Things to do in Greenwich London

Want to know what to do in greenwich london? Greenwich is a beautiful leafy green district of London situated on the south bank of the River Thames. Greenwich has rich history, maritime heritage, and a world heritage site. It has many Notable attractions such as the Greenwich Royal Observatory, Cutty Sark, and Greenwich Park.

This Guide on the top things to see and things to do in Greenwich London will show where to go and how to make the most of your day out in this beautiful part of the city.

There are so many things to do when visiting Greenwich you will be spoilt for choice with places such as the Painted Hall, The Queens House and Greenwich Market. Many people head to the likes of the West End or Covent Garden but A trip to sight-see in Greenwich is perfect.

A Guide on the top things to see and do in Greenwich London

How To get to Greenwich

Greenwich is also easily accessible by public transport, including trains, buses, and the Docklands Light Railway (DLR). There are two main stations to exit for Greenwich; Cutty Sark and Greenwich. Both are operated by the Docklands light railway. You can also get off at Island Gardens and walk under the Thames in the Greenwich for tunnel. Alternatively you can use Maze Hill Station.

Greenwich has lots to offer, including some hidden gems you may never knew existed, so take a look at these things to do day out in Greenwich London.

Where is the best view in Greenwich London?

The best view in Greenwich is up on One tree hill at the royal observatory. The best view from royal observatory greenwich is to the right over looking the Thames.

Visit the Greenwich Maritime Museum 

One of the most obvious places to start is at the Greenwich Maritime Museum. The museum is also known as the National Maritime Museum, which is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the maritime history and heritage of Britain. Situated within the University of Greenwich area

Housed in the former Royal Hospital School, the museum boasts an extensive collection of artefacts, artworks, and interactive exhibits that tell the story of Britain’s maritime past. Visitors can explore various galleries and displays that cover topics such as exploration. These include naval warfare, trade, and the impact of the sea on art and culture. You can even find yourself on the Great Map which is an ideal starting point for your National Maritime Museum adventure.

One of the museum’s highlights is the Nelson, Navy, Nation gallery, which focuses on the life of Admiral Lord Nelson. It showcases objects Such as Nelsons jacket and documents related to Nelson’s life, including his personal possessions and items from the Battle of Trafalgar. You can also discover Turner’s largest painting, a watch recovered from the Titanic and some of the most historic figure heads from maritime history.

The museum offers a range of educational programs, workshops, and temporary exhibitions that cater to visitors of all ages. It provides a unique opportunity to learn about maritime exploration, scientific discoveries, and the global impact of Britain’s naval power.

Where: Romney Rd, London SE10 9NF

Opening times: 10am-5pm (last entry 4.15pm):

Cost: Free Entry

Explore the Greenwich Royal Observatory

One of the best things to do in Greenwich London is the  Greenwich Royal Observatory . The Royal Observatory, also known as the Royal Observatory Greenwich, has a rich history and is renowned for its significant contributions to astronomy, navigation, and timekeeping.

The observatory, perched on a hill in Greenwich Park, is most famous as the home of the Prime Meridian Line. Visitors can also stand on the Prime Meridian Line and explore the observatory’s grounds, enjoying panoramic views of London’s skyline and the River Thames. It is one of the best views of London with a view over Greenwich with Canary Wharf in the distance.

Inside the observatory, visitors can delve into the world of astronomy and scientific discovery. The Astronomy Galleries provides insights into the history of astronomy, celestial navigation, and space exploration. Exhibits showcase historic instruments, telescopes, and interactive displays that make learning about the universe engaging and accessible.

The observatory is also home to the historic Great Equatorial Telescope, a significant instrument used for astronomical observations. Although it is no longer in active use, it serves as a reminder of the observatory’s scientific heritage.

Stand on prime meridian line and Learn about Greenwich Meantime

The Prime Meridian line, is at 0 degrees longitude and serves as the starting point for measuring longitude around the Earth. The Prime Meridian runs from the North Pole to the South Pole and passes through the Royal Observatory. This location was established as the Prime Meridian at the International Meridian Conference in 1884.

The concept of the Prime Meridian is crucial for navigation and timekeeping because it divides the Earth into Eastern and Western Hemispheres. It also sets the basis for the world’s time zones. Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) or Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) is based on the time at the Prime Meridian. This makes GMT a globally recognized standard for timekeeping.

Visiting the Prime Meridian Line allows you to stand in both the Eastern and Western Hemispheres at the same time!. The line is marked by a brass strip on the ground, and visitors can straddle the line or take photos to commemorate their position at the dividing point of the world.

Where: Blackheath Ave, London SE10 8XJ

Cost: £19 for adults, £9 for children. Day pass for Cutty Sark and the Royal Observatory is £27 for adults and £13.50 for children.

Opening times: 10am-5pm (last entry 4.15pm)

Greenwich market

Greenwich Market is a vibrant and bustling market offering a diverse and eclectic mix of stalls, shops, and food vendors, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere.

The market has a rich history dating back to the 18th century and has evolved into a popular destination for both locals and tourists. It is situated within the historic Greenwich town centre. At Greenwich Market, you’ll find a wide range of goods and products on offer and even vintage items and Antiques.. The market is known for its focus on independent traders, artisans, and local producers. You can browse through stalls selling arts and crafts, vintage clothing, antiques, handmade jewellery ry, artwork, and much more.

When it comes to food, Greenwich Market is a food lover’s paradise. It offers many food stalls with a wide selection of food delights from around the world. You can savor delicious street food, enjoy freshly baked goods, and indulge in specialty treats.

Apart from shopping and dining, Greenwich Market often hosts live music performances, cultural events, and seasonal festivals. These events add to the vibrant atmosphere and provide entertainment for visitors of all ages.

Address: 5B Greenwich Market, London SE10 9HZ

Explore the Queens House

The Queen’s House is a remarkable historic building built between in the 17th Century and is renowned for its stunning architecture and art collection.

It was designed by the architect Inigo Jones and commissioned Queen Anne of Denmark the wife of King James the 1st in 1616. The Queen’s House is considered one of the finest examples of classical architecture in Britain. It is a masterpiece of symmetry and elegance, featuring a distinctive Palladian style.

Inside the Queen’s House, visitors can explore its beautifully restored rooms and galleries. The house is home to a remarkable collection of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from different periods. Notable artworks include pieces by famous artists such as Hans Holbein, William Hogarth, and Thomas Gainsborough.

One of the highlights of the Queen’s House is the iconic Tulip Stairs, an exquisite spiral staircase that is one of the earliest examples of its kind in England.

The Queen’s House is part of the Royal Museums Greenwich and offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and artistic heritage of the royal court.

Where:  Romney Rd, London SE10 9NF

Opening times: 10am-5pm (last entry 4.15pm)

Cost: Free Entry

View the Stunning painted hall 

The Painted Hall is a magnificent masterpiece located in the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich. It is renowned for its breathtaking Baroque ceiling paintings created by Sir James Thornhill.

Visiting the Painted Hall is a must do when in Greenwich it is known as the ‘UK’s Sistine Chapel’, and is a true masterpiece. The ceiling paintings depict allegorical and historical scenes, celebrating British naval power, maritime trade, and the monarchy. The level of detail and craftsmanship is truly awe-inspiring.

The Lower Hall of the Painted Hall is particularly famous, featuring the “Triumph of Peace and Liberty over Tyranny” painting on its ceiling. This masterpiece covers a vast area and took Thornhill nearly two decades to complete.

A Guided tour is recommend to provide you with insights into the significance of the artwork and the historical context in which it was created. Tickets can be purchased in advance and are valid for one year after entry.

Where: Old Royal Naval College, London SE10 9NN

Cost: Tickets cost £15 for adults and children are free. Valid for 12 months when you register with one of the visitor experience staff on the day of your visit. Tickets can be purchased online and in person

Opening times: The Painted Hall, Chapel and Visitor Centre are open daily, 10am–5pm. The grounds are open daily 8am–11pm.

Climb Onboard The Cutty sark 

The Cutty Sark is a legendary clipper ship. Built in 1869, it is one of the last surviving tea clipper ships from the era of sailing vessels. The Cutty Sark played a significant role in the tea trade between China and Britain.

Visiting the Cutty Sark allows you to explore this majestic ship and learn about its fascinating history. Step aboard and wander through the restored interiors, including the cargo hold, crew quarters, and the deck. Gain insights into the life of the sailors who once navigated the high seas on this renowned vessel.

The ship’s design, with its towering masts, and rigging, is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of its builders.

The Cutty Sark experience goes beyond the ship itself. The adjacent museum provides a wealth of information about the ship’s history and the era of the great tea clippers. Exhibitions showcase artifacts, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations that bring the ship’s story to life.

Surrounding the Cutty Sark is a beautiful waterfront area, with scenic views of the River Thames and the Greenwich skyline.

Where: Greenwich Pier

Cost: £19 for adults, £9 for children. Day pass for Cutty Sark and the Royal Observatory is £27 for adults and £13.50 for children.

Opening times: 10am-5pm (last entry 4.15pm)

Admire the Rangers House with the Werhner Collection

Ranger’s House is an elegant Georgian villa on the boundary of Greenwich Park and Blackheath which houses The Wernher Collection. The house was built in the early 18th century and was built for Vice Admiral Charles Hosier. It was later known as Chesterfield House after the 4th Earl of Chesterfield, who inherited the lease in 1748.

The house had no collection inside it at one point and the Wernher collection had no home. The two have been combined enabling people to see the contents of a very intriguing collection.

The world-class art Renaissance collection was assembled by Sir Julius Wernher  and is displayed at Ranger’s House. Sir Julius was a German-born businessman. He made his money through South African diamond mines and made a fortune in South Africa in the 1870s before settling in England. At the time he was one of the wealthiest men in Europe and his collection of Fine art, bronzes and trinkets tell a story of his travels around the world

The collection is on loan to the English Heritage for 125 years. You can expect to find over 700 works of art at the Rangers House. Including medieval sculptures, glittering enamels, ornate jewellery, Renaissance paintings including Madonna of the Pomegranate (Madonna della Melagrana) from Sandro Botticelli’s workshop, Dutch Old Masters and French tapestries and ornate furniture.

Where: Chesterfield Walk, Blackheath, London, SE10 8QX

Opening times: Wed to Sunday 11am to 4pm.

Cost: Adults £12.50 children £7.50

Visit Greenwich Royal Park 

Visiting Greenwich Park is a delightful park that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and breathtaking views. From here you can admire sweeping views over London’s skyline at One Tree Hill. The park is a vast green space that provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city. It also has some interesting history and there was once a Saxon barrow cemetery on its site which is an ancient burial ground dating back to the 6-7th century.

As you explore Greenwich Park, you’ll be greeted by rolling landscapes, vibrant gardens, and ancient trees. The park offers a wonderful setting for leisurely walks, picnics, or simply basking in the peaceful atmosphere. It’s an ideal place to relax, unwind, and connect with nature.

The park’s beauty is enhanced by its rich history. It was once a hunting ground for Henry VIII and later became a venue for royal pageants and tournaments. You can even see the bath remains of Montague House, home to Queen Caroline who was the estranged wife of King George IV in the park. It is now the perfect place to take picnic or walk up the hill for glorious views of the Thames and London.

Opening times: Daylight hours 6am to 8am

Address:  London SE10 8QY

Visit Eltham palace one of the best things to do in Greenwich London

Originally a medieval royal palace, Eltham palace was transformed into an Art Deco mansion in the 1930s. The house’s sleek design is the epitome of Art Deco luxury and Take just a few steps away you and travel back in time from Art Deco times to a medieval masterpiece. The palace is known for its unique combination of medieval and modern architecture, creating a captivating and visually stunning experience.

Visitors to Eltham Palace can explore the beautifully restored interiors, which showcase the luxurious lifestyle of its former owners, Stephen and Virginia Courtauld. The rooms are adorned with exquisite furnishings, elegant decor, and innovative design elements that reflect the glamour of the Art Deco era.

The palace also boasts magnificent gardens, including a moat, a sunken rose garden, and a tranquil rock garden. The outdoor spaces provide a peaceful setting for visitors to relax and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings.

Guided tours and audio guides are available to provide insights into the history and significance of Eltham Palace, allowing visitors to delve into its rich past and architectural transformation.

Where: Court Yard, London SE9 5QE

When: Open daily 10am-5pm

Cost: Booking online saves 10% with adults being £18 and children £11.

Climb the O2

Climbing the O2 is an exhilarating adventure activity located at The O2, an iconic entertainment venue in Greenwich. It offers a unique opportunity to scale the roof of the O2 Arena, providing some of the best views of the city skyline.

During the climb, participants wear a specially designed climb suit and harness, and are accompanied by experienced guides who ensure safety throughout the ascent. The climb involves walking along a fabric walkway that spans the roof of the dome-shaped arena, which is a distinctive feature of the O2.

Reaching the summit of the O2 offers breathtaking 360-degree views of London, including notable landmarks such as the Canary Wharf, the River Thames, and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. It’s a memorable way to appreciate the city’s skyline and capture stunning photographs.

For those seeking adventure and a unique perspective of London, Climbing the O2 offers an unforgettable experience. It combines physical activity, stunning views, and the thrill of conquering the iconic O2 Arena. The climb typically takes around 90 minutes, including safety briefings and preparation.

Address: Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX

Cost: Prices vary from £35 for daytime to £42 for Sunset climbs.

Opening times: Vary check the website

Greenwich foot tunnel 

Let’s make Greenwich a bit more exciting by taking the Greenwich foot tunnel, its one of my favourite things to do near greenwich. Ok so, it might not be great if your kids do not like walking but it takes only minutes and I have to say when my Nan walked me along the Greenwich foot tunnel when I was a kid I found it fascinating!

The Greenwich Foot Tunnel is a pedestrian tunnel that crosses the River Thames, connecting Greenwich in South London to the Isle of Dogs in East London.

The foot tunnel was opened in 1902 and remains an important transportation link in the area. It consists of a well-lit, tiled tunnel that runs approximately 370 meters (1,214 feet) beneath the riverbed. The tunnel can be accessed through entrance domes located on both sides of the river.

To find the Greenwich Foot Tunnel, get off at island gardens DLR and walk straight across the road down an ally by a coffee shop. Follow signs to Greenwich foot tunnel. 

At the foot tunnel entrance is island gardens with views across the Thames to Greenwich college. The Walk under the tunnel takes 10 minutes and you will come out at the Cutty Sark. 

Greenwich foot tunnel opening times

The Greenwich foot tunnel is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The Fan Museum

The Fan Museum is a unique institution entirely dedicated to exploring the rich history, culture, and craftsmanship associated with fans. This museum, characterized by its intimate scale, operates independently and has received accreditation from Arts Council England.

The museum finds its home in a meticulously restored pair of Grade II Listed townhouses dating back to the early Georgian period. These charming townhouses house both the museum and its exceptional collections.

With permanent and changing exhibitions you will explore the art, history and the making of a fans from around the world. The displays cover a comprehensive variety of fan types, materials used and types of fans. It really is a fascinating little museum.

Where: 2 Crooms Hill, Greenwich, London, SE10 8ER

Opening times: Wednesday to Saturday 11h00-17h00, with last entries at 16h30 each day.

Cost: Tickets are £5 for adults and £3 for children with concessions available

Thank you for reading my guide on The best things to do in Greenwich! I hope you have the best time in this historic picturesque Village!