Abiding memories for those that lived in Bermondsey until 1960s was the energy and industry of life close to the bustling docks of the River Thames. Standing on Tower Bridge and looking in both directions, upstream and downstream, the view was of ships, barges, cranes and constant activity - interrupted only by the grandeur of The Tower of London. The smells of produce emerging from ships' holds brought an unforgetable evocative experience that many still experience today when visiting the area. The docks closed in the 1960s and signalled the end of an era, changing the waterfront for ever.

This Port of London Authority booklet, that sold for one shilling (5p), tells the story of the docks. (pdf .. 8mb)