Canary Wharf and the City of London are two of the places our business customers drive to most. They're only a few miles apart, but the rules for driving in each are quite different. Here's how to plan a day that takes in one or both.
The key difference: the Congestion Charge
- The City of London is inside the Congestion Charge zone. If you drive there during charging hours, the charge applies.
- Canary Wharf is outside it. Driving to and around Docklands doesn't incur the Congestion Charge.
Charging hours are 7am to 6pm on weekdays, and 12pm to 6pm on weekends and bank holidays, with no charge on Christmas Day. Always check the current hours with Transport for London. See the Congestion Charge.
The ULEZ applies everywhere
The Ultra Low Emission Zone covers all London boroughs and runs 24 hours a day, every day except Christmas Day. It applies in both Canary Wharf and the City. If you're unsure whether your hire car meets the standards, check its registration with Transport for London's vehicle checker before you drive. See the ULEZ.
Planning a day with meetings in both
If your day starts in Canary Wharf and ends in the City, or the reverse:
- Check your timings. Driving into the City during charging hours means paying the Congestion Charge for that day.
- Pay on the day. Pay the charge to Transport for London that evening to avoid a penalty notice.
- Plan parking at both ends. Parking works differently in each area.
Parking in Canary Wharf
Office buildings in Canary Wharf often have their own parking arrangements, and the estate has public car parks. Ask your host before you arrive, and check height limits if you're driving an SUV.
Parking in the City
Street parking in the City is limited and controlled. For a meeting of more than an hour, a car park is usually simpler. Read the signs carefully if you park on the street. See parking in London.
Timing your drive
Weekday rush hours are the slowest times to cross East London. Leave more time than a route planner suggests, and check for roadworks before you set off. If your first meeting is early, consider having the car delivered to your address the evening before, available at extra cost.
Which car for a business day
A saloon is the natural choice for client meetings: quiet, comfortable and discreet. If you're travelling with colleagues or equipment, an SUV gives you more room.
Starting from our depot
Our depot in Hainault, East London, is outside the Congestion Charge zone, so you can collect your car and reach Canary Wharf without crossing central London's charging zone.
For regular business travel
If your team drives to Canary Wharf and the City regularly, a business account keeps every hire, charge and document in one place.
Read more
Ready to book? Choose your dates on our cars page.