Shad Thames is now the best surviving example of a type of commercial street that was common in London Dockland before its gentrification and development. As such, it is now unique. Flanked by tall warehouses on either side, the street is crossed at different heights by lattice, wrought iron bridges. Across these suspended walkways, dockers would push barrows to transfers spices, foodstuffs and other high-value goods from river warehouses to destinations further inland.