjacent Canning Town offers further educational opportunities within easy reach.

Secondary Schools in Silvertown

For secondary education, Silvertown’s closest options include the Royal Docks Academy, which caters to students from ages 11 to 16 and was rated 'Requires Improvement' in its latest Ofsted inspection in 2019. The Oasis Academy Silvertown had a 'Good' Ofsted rating in 2017 and has become an increasingly popular choice with local families. Kingsford Community School and Eastlea Community School in nearby Beckton and Canning Town are also accessible, with both rated 'Good' by Ofsted in recent years.

Sixth Forms, Colleges, and Further Education

For further education, Newham Sixth Form College (NewVIc) in Plaistow is a highly regarded option with a wide course offering and supportive environment. The London Design & Engineering UTC, situated close to Royal Albert Dock, provides specialist STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) education for students aged 14-19.

Universities in Silvertown

While there are no universities directly in Silvertown, the University of East London has a major campus in the nearby Docklands area. Its campus boasts modern facilities and a diverse student population, placing Silvertown within easy reach of higher education opportunities in East London.