January 2025 brings a packed calendar of thought-provoking exhibitions, engaging tours, and unique events to the London Museum Docklands.
Nestled in one of the city’s most storied areas, this museum combines its rich maritime history with a contemporary look at London’s evolving cultural identity. Here’s what’s in store this month for curious minds, culture enthusiasts, and history buffs alike.
Be Part of the Conversation with BBC Radio 4’s Any Questions?
Mark your calendar for 31 January 2025, as BBC Radio 4’s widely acclaimed political discussion programme, Any Questions?, takes over the museum from 6.30pm to 8.50pm. This unique event offers you the chance to immerse yourself in the buzz of a live broadcast while engaging with some of the UK’s top voices in politics, media, the arts, and beyond.
From pressing current affairs to broader societal debates, the evening promises insightful discussions and dynamic dialogue. Entry is free and open to all ages, so whether you’re a fan of sharp political analysis or just curious, it’s an evening not to be missed.
Immerse Yourself with Captivating Exhibitions
Exodus by Zak Ové – A Meditation on Migration
Running until 25 May 2025, Zak Ové’s Exodus turns the museum’s Reflections Room into a maze of meaning. This mixed-media installation dramatically depicts the interconnected history of migration, trade, and humanity. Colourful toy cars and wildlife figurines converge in a metaphorical traffic jam, resting on oil drums that nod to modern commerce and globalisation.
Complementing the installation is an evocative wall of historic maps documenting migration and trade routes spanning five centuries. The exhibition is free and suitable for all ages, making it both enlightening and accessible.
Holding Emotions – Processing the Legacy of the Past
For visitors engaging with the powerful London, Sugar & Slavery gallery, Holding Emotions provides a space to sit with—and process—your emotions. This collaborative installation, running until 9 February 2025, invites you to reflect on the legacy of Britain’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade. Created with input from Mind’s Race Equity Team and young collaborators, this free display also provides tools to help visitors process discomfort, anger or curiosity sparked by the gallery.
Exploring the Museum and Beyond – Tours for Every Interest
Whether you’re drawn to maritime history, ancient London, or hidden cultural stories, the museum’s range of tours is guaranteed to have something for you.
Secrets of the Warehouse Tour
Step back in time to uncover the working lives behind one of the last surviving West India Docks warehouses. Running daily from 5 to 26 January 2025 at 1.30pm, this tour grants access to areas normally closed to the public. Tickets start from £8, making it an excellent introduction to the building’s role in the bustling trade of sugar, rum, and tea.
Welcome to Docklands Tour
Trace the transformation of East London’s marshlands into the formidable Canary Wharf. Narrated through stories of dock workers, sailortowns, and wartime resilience, this Saturday series (from 4–25 January 2025) runs from 2-3.15pm, with tickets starting at £10.
Walking London’s Queer History
Join a fascinating exploration of London’s LGBTQIA+ history with this outdoor walking tour on 18 January 2025, from 3–4.30pm. Learn about late-night encounters at St Paul’s Cathedral, “controversial clothing” thieves, and the struggles and joys of queer life during Roman times, the medieval period, and beyond. At £15 per person, it’s an unmissable glimpse into the lives often omitted from standard history books.
Roman Fort Gate Tours
Dive deep into London’s ancient past with this specialised tour of the West Gate of Londinium on 5 and 27 January 2025, from 2–3pm. This adults-only tour (£10) also reveals insights into medieval and Roman-era London, with a visit to a charming, secluded garden.
Post-War Poplar and Call the Midwife
Relive the stories that inspired the beloved Call the Midwife series. This outdoor tour runs on 11 and 29 January 2025, with morning (10.30am) and afternoon (2pm) options. Trace Poplar’s history through landmarks such as Lansbury Estate, Chrisp Street Market, and All Saints Church. Tickets are £15, so fans of the show won’t want to miss this intimate look at its historical backdrop.
Smithfield Stories
Uncover captivating tales of Smithfield Market on 15 January 2025, complete with stops at landmarks like St. Bartholomew-the-Great and the Charterhouse. Tickets are priced at £15, and the tour lasts from 3–4.30pm. Expect anecdotes of executions, Henry VIII’s escapades, and even sightings of Sherlock Holmes in this timeless corner of London.
Transformation in Progress
It’s worth noting that the London Museum Docklands is in the midst of an exciting transition. Formerly known as the Museum of London Docklands, the name change took place in July 2024 as part of the institution’s broader transformation plan. In the near future, the museum will also shift from London Wall to a new home in Smithfield, marking a bold new chapter for this cultural landmark.
For details on the museum’s vision and updates on the new location, visit The Vision – Museum of London.
Plan Your Visit
With events and exhibitions highlighting everything from ancient history to modern social issues, London Museum Docklands invites you to explore the many layers of London’s past and present. Whether you’re attending the electrifying Any Questions? broadcast, wandering ancient Roman ruins, or simply reflecting on the exhibits, January 2025 has something for everyone.
Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of London’s rich story this month. Visit London Museum – Docklands to book your tickets and explore further.