Some summer afternoons in London are simply made for lingering. Last Saturday, I was invited to a Summer Celebration at Poplars, the newly opened restaurant perched at the top of the iconic Dickens Inn in St Katharine Docks, and it turned out to be one of those perfect, sun-drenched afternoons you just don't want to end!
Welcome to one of London's most charming waterside dining spots, and today I'm sharing everything about it with you on DOYOUSPEAKLONDON!
Poplars at The Dickens Inn: a summer gem at St Katharine Docks
Tucked just moments from the buzz of the City and a short stroll from Tower Bridge, St Katharine Docks is one of those corners of London that always manages to surprise.
This beautifully preserved marina feels like a little escape from the ordinary. Here you'll find calm waters, pretty boats bobbing gently, and an atmosphere that somehow makes you forget the rest of London is right on your doorstep!
It's peaceful, it's pretty, and it's full of character. If you haven't explored it properly yet, I have a full guide to St Katharine Docks waiting for you right here!
A little bit of history: The Dickens Inn
And sitting right at the heart of it is The Dickens Inn, one of the most recognisable landmarks at St Katharine Docks.
With its gorgeous timber-framed exterior, flower-filled balconies and buckets of historic character, this beautifully restyled 18th-century building is hard to miss and even harder to walk past without wanting to step inside.
The inn was officially opened in May 1976 by Cedric Charles Dickens, grandson of the great novelist himself, who famously said: "My Great Grandfather Charles Dickens would have loved this inn."
Originally a warehouse building, it was carefully preserved and transformed into the three-storey, balconied inn that graces St Katharine Docks today. Its stripped wooden structure, nautical touches and antique character give it a genuinely unique atmosphere, unlike almost anywhere else in London.
Whether you pop in for a pint in the Tavern Bar downstairs or head all the way up to Poplars for a long, leisurely lunch, The Dickens Inn has a wonderful knack for delivering exactly what the moment calls for!
Poplars Restaurant: a fresh new experience at the top
Named in honour of Charles Dickens' love for community and gathering, Poplars brings a genuinely fresh dining concept to St Katharine Docks. Think vibrant small plates designed for sharing, seasonal favourites served at a relaxed pace, and a balcony with views over the marina that are simply hard to beat.
On the day, we were treated to a spread of small plates including fresh salads, tender chicken, plump shrimps and more, all designed to be shared and grazed over at a leisurely pace. Exactly right for a sunny summer afternoon!
What I loved most about the menu, though, was the spirit behind it: dishes designed to be passed around the table, discovered together, paired with something chilled in hand and enjoyed without any rush.
And there's plenty more to explore on the full menu, from burgers to steaks and Sunday roasts.
From Poplars' balcony, you look straight out over the St Katharine Docks marina. It's one of those settings that instantly makes you slow down, breathe a little deeper and simply enjoy being in the moment.
The event I attended was sponsored by Aspall, and the cider was the ideal companion for a warm summer afternoon: crisp, refreshing and a lovely match for the dockside setting.
If you prefer to stay inside, the space will wins you over as well: exposed timber beams and aged wooden walls are paired with deep forest-green velvet chairs and simple wooden tables. Old soul, fresh energy. Instantly inviting!
On a sunny afternoon, there is genuinely nowhere better than Poplars! The combination of the fresh air, the waterside atmosphere and the cheerful backdrop of Tower Bridge nearby makes Poplars feel like a little holiday right in the middle of London. Pure magic!
💸 And I've saved the best for last: grab 25% off food & drinks at Poplars with code DICKENSSUMMER, valid until 30th June 2026! A lovely little bonus to discover this beautiful new spot for even less!
Have you visited St Katharine Docks or The Dickens Inn? I'd love to hear what you think, share your experience on DOYOUSPEAKLONDON!
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Everything you need to know about Poplars at The Dickens Inn:
Poplars Restaurant at The Dickens Inn: St Katharine's Way, St Katharine Docks, London E1W 1UH
Nearest tube:Tower Hill (Circle & District Line)
Website: dickensinn.co.uk
Bookings: Book via the website — select 'Poplars Restaurant'
Discount code: DICKENSSUMMER for 25% off food & drinks throughout June!
I was invited to visit Poplars as a guest for the Summer Celebration event. As always, all opinions are entirely my own.
Poplars restaurant London| The Dickens Inn | St Katharine Docks | Waterside dining London | Summer dining London | Restaurants near Tower Bridge | Outdoor dining East London.
