Wapping

The word 'Wapping' has multiple meanings. It refers to a district in East London within the borough of Tower Hamlets, historically a marshy area along the river that became a vital part of the Docklands. In the 1980s, it was famously the site of Rupert Murdoch's newspaper company and associated trade union conflicts. Today, luxury accommodation has replaced many former industrial sites. Historically, from the mid-16th to the early 18th century, 'wapping' was also a slang term for sexual intercourse, derived from the verb 'wap' which could mean to hit or strike roughly. It could also be an archaic form of 'whopping', meaning exceptionally large.

Wapping is generally considered a very pleasant area to visit, especially if you are staying or exploring close to the river. It boasts numerous historic pubs and charming old warehouse conversions that offer a unique atmosphere. It's a popular location for those working in nearby Canary Wharf and has a character that appeals to many visitors.

Historically, Wapping was infamous for 'Execution Dock', a site where pirates and other water-borne criminals met their end. They were executed by hanging from a gibbet constructed near the low water mark, with their bodies left to be submerged by the tide three times as a grim spectacle.

Indeed, the pop megastar Cher once owned a striking home in Wapping. Her former flat was located in Oliver's Wharf, one of the UK's pioneering loft-style developments situated on Wapping High Street. This building is now Grade II-listed.

Wapping's history is deeply intertwined with the River Thames and its role as a major port. It was once a marshy area that developed into a crucial part of London's Docklands. The area experienced significant transformation in the 1980s, particularly with the rise of new media and the infamous 'Wapping dispute'. Today, its heritage is visible in its preserved architecture and riverside charm.