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My guide to the top attractions and things to do in Greenwich, London…
London is renowned for its rich history and vibrant culture, and Greenwich is one of the best places to experience both. This charming area is one of my personal favourite parts of London. With its village vibes and tranquil parks, it feels a world away from the busy city centre – yet it’s also home to some of the city’s most iconic attractions.
From stunning architectural marvels to a fab indie shopping scene, there’s a lot to discover! Whether you’re a history lover, a foodie, or simply looking for a fun and affordable day out, Greenwich has something for everyone. Here’s my round-up of some of the top things to do in this captivating part of London.
Top Things to do in Greenwich
Royal Observatory Greenwich
Stand with a foot in each hemisphere at the Prime Meridian Line and explore the UK’s largest refracting telescope, a 4.5 billion-year-old asteroid, and the only planetarium in London. The Royal Observatory also offers interactive displays, historical timekeeping devices, and fascinating insights into the history of astronomy.
Cutty Sark
Climb aboard the world’s last surviving tea clipper, built at the end of the golden age of sail. Discover what life was like aboard this 19th-century ship and walk beneath its hull, which is suspended mid-air. The Cutty Sark offers interactive exhibits, engaging tours, and stunning views of the River Thames from its decks.
Greenwich Market
A bustling market offering a mix of designer-maker arts and crafts, antiques, and street food. It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs, enjoy delicious treats, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Greenwich. The market is open daily, with special themed markets on weekends.
London Cable Car
Take a flight over the River Thames on the IFS Cloud Cable Car for a unique perspective of the city. Enjoy panoramic views of London landmarks, including the O2 Arena, Canary Wharf, and the Olympic Park, as you glide across the river.
Top Tip: The cable car is operated by Transport for London and can be paid for by contactless or Oyster card, just like the Tube and buses. The fare is £7 one way for adults.
Discover Greenwich at the Visitor Centre
Start your day in Greenwich at the Discover Greenwich exhibition, a newly renovated museum space housed in the Visitor Centre at the Old Royal Naval College. Opened in 2010, it features permanent exhibitions around a central circular glass model of the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site. Learn about Greenwich Palace, the Royal Hospital for Seamen, the Royal Naval College, and more.
Painted Hall
Within the grounds of the Old Royal Naval College, the Painted Hall, designed by Sir Christopher Wren and Nicholas Hawksmoor, is free to visit. James Thornhill completed its magnificent paintings over 19 years, which highlight the importance of the British navy. This stunning hall is sometimes used for banquets and weddings, and you may recognize it from the film Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.
Top Tip: Guided tours are available to provide deeper insights into the hall’s rich history and artwork.
The O2
Originally built as an exhibition hall to commemorate the Millennium, The O2 is now a major venue hosting concerts, exhibitions, and a variety of other events. Inside, you’ll find an array of restaurants, bars, and even an indoor skydiving experience.
Don’t Miss: Adventurous visitors can book a tour to climb the roof of this world-famous entertainment venue for breathtaking views of London.
National Maritime Museum
The National Maritime Museum, the world’s largest maritime museum, covers 500 years of Britain at sea and connects maritime history with modern life. Admiral Lord Nelson’s jacket, worn at the Battle of Trafalgar and featuring a bullet hole in the left shoulder from the fatal shot, is on display. Kids will love the ‘All Hands’ Gallery, a free indoor playground of learning.
Queen’s House
Next to the National Maritime Museum is the Queen’s House, designed by Inigo Jones in 1616 for Charles I’s queen, Henrietta Maria. It now houses the National Maritime Museum’s art gallery, featuring works by Canaletto and Van de Veldes, nautical maps and charts, medals and coins, carved figureheads, and other seafaring objects from the late 17th century until the early 20th century.
Don’t Miss: The Tulip Stairs and the Great Hall, two stunning architectural highlights.
Greenwich Park
Greenwich Park is the oldest enclosed Royal Park, covering 73 hectares (183 acres). It includes a boating lake and a deer park with red and fallow deer, but most visitors climb the hill for spectacular views next to The Observatory.
Time your visit to see the red ball drop on top of Flamsteed House, which can be viewed from the bottom of the hill. At 12:55 pm, the ball rises halfway up the mast, reaches the top at 12:58 pm, and drops exactly at 1:00 pm. Historically, this provided a time signal to passing ships, but today, it’s a fun experience, especially for younger visitors.
Eltham Palace and Gardens
A stunning mix of medieval and Art Deco architecture, surrounded by beautiful gardens. It’s a bit far out from central Greenwich, but well worth the visit. Explore the opulent interiors, including the Great Hall, the Art Deco dining room, and the elegant bedrooms. The gardens offer a tranquil retreat – look out for the medieval moat and sunken rose garden.
Map + Quick List!
- Royal Observatory Greenwich
- Cutty Sark
- Greenwich Market
- London Cable Car
- Discover Greenwich Visitor Centre
- Painted Hall
- The O2
- National Maritime Museum
- Queen’s House
- Greenwich Park
- Eltham Palace and Gardens
Greenwich truly offers a remarkable blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With so many diverse attractions and activities, it’s a destination that promises unforgettable experiences for every visitor. So, whether you’re exploring iconic landmarks or enjoying the serene parks, you’re sure to create lasting memories in this charming corner of London.
How many of these awesome Greenwich attractions have you visited? Let me know in the comments!
