The name usually conjures up images of skyscrapers (to be fair we’ve counted at least 15) full of corporate business types who spill out into the nearby restaurants and upmarket shops before returning to work. And though this does occur, if you look deeper and stroll around this financial district, you’ll find great transport links, an exciting nightlife, diverse events and tranquil parks.

Whether by tube, DLR, bus or boat, Canary Wharf is connected. You can arrive at Euston, Victoria and Oxford Circus stations in 30, 25 and 20 minutes respectively via DLR. From the pier you can also easily travel to London Bridge, Chelsea (apparently people are made there) and Greenwich, but there are plenty of reasons to stay within the wharf.

With ice-skating, open-air concerts, the Royal Shakespeare Company, the London Marathon (well, mile 19 anyway) and the isle’s annual Squash Classic tournament, there’s far more to Canary Wharf than business.

These events coupled with the Everyman Cinema, pop up vintage fairs, quiz nights and regularly updated exhibitions at the Museum of London Docklands provide plenty of variety—and after all, isn’t that the spice of life?

If you stay beyond the 9-5, you’ll find bars, clubs and restaurants aplenty. Boisdale, located at Cabot Place, puts a twist on British food with innovative cuisine accompanied by live music. The Parlour Bar, residing in Canada Square features a mixology table allowing visitors to create their own concoctions and enjoy them whilst on the terrace. Ensure you visit The Attic Sky Bar at night as it is located on the 48^th floor of the Pan Peninsula and has a stunning view of the capital. Cocktails and canapes, wine and London’s skyline—not a bad way to spend an evening.

In terms of green spaces, you won’t find acres of rolling fields in this busy, urban district, but if you’re looking for something more modern, The Crossrail Place Roof Garden not only showcases plants but performance pieces from the drama, music, dance and spoken word worlds. So whether you’re into sunflowers or singers, there’s something for everyone. Other parks include Jubilee and Canada Square Park where you can sit on benches and watch the passers-by.

So though Canary Wharf may initially seem like a glass jungle or a place to work, it has brilliant links, plenty of culture and lots of LiFE.