places to visit in greenwich london

31 Things to do in Greenwich

Greenwich is a bustling, exciting and vibrant area of London which boasts a rich and interesting maritime history. Extremely popular with tourists and locals alike, there is so much to see and do in Greenwich, and many a historical fact to uncover.

Emirates Air Line Cable Car See great views over London on the Emirates Air Line Cable Car

The Emirates Air Line Cable car provides fantastic views over the capital as you glide across the Thames. Operating between Greenwich Peninsula, near the O2, to the Royal Docks, you get panoramic views across London for a different viewing experience.

Cabins arrive every 10 seconds, with the journey lasting 10 minutes. During these frequent crossings the London skyline will open out before you. This is a novel way to cross the river and if you do the return trip you will see the views from another perspective too.

The Jetty See What’s On At The Jetty?

There is always something happening on The Jetty. Formerly active in receiving coal for a nearby power station, today it hosts live music, events, workshops and so much more. With a focus on gardening and being green, it’s a beautiful, eco-friendly space to visit with stunning views over the river Thames.

If you fancy being green-fingered, you can pop by and volunteer for the day – they welcome all ages and abilities. It’s a wonderful place to get stuck in with an activity and if you fancy it, The Vagabond Café on the Peninsula’s Floating Garden is a lovely place to grab a bite to eat.

The Pilot Inn Grab great pub grub at The Pilot

The only ‘local’ pub in the vicinity of the O2, The Pilot is a cosy little bar and restaurant, has lots of outside seating, good food and is reasonably priced if you fancy a traditional pub experience as an alternative to the chains of restaurants that dominate the area.

Old Royal Naval College See the beauty of the Painted Hall Ceiling

The Old Royal Naval College is a site to behold. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was the birthplace of British Tudor monarchs including Henry VIII and Elizabeth I in its hospital days.

Various areas are free of charge to enter, but you can book guided tours to take you deeper into the college, including a tour of the Painted Hall Ceilings.

You can get up close and watch the painstaking restoration work of the conservatists as they continue to recondition the artwork of Sir James Thornhill, which took just under 20 years to paint and was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and Nicholas Hawksmoor. It’s truly fabulous and has to be seen!

Old Brewery Discover the Old Brewery At The Royal Naval College

For a yummy bite to eat in idyllic surroundings, head to The Old Brewery.

Located within the grounds of The Royal Naval College, you can eat and drink in either the gorgeous restaurant or on the large outdoor terrace, taking in the perfect, uninhibited views of the local architecture and surrounding buildings.

Perfect for a summer’s day!

The O2 Find A Bit Of Everything, For Everyone at The O2

The O2 is known worldwide as a large performance venue for the world’s best artists when in London, but did you know there is so much more you can do there? Formerly known as the Millennium Dome, it’s become a hive of activity and events and there will always be something going on when you visit as it is a leading entertainment venue in London.

You can pay to go ‘Up at the O2’, whereby you climb across the top of the dome. This is a great way to get some panoramic views and pictures of London, but isn’t for the faint of heart, as it involves heights and lots of climbing!

The O2 has a variety of bars and restaurants and other activities to discover; Indigo nightclub (a huge club venue), bowling, shopping and a cinema. You can even pretend you’re a Sky News presenter in the Sky studios, completely free of charge. It’s a great place to wander round and explore, especially on a rainy day, which there are lots of in London!

East Greenwich Pleasaunce Take A Relaxing Walk Through East Greenwich Pleasaunce

The East Greenwich Pleasaunce is a tranquil little tree-lined garden, and a cemetery for 3000 sailors who died at the Royal Hospital Greenwich and whose remains had to be moved due to the creation of a new railway line.

It’s a historical site that today boasts a children’s playground, a memorial area providing information about the sailors and how the bodies were moved, a café and toilet facilities.

The various species of trees make this a wonderfully peaceful area to take a stroll and relax in Greenwich and owing to its horticulture, it has retained a Green Flag Award, namely an award for being a publicly accessible and green space.

National Maritime Museum Sail Away At The National Maritime Museum

Completely free to enter, except for some paid exhibitions, this museum is the home of the history of the British Royal Navy.

There are so many remarkable items and curios to see, you’ll be entertained for hours on end.

Kids can get hands on in the interactive galleries and there is a gorgeous café and terrace with magnificent views of Greenwich Park.

Ranger’s House See the Wernher Collection at Ranger’s House

For a small entry fee you can explore this stunning Georgian villa on the border of Greenwich park. Home to the private art collection of Julius Wernher, it is one of the biggest private collections in Europe.

Jewellery, Renaissance paintings, sculptures and portraits add to the cultural and historical significance of this villa. Home to politicians and royals until the 20th century, there is an extensive past to uncover and so much to see.

Prince of Greenwich Museum Pub Have a drink at the Prince of Greenwich Museum Pub

Quirky your thing? Like Italian food? Want to take some fabulous pictures against interesting back drops? You have to visit the Prince of Greenwich Museum Pub.

This Victorian inn offers a cosy, warm and welcoming environment, great value food and live music on selected days, with some interesting items on display for your viewing pleasure.

NOW Gallery View Modern Art At The NOW Gallery

The NOW Gallery is a free to enter exhibition space in Greenwich Peninsula.

Showcasing contemporary art, design and fashion, their modern and unconventional pieces and installations can also be seen dotted around Greenwich.

Meantime Brewery Tour Meantime Brewery Tours And Beer Tastings

For a reasonable fee, you can take a tour of the Meantime Brewery in Greenwich.

The tour gives you a look at the brewers at work and their processes and, to top it all off you can enjoy a beer tasting afterwards. The tour takes around 1.5 hours and is a great way to end a day in Greenwich, or begin a night out!

Up the Creek Comedy Club Have A Laugh At Up The Creek Comedy Club

If comedy is your thing then check out Up The Creek Comedy Club.

Giving up and coming comedians a platform, tickets are inexpensive and it’s a great value night out and good for a giggle.

Trafalgar Tavern Grab A Drink Amongst History At The Trafalgar Tavern

Set appropriately on the Thames, with stunning views across the water, The Trafalgar Tavern is a quintessentially British pub, serving up great food in a beautiful setting.

Dating back to 1837, a life size statue of Lord Nelson stands proudly outside, and within you will find beautiful paintings and artworks that reflect the significance of this inn within British naval history.

There are benches outside so you can drink against the backdrop of the river, or simply relax inside by one of the bay windows as you marvel at the sights within the tavern’s cosy atmosphere.

Greenwich Foot Tunnel Go underground at Greenwich Foot Tunnel

You can walk deep underneath the Thames through the Greenwich foot tunnel. Over 100 years old, it links Greenwich to the Isle of Dogs and is free to enter and use.

Originally opened in 1902 to serve as an alternative path for the working class to cross the river as the ferry was so expensive, it remains a popular route for tourists crossing today.

Oliver’s Jazz Bar Get Funky At Oliver’s Jazz Bar

With jazz performances every day of the week, the best musicians and jam sessions three times a week, Oliver’s is a brilliant jazz bar, a great night out and entry is really reasonable.

The atmosphere is fantastic and during the winter months you can get cosy by the open fire as you tap away to some classic, funky jazz beats. A hidden gem, it’s a definite for lovers of jazz.

St Alfege’s Church Feel Welcome At St Alfege’s Church

In situ in Greenwich since St Alfege was martyred at the site in 1012, visitors are welcome to explore the church and take photographs completely free of charge.

Whilst respectability is expected, it’s a friendly environment and you’ll be offered a warm welcome to this historical site.

Greenwich Royal Park Explore The Sights Of Greenwich Royal Park

The views from Greenwich Park are a sight to behold. The oldest of the Royal Parks, this glorious landscape is steeped in history.

It’s a wonderful location to take a picnic or go for a peaceful stroll, and you might even see a deer or two!

Within the park, you’ll find Queen Elizabeth’s Oak. With its ‘roots’ in the twelfth century, legend has it that this oak tree was once a favourite resting spot of royals throughout British history.

The tree fell some time ago, but you can still visit the trunk which remains in situ in its original spot.

Eighteen Sky Bar Drinks Above The World At Eighteen Sky Bar

Close to the O2 is the exclusive Eighteen Sky Bar offering a very upmarket experience in its luxurious surroundings.

The bar boasts incredible views of the skyline, especially if the outside bar is open, as the glass panels allow uninhibited views across Canary Wharf from a prime viewpoint.

Queen’s House Discover famous artwork at The Queen’s House

Fancy nosing round the Queen’s House? Of course you do and you can visit it for free in Greenwich. Completed in 1636, it’s full of collections of world renowned art to explore, and you might even encounter a ghost as the house is said to be haunted!

This sprawling mansion has pillared walkways either side which make for some great photographic moments. Stunning both inside and out, there are masses of historical facts to uncover about its royal occupants, the architecture and the items held within.

Clock Tower Market Get curios At The Clock Tower Market

If you’re looking for the perfect gift, something memorable to take home or just fancy browsing the weird and wonderful, The Clock Tower Market is definitely for you!

Vintage clothing, retro items and even war paraphernalia is available here amongst antiques and other quirky items.

A smaller market place, you can browse the wares of 50 stallholders in this funky little environment. You really never know what you’ll find!

Clipper Bar Grab some cocktails at The Clipper Bar

Located by the O2, the Clipper Bar staff serve up beautiful, tasty cocktails in its elegant surroundings.

With stunning views across Canary Wharf, it’s a great place to grab a drink – you can even experience one of their unique G&T’s created from their exclusive clipper gin, a must for seafaring fans.

Greenwich Theatre Catch A Show At Greenwich Theatre

In the heart of Greenwich sits Greenwich Theatre.

Regularly hosting performances of old and new productions, it’s well worth seeing who or what is on when you visit. At Christmas they’re well known for putting on the best pantomimes.

Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park A Relaxing Walk Around Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park

A little hidden oasis in a built up area, Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park spans four acres of urban wetland. Free to enter, you can explore the park, the visitor centre and chat to the volunteers about the important work they’re doing.

Not only is the park vital to the regeneration of the Greenwich peninsula, it’s a beautiful relaxing space to unwind and gather your thoughts. Kids will love exploring the various species of insects and plants that inhabit the area and you may well learn something, too!

Greenwich Treasure Hunt Trail Explore the Greenwich Treasure Hunt Trail

A great way to explore Greenwich and learn all about its history is by taking part in one of the Greenwich Treasure Trails.

Purchasing one booklet is enough for a group of 5-6 people, and it’s a fun way to get to know the area whilst trying to make your way to the hidden treasure! The trail is 2.5 miles long and can be completed in your own time and at your own pace during the day.

Whatever age you are, you’ll be sure to have a great time taking part whilst learning some interesting information about the area and all that’s in it!

Maryon Wilson Park See the Animals at Maryon Wilson Park

Part of a local nature reserve, this beautifully landscaped park containing grassland and woodlands is a little gem. Known for its animal enclosures the park is an ideal place to enjoy a family day out. Sheep, goats, ducks, geese, pigs and chickens can be found here as well as deer.

Explore the park at your own leisure or take one of the tours, where the children can feed and interact with the animals. Set within a valley with streams running through the woods, this park is a peaceful haven amid the city.

Emirates Aviation Experience Learn to Fly at the Emirates Aviation Experience

Explore the world of the commercial airliner at the Emirates Aviation Experience, the first exhibition of its kind. Set over 300 square meters, state of the art technology and engaging interactive displays show you what it takes to run a modern-day airline business.

Take to the skies in one of their four flight simulators. Never flown before? Not a problem, as no prior experience is required. Led by an instructor you will learn the necessary basics to take-off and land the plane within a replica of a real cockpit.

Royal Observatory Greenwich Travel through space and time at the Royal Observatory

The Royal Observatory in Greenwich is the home of Greenwich Mean Time. Established in 1851, you can actually stand on the Meridian Line in the courtyard here. There is a reasonable entry fee, however if you just want to observe the building you can get up close free of charge.

The Royal Observatory is also home to Peter Harrison’s Planetarium, where you can see spectacular informative shows and relax in your chair looking up at the stars. There are even specific shows for children making it a great place to visit on a rainy day.

Greenwich Market Food and fun at Greenwich Market

With stalls and stalls of wonderful people selling wonderful items including crafts, clothes, antiques and so much more, Greenwich Market is a fun and vibrant day out. Vendors offer every type of street food you could imagine from hot scotch eggs, to churros, to South African quiches; there is something for everyone.

Boutique shops line the walkways and there’s a great pub inside the covered market, The Coach and Horses, serving reasonable drinks and pub grub so you can relax and enjoy the sites, smells, live music and buzzing atmosphere, right in the heart of Greenwich Market.

Fan Museum Become a fan of the Fan Museum

The world’s first museum dedicated to fans (no, not Beliebers or 1Directioners), this museum is reasonably cheap to enter and boasts stunning displays of fans past and present.

The elegant orangery is available as a walk-in service for afternoon tea – it’s well worth checking out if you fancy a bit of decadence.

Cutty Sark All aboard the Cutty Sark

Just set back from the river is the Cutty Sark, one of the last Tea Clippers to have been built.

You can pay to board and explore the ship, however the exterior is very accessible for free, meaning you can get some fabulous photographs of this piece British history without paying a thing.

15 Things to Do in Greenwich. The ULTIMATE Bucket List

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The Royal Borough of Greenwich in southeast London is a must-see, bucket-list-worthy place. From stunning architecture, world-class museums, a rich naval heritage, and beautiful green spaces loaded with history, here are the best things to do in Greenwich .

I visited Greenwich several times in the past few years. First on a day trip from central London, then repeatedly while living in the nearby Blackheath neighborhood.

Greenwich is one of my favorite parts of London because it’s blissfully quiet and remarkably elegant. All the English monarchs who spent time here, in a period when Greenwich was still underdeveloped and remote, left a deep mark.

As the name suggests, back in the day, Greenwich was a vast wild area. Even now it has one of the largest single green spaces in southeast London. And cute brown foxes with bushy tails can still be spotted on the streets, especially at night.

Recommended: 15 fantastic  day trips from London

How to get to Greenwich

Arriving in Greenwich is quite easy and you have plenty of options:

By riverboat: This is how I arrived in Greenwich the first time I visited and loved it. You can purchase a 1-day hop-on/hop-off Thames Clippers pass, get on the boat at one of the central piers, then off at Greenwich or Greenwich North (by the O2). If you return in the evening, you will have seen many of London’s landmarks, both during the day and when beautifully lit at night.

Emirates Air Line cable car: If you want to make an entrance, take the Emirates Air Line cable car from the Royal Docks to Greenwich North. This is great if you intend to explore Greenwich starting with the O2. Alternatively, you could arrive by boat and leave by cable car with a combo ticket.

DLR line: This is London’s driverless tube. You can get off at Greenwich station or Cutty Sark. I recommend the latter to save time. You can pay with your Oyster Card or contactless card. Same fare as the tube.

By train: If you stay somewhere near the London Bridge station or Cannon Street station, arriving by Southeastern train is also an option.

By tube: The only tube station in Greenwich is by the O2. Convenient only if you want to go to a concert or start/end your day in Greenwich North.

By bus: I did this once. Don’t even bother! It takes ages to get to Greenwich from central London and the ride isn’t even that interesting.

Best things to do in Greenwich

I’m sure you already have an idea of what to see in Greenwich – the Prime Meridian Line is world-famous after all. But in this Greenwich travel guide, I’ve included even more interesting sights so you can spend the perfect day in Greenwich. If you have more than 3 days in London , I highly recommend you visit.

Discover what life was like onboard Cutty Sark

If you arrive by boat, the first thing you’ll see is the breathtakingly beautiful Cutty Sark. This is one of the major Greenwich attractions. It was named after a witch in one of Robert Burn’s poems. Plus it was among the last tea clippers ever built and one of the fastest too.

You might be more familiar with the whiskey with the same name though. The alcoholic beverage was named for the sleek, record-breaking ship. In fact, the spirits company’s headquarters was only 10 miles away from where Cutty Sark was built in Glasgow!

The age of the tea clippers was surrounded by glamour and romance. But Cutty Sark served its original purpose as a tea clipper for only a few years. It had many later incarnations and during her active years, it visited almost all major ports in the world.

Cutty Sark now sits on a 3 meters high glass and steel structure. This makes it possible to walk around the hull – a marvelous experience!

You can take the wheel (one of the many original features), ring the bell, admire the impressive figurehead collection and even have afternoon tea in the café underneath the world’s only surviving tea clipper.

During your visit, you’ll be given an audio guide. You’ll also meet Cutty Sark’s longest-serving captain, the ship’s cook and the ship’s builder. They all make an appearance as actors dressed in period costumes and share fascinating stories about life at sea.

Visiting Cutty Sark is one of the best things to do in Greenwich with kids. But to be fair, it’s an enthralling experience for all ages.

Journey through space and time at the Royal Observatory

The Royal Observatory was built back in the 17th century on the site of the crumbling Greenwich Castle. Nowadays, the observatory is the main reason most people consider visiting Greenwich in the first place. Standing on the Prime Meridian Line, one foot in each hemisphere, certainly was top of my bucket list!

You can find the Prime Meridian marked on the ground in several places in Greenwich. The most accessible (and free) option can be found through a nondescript gate right next to the Royal Observatory. The little alley gets a bit crowded and you’ll have to wait in line to have your photo taken. On top of that, the brown-brick wall doesn’t precisely qualify as an exciting background.

Things improve dramatically if you visit the Royal Observatory. The stainless steel Meridian Line in the courtyard has ample space around it. You can easily jump or do other acrobatics and get an Instagram-worthy photo.

I have to say that a visit to the Royal Observatory opens a world of wonder. You’ll get to:

• See the Great Equatorial Telescope (the largest in the UK and the 7th largest in the world)
• Touch a 4.5 billion-year-old meteorite from outer space
• See historic marine clocks and exquisitely made, revolutionary timepieces, including the unique Dolphin Sun Dial
• Learn why the Prime Meridian runs through Greenwich
• As well as gain access to the Peter Harrison Planetarium

A quirky detail is that the Prime Meridian Line doesn’t really mark the 0° longitude anymore. That’s because the Earth’s crust is always moving. The real prime meridian is about 100 meters to the east, in the park, unceremoniously marked by a litter bin.

The Meridian Line inside the Royal Observatory offers way better photo ops, without a doubt.

Marvel at the Painted Hall inside the Old Royal Naval College

Designed by Christopher Wren, one of the most highly acclaimed English architects of all time, the Old Royal Naval College is a sight to behold.

To fully appreciate the stunning symmetry of the two buildings, with the Queen’s House right in the middle, you can:

• Go to Canary Wharf on the opposite shore (you can get there via the free foot tunnel under the Thames).
• Cruise the Thames all the way to the North Greenwich pier. To do this, I used the 1-day hop-on/hop-off Thames Clippers pass. I got off at Greenwich pier to see the sights and then took the boat to North Greenwich and back to central London just before sunset. This way I also saw the O2 from the water.
• Climb to the top of the hill where you’ll find a wonderful viewpoint right next to the Royal Observatory

Originally a retirement home for old sailors, then an advanced training establishment for naval officers, the Old Royal Naval College is now the architectural highlight of Greenwich.

You can wander the grounds, walk along the colonnades, marvel at the iconic twin domes (smaller replicas of the one at St Paul’s Cathedral), see the Victorian skittle alley, drop by the King William Undercroft (now a café), and visit the chapel.

However, the highlight is the recently restored Painted Hall, often regarded as England’s Sistine Chapel and one of the top places to see in Greenwich and maybe London.

Designed as a mess hall, it turned out so grant that it was immediately turned into an art gallery. What’s really cool about the whole experience is that after the restoration they placed several day beds around the room so you can marvel at the Baroque interior without straining your neck. How thoughtful, right?

Visit the National Maritime Museum

One of the many free things to see in Greenwich, the National Maritime Museum offers a fascinating journey through Great Britain’s maritime history.

Originally, the building was a school for the children of the sailors. Nowadays however it tells stories of exploration, piracy, world trade, and Polar expeditions.

Just outside the museum, you can see a scaled-down replica of HMS Victory in a bottle. This is the ship Admiral Nelson died on at the Battle of Trafalgar. It’s worth taking a moment to appreciate the level of detail and the stunning sails made of Indonesian batik.

Inside the museum, the uniform Admiral Nelson was wearing when he got fatally injured is on display. You can even see the hole left by the bullet!

The museum also hosts an impressive collection of figureheads and marine art, including Turner’s painting ‘The Battle of Trafalgar’.

And if you need a pick-me-up, the café overlooking Greenwich Park serves all kinds of delicious cakes and sandwiches.

See the Armada Portrait at the Queen’s House

The Queen’s House was the first Classical building in the UK. It was commissioned by King James I as a gift for his wife, Anne of Denmark, and built by the famous architect Inigo Jones.

The elegant proportions of the buildings kicked off a new architectural style across the country, a refreshing shift from the traditional, red-brick Tudor style.

The house was used by members of the royal family for nearly two centuries until it was finally passed on to a charity for the orphans of the seamen.

Among the highlights are the Tulip Staircase (considered one of the most beautiful spiral staircases in the world) and many works of art by artists like Turner and Canaletto.

But maybe the most impressive painting of them all is the Armada Portrait of Queen Elizabeth I. This is one of only three surviving versions of a panel commissioned in celebration of the defeat of the Spanish armada in 1588.

My favorite painting, however, was ‘Ship of Fools’ by Kehinde Wiley, who also painted Barack Obama’s official presidential portrait. ‘Ship of Fools’ is a wonderful and thoughtful allegory for the roots we carry with us wherever we go.

If you love art and beautiful interiors, the Queen’s House is a free attraction that you shouldn’t miss.

Browse the Greenwich Market

Greenwich Market is a brilliant and bustling place. Within a relatively tiny space, you’ll find all kinds of stalls and independent shops. Here you can buy handmade jewelry, crafts, and clothes and delicious food from all around the world!

It’s worth mentioning that vendors change from one day to the next. So Mondays will have a totally different vibe to Thursdays, for example. You can see a list of all market food stall here . They sell anything from Brazilian churros and Argentinian empanadas to Italian cannoli and vegetarian Ethiopian dishes.

The Fudge Patch is a mandatory stop if you have a sweet tooth and want to try this English delicacy. They have many delicious flavors to choose from. Plus they are an incredibly friendly bunch and encourage everyone to try their amazing chewy sweets.

The Greenwich Market is amazing and all, but it has a slight problem. There’s very limited seating available. So if you don’t like to eat standing, my advice is to grab some food and head for the nearby Greenwich Park. There’s ample picnic space there.

Have a picnic in Greenwich Park

London is home to some fabulous parks and gardens. In fact, one-third of London and almost half of Greater London is made of green spaces. These include the eight royal parks, each with their own unique character and all perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city.

Among them, Greenwich Park stands out for being the oldest enclosed royal park in London. Can you imagine it dates back almost six centuries ago?

The perfectly manicured lawn is a wonderful place for a picnic. And the London skyline from the viewpoint in front of General Wolfe’s statue is magnificent.

Last time I strolled through the park I serendipitously found myself in front of a band playing in the gazebo. The atmosphere was surreal and at one point everybody present started dancing on songs from the ’80s.

You’ll also find perfectly manicured flower beds, a boating lake, a deer park, a tea house, a lake, and even some ruins dating back to Roman times!

Also read: Best London travel tips. All you need to know before visiting

Find Queen Elizabeth’s oak

Strolling around Greenwich Park and munching on food from the nearby market is nice and relaxing. But what left a long-lasting impression on me was the Queen Elizabeth’s oak not far from the Royal Observatory, towards Maze Hill Street.

Granted, the oak died towards the end of the 19th century. But this spot is such a romantic piece of Tudor history and the stories surrounding it are alluring.

This is another point of interest I just stumbled upon while walking in the park. The oak is still there, fallen to the ground and covered in a thick blanket of moss. The site is marked by a commemorative plaque.

The oak had been hollow for hundreds of years. Legend has it that Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn liked to dance around it. And their daughter, Queen Elizabeth I, loved to relax in its shade.

The tree was huge – 20 feet (6 meters) in girth. On top of that, the cavity was big enough to lock up park offenders inside the tree. How crazy is that?

After it died, the oak was still held in place by ivy for well over 100 years. When it eventually fell to the ground, a new baby oak was planted right next to it by Prince Philip.

Feed the squirrels

What would London be without its adorable squirrels roaming through the parks? A charming city nevertheless, but with probably slightly fewer smiles.

I absolutely love meeting and greeting the resident grey squirrels whenever I’m in London. They are originally from America and were first introduced in the second half of the 19th century by exotic-species-loving Victorians.

The grey squirrels found in London’s parks and gardens, including Greenwich, are ridiculously cute and a reason for joy.

Just as the squirrel gardens in Japan are a tourist attraction in themselves, feeding London’s squirrels is one of the most enjoyable Greenwich activities whether you’re an animal lover yourself or travel with a young family.

So bring a bag of nuts (they love unsalted peanuts above all!). The bravest ones will actually come and grab the nuts right from your hand. Then they will quickly run to hide them in the most adorable way.

If you’ve forgotten to buy the nuts, watching the squirrels going up and down the tree trunks and playing among the branches is tons of fun as well.

Enjoy the panoramic views over London

London’s skyline is impressive, to say the least, and I never miss an opportunity to climb to a vantage point from where I can take in all the beauty of this city. The Greenwich viewpoint right next to the Royal Observatory is one of the best!

Yes, the climb up the hill might seem steep towards the end, but the views more than make up for it. From here you’ll get a bird’s eye view over the most emblematic buildings in Greenwich (including the stunningly symmetric Old Royal Naval College).

Plus you’ll be able to see The Shard, the Walkie-Talkie building, the Cheese Grater, the Gherkin, and St Paul’s dome in the distance.

In the opposite direction, the O2 Arena’s rooftop rises above the treetops, right behind the Greenwich Power Station. And across the Thames, the Canary Wharf skyscrapers are quite a sight as well.

The panoramic views from the Royal Observatory viewpoint are always great. But if you want to see something really amazing, make sure you are there just before sunset. Mother Nature tends to put on a spectacular show! Also, look for the green laser marking the Prime Meridian Line across the London sky!

Go to a concert at the O2

The O2 Arena is a fantastic multipurpose space. It was built under the former Millennium Dome, which can be easily spotted from the water as well as from the viewpoint next to the Royal Observatory.

For me personally, attending a concert at The O2 had been on my bucket list for a very long time. I finally managed to see one last year and it was an absolutely surreal experience.

I got to see Britney Spears in concert on one of the last nights of her European tour. Now, amidst rumors that she might have retired from the showbiz forever, I’m even more glad I got to see her perform on stage.

Besides the arena where the concerts are organized, the O2 also contains a bowling alley, a trampoline park, a multiplex, plus several restaurants, and pubs.

Climb the roof of The O2 arena

Are you an active traveler wondering what to do in Greenwich to keep your adrenaline levels high? A climb all the way to the top of the O2 Arena should do the trick.

Granted, the climb is a bit steep in places but once complete, it does come with bragging rights. Plus, you’ll also get a good workout along the way so you can skip the hotel gym for the day (guilt-free!).

The climb takes 90 minutes and you’ll be provided with climbing shoes, a climbing suit, and harness, so you don’t have to worry about carrying extra stuff with you the whole day.

From the rooftop, you’ll see London’s landmarks as far as 15 miles away, including several Greenwich sights, the Shard, Canary Wharf, and Big Ben.

Unwind at the pub

You simply cannot visit London without going to a pub. These fantastic public houses not only serve great beer and food, but they are a cultural experience in themselves.

As you’ll come to expect it, there’s no shortage of good pubs in London. And of course, Greenwich is no exception.

Close to the Old Royal Naval College, The Trafalgar Tavern is a grade II listed Victorian riverside pub with a long history (almost two centuries!). It was mentioned in a Charles Dickens novel, it hosted political dinners and it served as a retirement home for seamen during WWI.

Another popular place is the Meantime Brewing Company, an award-winning brewery that no beer lover will want to miss. You can visit their tasting rooms, take a brewery tour, or simply enjoy a beer at the bar. Besides craft beers, they also produce limited edition seasonal ales. Definitely one of the best places to visit in Greenwich!

Walk on the banks of the Thames

Going on a stroll along the Thames can be a nice experience as well. You can walk towards the Shard or the opposite direction towards North Greenwich. The latter is way more interesting in my opinion.

If you decide to walk all the way to The O2, you’ll suddenly find yourself surrounded by nature, including some very charming weeping willows.

The Thames Path has great views of the Canary Wharf as expected, but the pebble beaches and industrial landscape are a bit of a surprise.

On the way, you’ll spot Morden Wharf, a former sweetener refinery as well as a curious Alex Chinneck art installation depicting a giant inverted electricity pylon.

If you have time to stroll along the Thames to The O2 Arena, the 40-minute walk is an opportunity to relax and one of the more unusual things to do in Greenwich.

Explore Blackheath Village

If you follow the chestnut-tree-lined Blackheath Avenue through Greenwich Park, you’ll suddenly find yourself in Blackheath.

First, you’ll be greeted by the heath, a vast open area surrounded by expensive mansions. You’ll also spot the All Saints’ Church stone spire towering over the landscape in the distance.

This is a postcard-perfect neighborhood and one of my favorite parts of London. I lived here for a while last summer and loved walking by all the magnificent Georgian and Victorian houses while letting my imagination run wild.

Blackheath is the home to the first golf and hockey clubs in England. It’s also where the London Marathon begins. It probably won’t make it on your list of places to visit in London on its own, but since Greenwich is so close by, it’s a nice non-touristy thing to do.

Also read: For other off the beaten path attractions, see London’s hidden gems .

While most properties in Blackheath have access to a communal garden, traditional pubs like the iconic Princess of Wales are great for enjoying a drink al fresco as well. In fact, this is my favorite pub in Blackheath. I’m also yet to discover a nicer beer garden in London.

Another show stopper is Gail’s Bakery just in front of the Blackheath train station. Their specialty is sourdough bread made with decades-old starters and traditional methods.

However, they also sell plenty of handmade pastries and cakes. I encourage you to try their sea salt caramel & pecan cake as well as their blueberry & ginger scones. They are absolutely delicious!

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Greenwich One Day Itinerary: Top Things to Do in Greenwich, London

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: December 27, 2023

We’ve just been to Greenwich and as always absolutely loved it – hence this Greenwich one day itinerary! In it, you’ll find lots of inspiration for your perfect day south of the Thames – including all the top things to do in Greenwich, London.

You simply cannot go to London and not have at least one day out in Greenwich. For a start, this part of South London sets the time for the rest of the world, which is no mean(time) feat. Where else on earth can you stand with one foot in the world’s western hemisphere and one in the east?

Other Greenwich London points of interest not to miss include the famous Cutty Sark sailing ship, Queen’s House, the underwater foot tunnel, the Painted Hall, a cable car ride over the river , and of course the iconic O2 arena. 

This guide will introduce you to all the places to visit in Greenwich, London so you can plan your perfect day there. Each of our recommended Greenwich attractions is detailed in full, complete with vital information like what to see there, opening times and practical tips and information to help you make the most of every moment.

If you enjoy taking a walking tour this Greenwich highlights half-day walking tour will ensure you see and learn about all the main sights with an experienced guide.

Another great option when visiting Greenwich is to purchase the Royal Museums Greenwich Day Pass which includes the entrance fee to the Royal Observatory and Cutty Sark. Both of which feature in our Greenwich itinerary below.

Don’t take a day trip to Greenwich without reading this guide first, so you can plan the most cost and time effective one day itinerary possible. Are you ready to learn all about Greenwich? Then let’s go! But first, let’s outline where Greenwich is and how you can get there.

Where is Greenwich?

How to get to greenwich, greenwich foot tunnel – a walk beneath the thames with breathtaking views from the riverbank, queen’s house – historic royal home with a sweeping staircase, artworks & great hall, painted hall (at the old royal naval college) – a baroque interior with unparalleled 18th-century frescoes, the cutty sark – the only original 19th-century tea clipper ship on earth, prime meridian line (at the royal observatory) – where east meets west at 0° longitude.

• The O2 arena – An icon of the London skyline built to mark the millennium

Cable car – Take an IFS Cloud flight by cable car for a bird’s eye view of London

Take a spooky ghost tour of greenwich, play the ‘where time began’ game in greenwich, tour greenwich filming locations, follow a greenwich treasure hunt, go on a gastronomic greenwich food tour, why is greenwich so famous, is greenwich classed as london, how did greenwich get its name, greenwich one day itinerary: what will you do, london travel guide & itinerary planner (+ 4 bonus ebooks), greenwich one day itinerary | what to know before you go, greenwich at-a-glance.

• Location: South east London by the Thames
• Travelcard zone: 2 & 3
• Closest tube: North Greenwich
• Closest DLR (Docklands Light Railway): Cutty Sark (for Maritime Greenwich)
• Closest mainline station: Greenwich or Maze Hill

The Royal Borough of Greenwich is in south east London, and the northern edge of the area is right by the banks of the famous River Thames. 

Greenwich is well served by London Transport , and you can get there by tube, mainline train, the Docklands Light Railway (DLR), bus or even by boat. Though there is an underground station, North Greenwich, many people find it easier to travel to the borough by mainline train. There are regular trains from London Bridge (which connects to the Jubilee and Northern lines), and the trip to Greenwich from there takes under 10 minutes.

Maze Hill station is actually nearer to some of the main Greenwich London attractions, so do check before you travel if you want to walk less. For each of the things to see in Greenwich, London listed in this guide, we’ve given the nearest station so you can choose where to travel to.

Alternatively, take the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) from Bank Tube station to the Cutty Sark (for Maritime Greenwich) station which is located around 3 minutes walk from the Cutty Sark and Greenwich Foot Tunnel.

Some travellers like to arrive in Greenwich in style, by taking a boat across the Thames from central London! This is all part of the London Transport network, and the frequent boat service is operated by Thames Clippers.

There are buses into Greenwich too, but whether these are convenient really does depend on where you’re staying. For most tourists, heading to Greenwich mainline station is the easiest and quickest option, unless you want to go to the O2 arena first. 

The key thing to know is that Greenwich North station is by the O2 arena, and is a couple of miles from many of the Greenwich things to see and do. That’s why it’s worth planning your Greenwich day trip carefully!

7 of the best things to see and do in Greenwich 

• Opening times: 24 hours a day
• Closest station: Greenwich (mainline)

The Greenwich foot tunnel is perhaps one of the borough’s lesser-known attractions but is one of the best free things to do in Greenwich, London. It’s open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is wheelchair accessible. You can walk through the tunnel from the Cutty Sark to Island Gardens on the northern side of the Thames. 

Greenwich foot tunnel dates back to Victorian times, and first opened at the start of the 20th century. The rationale behind it was to provide a safe and simple way for workers to get to the docks and shipyards by the river. There are lifts at each end, or you can take the spiral staircase.

The foot tunnel is located by the Cutty Sark, and once you know to look for the round red brick building topped by a glass dome you won’t be able to miss it. Cyclists should dismount when using the tunnel.

The views from Island Gardens on the north side of the Thames are well worth taking an underwater walk for. Queen’s House, the Old Royal Naval College and the Royal Observatory can all be seen from the viewpoint. 

• Opening times: 10 am to 5 pm, 7 days a week
• Closest station: Maze Hill (mainline)

The 17th century Queen’s House is located in the grounds of the National Maritime Museum, and is slightly closer to Maze Hill station than Greenwich. This historic stately home is one of the best things to do around Greenwich, London. It was once a Royal residence, and now lies within the Royal Borough. 

Highlights of a visit to Queen’s House include the sweeping, circular Tulip Staircase and the Great Hall. The former was built by famous architect Inigo Jones, who was a Londoner. Don’t forget to capture the swirling staircase from below before you climb it – it makes for a very Insta-worthy and enviable shot!

Another spot at Queen’s House to risk straining your neck for is the ceiling of the Great Hall. It’s adorned with an intricate gold leaf fresco by London-born artist Richard Wright. The room is pretty spectacular too, being perfectly cuboid in shape and decorated in a dramatic monochrome scheme with fabulous tiled marble flooring. 

Other things to see include the Armada Portrait of Elizabeth I (by an unknown artist), works by the likes of Rembrandt, Canaletto and Gainsborough among the Woburn collection or take a guided tour to learn all about the two weddings Henry VIII had here. As well as more Royal history.

You also have a clear view across the water from the front of Queen’s House – and that’s because Queen Mary herself instructed Christopher Wren that it should be so. Check out the Royal Museums Greenwich Day Pass before you go, as it could save you some cash when visiting more than one attraction. 

• Closest station: Greenwich or Maze Hill (mainline)

The Painted Hall also quite rightly belongs on any list of top Greenwich London things to do. It’s another of those places to visit in Greenwich where you need to look up, so you can take in the magnificent ceiling fresco above your head.

What’s beneath is pretty spectacular too – this is one of the best Baroque interiors to be found anywhere on earth. The artwork by Sir James Thornhill – another Brit – can also rival anything you might find in Florence. It was completed during the early 1700s. 

The imposing pillars, the grand staircase and the gold-painted walls with intricate detailing also provide visitors with a real sense of occasion when entering the Painted Hall.

To make the most of your day there, we recommend pre-booking a ticket which includes entry to the Old Royal Naval College, a map and a guided tour.

You’ll soon discover when spending time in Britain that this is a nation that loves their tea. Which is just one of the reasons why the Cutty Sark is one of the most popular places to visit in Greenwich.

This is the last tea clipper left on earth and you can see it when you head to south east London. It was the fastest vessel anywhere when it was launched in 1869, and called at ports all over the planet when transporting tea from China to the UK. 

The Cutty Sark was built in Glasgow and the name comes from a Robert Burns poem. For some time during the early 1900s it was used for training purposes, then once rescued and restored was almost ruined by fire in 2007. 

Some clever engineering means that the Cutty Sark is now raised several metres off the ground – so you can even explore underneath. You may also get the chance to take the wheel or ring the bell. 

The indoor museum is a great place to be on a rainy day, and actors help to bring the story of the ship’s history to life. If you’re going to the Cutty Sark and the Royal Observatory, it’s worth knowing that a Royal Museums Greenwich day pass could save you money. 

You cannot plan a Greenwich day out and not see the world-famous Meridian Line – it sets the time that the entire planet lives by as well as 0° longitude. This north to south line runs through Greenwich Park at the Royal Observatory. 

It’s pretty cool to see, as locations from across the globe are marked beside it, along with their longitude and latitude references. Can you spot the place you come from – and capture it on camera?

By the time the decision was made to use Greenwich as the site for Prime Meridian, much of the naval world was already using it to map out their journeys by sea. The US had already adopted it as the basis for their national time zone too. 

As the Prime Meridian Line runs through the grounds of the Royal Observatory you’ll require a ticket to see it – and take that all-important photo. Your best bet is to book a fully refundable entrance pass in advance.

The O2 arena – An icon of the London skyline built to mark the millenniu m

• Opening times: 10 am to 11 pm, 7 days a week
• Closest station: North Greenwich (tube)

Formerly known as the Millenium Dome, the O2 arena now takes its name from a British mobile phone network. It’s not only among the best places to visit in Greenwich, London – the arena is also home to Up At The O2, where you can climb the iconic structure for panoramic views over the river and city skyline. 

Even if you don’t fancy that, there’s plenty to do at the O2 including outlet shopping, the cinema, restaurants and a bowling alley. You could also check what’s on at the O2 to see if any of the upcoming events appeal – these include comedy shows, music concerts and sporting fixtures. 

If you want to take this adventurous walk over the roof of the O2, it’s wise to book a refundable ticket ahead of time to ensure you don’t miss out. You can do so here. 

• Opening times: 7am-10pm Mon-Thu; 7am-11pm Fri; 8am-11pm Sat; 9am-10pm Sun

It might surprise you to learn that the IFS Cloud cable car forms part of the London Transport network – but that is indeed the case. With 2 cabins per minute in operation, it’s a fast, fun and affordable way to see the city from above.

The ride only takes 10 minutes, but after 7 pm daily the network slows down to give you more time to take in the view. As it takes you from Greenwich Peninsula to the Royal Docks on the northern side of the river, this is an ideal way to end your day in Greenwich. You can then join the Docklands Light Railway at Royal Victoria station. 

5 more things to do in Greenwich

If the above hasn’t provided you with enough inspiration, here are some more quick-fire suggestions regarding things to do in Greenwich village, London.

Book this fright-tastic ghost tour of Greenwich to see all the sights by night while hearing lots of London ghost stories! Venues visited include the Cutty Sark, Greenwich Park, the foot tunnel and an English inn that was formerly the ‘haunt’ of Charles Dickens . 

This immersive exploration game teaches you all about maritime history while introducing you to some key Greenwich sites. These include the National Maritime Museum, the Cutty Sark, Greenwich Park and Greenwich market. 

This Royal Borough has featured in over 40 screen productions, and you can see many of them when taking this walking tour of film locations in Greenwich . Up to 10 of you can be led by a private guide to places like the foot tunnel, Greenwich Hill and the Old Royal Naval College.

This tour is a self-guided, interactive treasure hunt around Greenwich that will allow you to see the area’s hidden secrets. It moves on as and when you want it to, and as well as solving clues and seeing sights you can stop at recommended places to eat and drink. 

This small group foodie tour of Greenwich is ideal for gourmet food fans. During the 3.5 hour tour you’ll learn about the UK capital’s culinary history and get the chance to tickle your tastebuds at Greenwich market and eateries recommended by locals.  

Suggested one day Greenwich itinerary

There are so many things to do in Greenwich village London that deciding where to go and what to see really does depend on individual interests and priorities. While you won’t be able to see everything fully in one day, you can have a fantastic day out in Greenwich to remember!

You could start by arriving at Greenwich mainline station or at the Docklands Light Railway station (transfer to the DLR (Docklands Light Railway) at Bank tube station) before proceeding to the Cutty Sark or the Painted Hall at the Old Royal Naval College by the Thames.  Don’t forget to take a detour into the Greenwich foot tunnel before you head away from the river. 

Lunch could be a picnic in Greenwich Park or a meal in one of the traditional pubs – such as the Trafalgar Tavern or the Cutty Sark, both of which are near the water. (Perhaps surprisingly, the former is nearer the ship than the latter). 

If you want to see the Queen’s House or the Prime Meridian Line, we say head there next, in the afternoon.

Should you find yourself with any free time on your hands during the day, you could always wander around the market or explore the park. You might even get the chance to spot the resident deer if you’re really lucky!

Head for the Greenwich peninsula next to see – or climb the O2, where you can grab some dinner, play bowling, shop til you drop or even catch a movie or concert. A trip on the Air Line cable car is the ideal way to end the day, depositing you north of the river from where you can take a tube back to your hotel. 

Things to do in Greenwich: FAQs

Greenwich is known first and foremost as the home of the Prime Meridian Line, which determines 0° longitude. Greenwich Meantime also originated in the Royal Borough. Various British monarchs were also born at Queen’s House. The area is also associated with maritime history and is where the Cutty Sark can be found. 

Greenwich is officially known as the Royal Borough of Greenwich – or the London Borough of Greenwich. So yes, it is indeed part of London. The area is to the south west of the city, by the southern banks of the River Thames. Once upon a time, however, it was classed as belonging to the historic county of Kent. 

The ‘Green’ part is simple and completely self-explanatory. As for ‘Wich’, the term is said to have referred to a town, harbour or trading place. So Greenwich literally translates as green place, town or harbour. It comes from the Latin term ‘Vicus’, which means a rural village or urban neighbourhood. 

If you were stuck for what to do in Greenwich village, London, hopefully, this article has given you some guidance. 

Visiting Greenwich in London can be a highlight of any trip to the British Isles, whether you love architecture, art, maritime history, food or even wildlife. 

Whatever you do and however long you stay for, we know you’ll have a fabulous time there!

• London Travel Guide – links to everything you need to know to plan your trip
• Looking for accommodation? Read our guide to where to stay in London
• First-time visitors? Read our top tips for visiting London for the first time
• How to get around London? Read our guide to using public transport in London and our guide to London’s main train stations.
• What to see and do – Complete London bucket list with guide to all the top sights and attractions & Guide to the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
• How to purchase tickets for London attractions – Guide to purchasing tickets for the lost popular London attractions & Best London bus tours reviewed
• Boat trips and cruises – Comparison guide to the best boat trips and cruises on the Thames
• Visiting on a budget? Read out budget guide to London with tips to save money when visiting
• Free things to do in London – Discover 32 free things to see and do in London
• Best day trips? Read our guide to the best day trips by train and ou r guide to the best tours from London
• Love castles? Our guide to the most popular castles to visit from London
• Beatles fan? Read our guide to the Beatles in London

Visit Greenwich

Historic attractions, beautiful parks and stunning city views - discover the best that Greenwich has to offer

Greenwich is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most historic areas of London.

It's also one of the greenest, with Greenwich Park and the River Thames providing fresh air and breathtaking city views.

There's so much to see and do , including historic ship Cutty Sark and the Royal Observatory Greenwich , the vintage shops and street food of Greenwich Market, amazing exhibitions and  planetarium shows , plus the free National Maritime Museum and Queen's House .

To make the most of your day out and save 25% on tickets,  book a Royal Museums Greenwich Day Pass and get access to both Cutty Sark  and the Royal Observatory .

Visit Royal Museums Greenwich

Discover everything you can do at Greenwich's museums and attractions.

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Cutty Sark Afternoon Tea

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A royal day out in Greenwich

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Plan your visit.

Greenwich is a quick, easy journey from central London, with multiple public transport options, walking and cycling routes and car parks.

Find out more

We recommend booking museum and attractions tickets online in advance wherever possible. This guarantees entry at a time that suits you, and you'll also receive helpful information about your visit in advance via email.

To make the most of your day out and save 25% on the cost of tickets,  book a Royal Museums Greenwich Day Pass and get access to both Cutty Sark  AND the Royal Observatory.

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Take a pit stop while you're in Greenwich at one of our cafés. We have something for everyone, whether you’re looking for healthy snack, delicious breakfast or lunch.

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• Greenwich Station
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Make the most of your day out and save 25% with a Day Pass , which gives you access to both Cutty Sark  AND the Royal Observatory.

Royal Museums Greenwich Day Pass

• Save 25% with combo ticket
• Royal Observatory
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• Explore the main deck
• Walk beneath the ship
• See how the crew lived
• Family activities and interactives
• Audio guide included

• Walk the Prime Meridian line
• See the best view in London

National Maritime Museum

• Access to all free galleries and activities
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Queen's House

• Historic house
• Internationally renowned art
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• Armada Portrait of Elizabeth I
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• The world's greatest space photography
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• Unique climbing experience
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Posted on Published: 24th January 2022  - Last updated: 13th May 2022 Categories Things to do

By: Author Julianna Barnaby

The Best Things to do in Greenwich

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Greenwich is one of London’s not so hidden treasures – with a wealth of museums, markets and sights, it’s one of the city’s must-visit destinations. Want to explore? Don’t miss this guide to the best things to do in Greenwich – from star attractions to hidden gems. 

The first time we visited Greenwich was on a school trip: we’d seen the (then new) Thames Barrier , tramped underneath the Greenwich Foot Tunnel , visited the Observatory and the National Maritime Museum. 

It was an introduction to a very different part of London, and the beginning of a lifelong appreciation for this part of town – where a Royal Park that Henry VIII used to hunt in sits just across the river from the controversial Millennium Dome (now the Greenwich O2 Arena). 

To us, it’s this blend of old and new, tradition and a willingness to push the boundaries, that’s what really sets Greenwich apart. 

Ready to explore? Let’s go.

PS: Check out our Youtube Video of the Greenwich highlights you shouldn’t miss!

Best Things to do in Greenwich 

The royal observatory & london planetarium.

One of Greenwich’s biggest attractions, visiting the home of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) is at the top of most people’s lists when they’re in the area. 

The Royal Observatory played a central role in the history of astronomy and navigation and is home to a colossal feat of Victorian engineering that is still the UK’s largest refracting telescope. Together with the Planetarium, it makes for an intriguing day out. 

Note: The observatory is closed for refurbishments right now, but you can still visit the Planetarium. 

Entry to the London Planetarium: Tickets for shows are priced individually. You can check times and book in advance here.

Queen’s House

We’re not going to lie, Queen’s House is our new-found favourite place and one of the very best free things to do in Greenwich.

The house was built in the 17th century for Queen Anne (James II’s wife) – designed by groundbreaking architect Inigo Jones, it was the first in England to be built in the Neoclassical style. 

Unfortunately, Anne died before it was completed, and instead Henrietta (Charles I’s wife) was the first queen to inhabit the royal residence.From the outside, it’s a simple yet striking piece of architecture but it’s the inside that we fell in love with.

From the heavily Instagrammed Tulip Staircase to the gorgeous tiled floors, it’s a beautiful setting.

There’s more to it than that though: Queen’s House is currently being used to showcase some of the Royal Museums’ collection of portraits (which is the second biggest in the UK after the National Portrait Gallery’s).

The rooms are filled with portraits and other artworks from floor to ceiling – striking the perfect balance between the lustrous setting and the striking artworks. 

Pieces currently on exhibition include Queen Elizabeth I’s Armada portrait and Gentileschi’s Joseph & Potiphar’s Wife. 

Don’t forget to peek out of the windows too – there are beautiful views to the Royal Naval College at the front and over Greenwich Park and to the observatory at the back.

Entry to the Queen’s House is free. 

Greenwich Park

Greenwich Park is one of London’s Royal Parks and the oldest of them all. With a history that dates back to Roman times, it was enclosed as a park in 1433. 

Henry VIII was born here and it was he who introduced the famous deer to the park (you can still spot them roaming the park today).

History aside, the park is a fabulous setting for summer picnics (been there, done that) and one of the nicest green spaces in London .  

No matter how busy it is, you can always find a nice space to claim as yours for the afternoon to laze away while nibbling on tasty tidbits. 

The Royal Observatory and London Planetarium are also based in Greenwich Park.  Even if you aren’t going to the Observatory, you should climb to their entrance for a stunning London cityscape.

The Cutty Sark

The Cutty Sark is a beauty of a boat and one of Greenwich’s most famous attractions. 

She was built in Scotland in 1869 and was the fastest ship of the time, thanks to her modern design. 

The Cutty Sark was built as a tea clipper, used to escort tea from China to Britain as quickly as possible – now she’s the only remaining tea clipper in the world.

A visit to The Cutty Sark is a chance to learn about the ship’s history: over the years, she’s been used as a wool clipper, spent a spell in Portugal and used as a training ship in Kent. 

She’s been docked on the edge of the River Thames in Greenwich since the 1950s but was closed between 2007 and 2012 for a renovation project that saw her permanently lifted three metres out of the water so visitors could see the full boat for the first time.

Entry to the Cutty Sark: Tickets for the Cutty Sark cost £15 per adult. You can buy them on the day or book in advance. 

Take a Flight on the Emirates Air Line

While it’s not in Greenwich Village itself, a trip on the Emirates Air Line is a must for any Greenwich day out. 

Over on the Greenwich Peninsula and near to the Greenwich O2 Arena, the Emirates Air Line is a cable car that shuttles between North Greenwich and Royal Docks near to the Excel Centre.

Yes, the Air Line is operated by Transport for London, and is probably a useful means of transport for many people, but it’s also the perfect way to take in London from a different perspective as you hover 90 metres above its skyline. 

It goes without saying that if you’ve got a bit of a fear of heights, you might want to give it a miss.

Entry: Use your Oyster Card, the Emirates Air Line is part of London’s public transport system.

The Old Royal Naval College

The Old Royal Naval College is a must-visit during your Greenwich day out. 

To be honest, it’s a pleasure to wander around the huge grounds, with their symmetrical layout and imposing buildings. 

That said, make sure that you don’t miss the college’s two highlights – the Chapel of St Peter & St Paul and the Painted Hall .  

The Chapel is a marvellous example of 18th-century baroque design, complete with an ornate plaster ceiling and a large altarpiece by Benjamin West. 

The Painted Hall is just that, with a huge ceiling painting by James Thornhill.

The buildings were commissioned by William III’s queen, Mary as a naval hospital. She engaged Christopher Wren, who designed the hospital’s distinctive buildings so as not to block the views of the river enjoyed by The Queen’s House nearby. 

The naval hospital became the Royal Naval College in 1869 and is now partially occupied by the University of Greenwich and Trinity College of Music.

Entry: free

The National Maritime Museum

The National Maritime Museum is one of those surprise hits you don’t think you’ll really enjoy but totally do. 

We first visited for an Ansel Adams exhibition a few years ago. Being avid photographers, there was no way that we were going to miss that exhibition and we figured that seeing as we were there, we might as well have a look at the rest of the museum.  

We were very glad of it. The National Maritime Museum charts the history of Britain’s naval heritage through an expertly curated range of exhibitions.

The museum tells so many tales, from that of the East India Company, who controlled large parts of India up until the mutiny in 1857, to the dark side of the British obsession with tea (which was bound up with the rise of the opium trade). 

There’s also a gallery dedicated to Nelson and the role he played in shaping British history. Kids (well, adults too) love the interactive features and there’s a children’s gallery and play area to keep the little ones entertained.

Entry to the National Maritime Museum is free. Special exhibitions are charged separately. 

Greenwich Foot Tunnel 

Most tunnels in London are unremarkable affairs. Not so with the Greenwich Foot Tunnel – which was one of the great feats of 19th century engineering. 

The tunnel stretches for 370 metres under the Thames, its tile-lined walls creepily echoey if you’re in there alone at night. 

Opening in 1902, the tunnel was designed by Sir Alexander Binnie and used by the hundreds of thousands of dockland workers who used to commute over to the Isle of Dogs. 

Timing your visit to London with watching a show at the O2 is a power move. 

Over the years, the biggest names in music have performed here – not only is it one of the most famous venues in the UK, but it’s home to a whole range of brilliant restaurants (we particularly love Haidilao Hot Pot).

How about a little challenge? If you feel like seeking thrills, you can actually climb up the side of the O2 and get panoramic views of the Greenwich Peninsula from the top.

Check out the O2’s upcoming events here.

NOW Gallery

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Easily one of the most underrated art galleries in London , NOW Gallery is an explosion of colour in Greenwich and is an exhibition space for all things art, fashion, photography, and design.

Previous exhibitions have included the mesmerising My Head is a Jungle by Birmingham-born Manjit Thapp, which saw visitors make their way through a 3D maze exploring culture and emotion, as well as Slices of Time by Emmanuelle Moureaux.

Unusual Things to do in Greenwich 

The line contemporary art walk.

Although it’s not entirely in Greenwich, you can check out a few artworks from The Line in Greenwich. 

But what is The Line? It’s a contemporary art walk stretching from Greenwich to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford – the first of its kind in London. 

Several pieces in the Greenwich stretch of the walk were actually created as part of the Millennium Dome project in 2000, including Anthony Gormley’s Quantum Cloud and Richard Wilson’s Slice of Reality . 

The large-scale works are framed by the living backdrop of the Thames, which adds its own movement to the overall effect. 

The Fan Museum 

Claiming to be the only museum in the world dedicated to fans and the art of fan making (TBH, we can’t see it being overrun with contenders, fans are pretty niche), The Fan Museum contains over 3,500 fans ranging from ancient times to the current day. 

Visit and you’ll see how even the most practical object can take on so many forms – some of the fans in the collection were decorated by leading artists of the day. 

It’s also a great chance to take a peek at the secret language of fans that flourished at the turn of the 19th century. Someone using their fan to hide themselves from the sunlight – unfortunately that’s fan-speak for “you’re unbearably ugly” – hate to be the bearer of bad news. 

Note: The Fan Museum is reopening on the 16th February 2022.

Greenwich Park’s Sunken Bath 

Search in Greenwich Park between the Ranger’s Lodge and the Rose Garden and you’ll find a curiosity – a sunken bath with a staircase . Think it’s odd? Wait until you hear the story behind it. 

The bath is the last remaining vestige of Montague House, whose former resident, Princess Caroline of Brunswick made a rather unfortunate marriage with her cousin George Prince of Wales (to become George IV). 

If you want to put it politely, you could say that George was something of an oddball – if you wanted to call it as it is, you’d say he was a drunk and a philanderer… in other words, not ideal husband material at all. 

The marriage was a total failure, with George spreading vicious rumours that Caroline never bathed, had stinky breath and was a complete sloth. 

They separated and Caroline went to live in Montague House, before finally going to live abroad. 

George didn’t take the news too well, responding by ripping down Montague House – now Greenwich Park. One thing the bath tells us though? George was clearly telling porkies when he said Caroline never bathed… 

Where to Eat & Drink in Greenwich

Greenwich market.

There are really two parts to Greenwich Market : the shopping part and the food stall part. 

If you like food, or shopping from quirky independent traders (or both) then there’s something for you here. 

The market dates from the 18th century and is one of the city’s prettier ones. 

Shoppers can browse through a large array of goods – from handmade leather bags to limited edition photography and hand-forged curtain poles. 

If you’re hungry, Greenwich Market’s continental food court should also not be missed – lovers of Caribbean food should definitely try the West Indian food stall there.

Meantime Brewery 

The craft beer scene in London is so expansive that it can feel like there’s a brewery on pretty much every street. That wasn’t always the case though – 20 years ago, there were only a few adventurous brewers forging the craft brewery scene and Meantime Brewery ’s founder Alaistair Hook was one of them. 

It might no longer be an independent brewery, but their taproom and brewery tours are well worth taking some time out for. The taproom, complete with lounging sofas and old-school video games like Street Fighter, is the perfect place to spend an afternoon working your way through their collection. 

Goddard’s at Greenwich

Goddard’s is a pie, mash and liquor restaurant and the place to try some traditional British grub. 

Pie houses grew in popularity in the 1700s and have been warming Londoners’ stomachs ever since with their range of hearty pies. Goddard’s is also the place to try those rare cockney treats – jellied or stewed eels.

Read Next: The Best Restaurants in Greenwich

It’s not a proper Greenwich day out without a proper pint in a pub.  There are few pubs better in Greenwich to do this than The Cutty Sark . 

The pub’s riverfront building dates back to the Georgian times and the three floors offer pretty views of the Thames and Canary Wharf. 

Sit down with a pint of one of the Young’s special brews on tap, relax and congratulate yourself on a day well done.

Design District Canteen

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The Design District Canteen is one of the hottest new places to find street food in the capital.

With one bar and six vendors at any one time, there’s plenty of food to get stuck into here. Right now the likes of Sugo’s Italian street snacks and spicy Malaysian dishes from Eat Lah are on offer. 

Though, we would be doing you a disservice if we didn’t say grab a cheese toastie from Toasted. Be quick – stalls rotate regularly.

So there we are, the perfect Greenwich day trip. Enjoy! 

Practical Tips for Exploring Greenwich, London  

• Greenwich is split into two main parts split by the River Thames – Greenwich and North Greenwich. Many of the places to visit in Greenwich listed in this guide are in Greenwich, not North Greenwich, so plan your trip accordingly. 
• Greenwich can be reached via Greenwich Railway Station, Maze Hill Railway Station, Greenwich DLR and Cutty Sark DLR. You can reach North Greenwich via North Greenwich tube station on the Jubilee Line. You can also catch a Thames Clipper river bus (you can use an Oyster Card for this). 

Map of the  Best Places to Visit in Greenwich, London

Looking for more London tips and guides? Check these out…

• The Ultimate London Bucket List
• The Best Walks in London
• Top Things to do in London
• The Hidden Secrets of The Painted Hall
• Delving into the History of Queen Caroline’s Bath

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Looking for More Greenwich Guides?

• The Greenwich Area Guide
• Where to Find the Best Food in Greenwich
• The Best Pubs in Greenwich
• Where to Stay in Greenwich: Cool Airbnbs for Your Trip

Alan Harwood

Thursday 15th of December 2016

The headline photo (always used) taken from (near) the Observatory seems to position the new world of Canary Wharf right at the heart of Greenwich. In fact, wandering around the market and the University, this world doesn't exist. Need to use the Goddard Pie & Mash photo as the headline - more representative, me thinks.

Julianna Barnaby

Thanks for your comments Alan - I think the headline picture captures the scope and symmetry of the Queen's House and Royal Navy College and I think these definitely represent the heart of Greenwich. But thank you for the suggestion.

Christine Skinner

Loved reading this as Greenwich is my favourite place. The Painted Hall is closed at present for renovation works but will be worth waiting for. You may wonder how you recognise some of the places but it's because Greenwich is used frequently for big films.

Thanks Christine - yeah the hall closed just after I wrote the piece. Am really looking forward to seeing it in its restored glory! I'm really glad you like it - Greenwich is also one of my favourite parts of London!

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The Best Things To Do For A Glorious Day Out In Greenwich – According To A Local

From exploring UNESCO-listed sites like the Cutty Sark to wandering around the foodie stalls of Greenwich Market, here’s our rundown of ten of the best things to do in Greenwich.

From historic riverside pubs overlooking the glistening skyscrapers of Canary Wharf to the so-called ‘ The Sistine Chapel of England ’, SE10 is full to the brim of things to see and do. Famous for its rich maritime history, it’s home to UNESCO-listed sites including the Cutty Sark – a restored 19th-century ship which was the fastest of its time – the magnificent National Maritime Museum, and the classical buildings of the Old Royal Naval College, among many others too.   So, whether you’re more of a culture vulture or would rather catch a gig at the iconic 02, you’re bound to find something that’ll keep you occupied in the Royal Borough of Greenwich. Here’s a roundup of ten of the best things to do in Greenwich from our resident writer Sam:

1. Take in the sunset from the leafy Greenwich Park

Officially one of the UK’s most beautiful parks , Greenwich is a former hunting park of King Henry VIII and is the oldest of the eight Royal Parks of London . Home to spacious boulevards, flower-filled gardens, wildlife-rich meadows and historic spots dating all the way back to Roman times, it’s a peaceful spot that is well worth a visit when you’re in SE10.

Famous for its panoramic views of Canary Wharf, the City and the River Thames, it’s also one of the best places in town to watch the sunset . Bring an ice cold can during the Summer months or a steaming hot cup of cocoa in the Winter and you wouldn’t want to be anywhere else in town. Alternatively, if you can manage to get yourself out of bed, then the sunrises here are also pretty damn phenomenal. Remember, the early bird catches the worm… It’s also home to the Royal Observatory – grab your tickets for that here.

📍 You’ll find Greenwich Park at SE10 8QY. 

2. Brunch it up at The Pavilion Café

Nestled inside Greenwich Park is one of the area’s most beloved spots for breakfasts , brunches, and coffee dates. Having recently undergone a stunning redesign, T he Pavillion Café has been transformed for the summer and now boasts a new open kitchen, summer BBQ pop-up area, and plenty of al-fresco seating.

Drawing inspiration from nature, the historic building has been redesigned with an eye to the building’s past, and an awareness of accessibility concerns. It’s now one of the best spots to while away the daytime hours. You might just find yourself relaxing here all day long!  And in the warmer months, they stay open even later into the evening. Check their website to find out more about their extended hours.

📍 You’ll find T he Pavilion Café at Charlton Way, London SE10 8QY.

🚇  The nearest stations are Greenwich and Maze Hill.

3. Amble around the stalls of Greenwich Market

If you’re wanting to while away the hours moseying around a market then you really could do worse than heading to this one. A jack of all trades, it offers food, fashion, arts and crafts, and jewellery, and has more than 120 stalls for you to explore.

There’s everything here from Ethiopian food to trinket-filled antique stalls , so you can really eat and shop to your heart’s content! Even though it’s open all-year-round, it’s especially magical at Christmas when you can throw in a few twinkling lights and some mulled wine . Trust us – it’s festive AF!

📍You’ll find Greenwich Market at SE10 9HZ. 

4. Enjoy a pint or two at a charming riverside pub

Nothing says ‘London’ like enjoying a pint or two in a traditional boozer , and as this author can attest, Greenwich has some real bloody gems. For River Thames views, cosy snugs and some pretty epic pie and mash – go to the Trafalgar Tavern – a Grade II-listed spot which has been serving patrons since 1837.

Other great spots include The Gipsy Moth – which overlooks the famous Cutty Sark and has a heated patio garden – and the Georgian Guildford Arms – which has a sunken garden and some pretty banging food.

5. Climb up the roof of the O2 Arena and soak up the views

The next addition to this roundup of the best things to do in Greenwich is one for the adrenaline junkies. Fancy a thrill? Well you could do worse than climbing to the top of the iconic O2 Arena . At 52 metres tall, it offers sweeping  360º views over Greenwich, the Olympic Park, Canary Wharf, the City and beyond.

Better yet, you can choose to do the climb as the sun is setting or even at night – pre- gig activity anyone?! Go on – take a walk on the wild side… For another great panoramic view of the London skyline, don’t miss the chance to soar across the Thames aboard the London Cable Car, which takes you from the Greenwich Peninsula to the Royal Docks.

This Halloween , they’re also doing a special ghost tour climb, where a mysterious storyteller will recount the bone-chilling story of the city they see below once you’re at the summit on October 30 and 31. Sounds pretty darn spooky if you ask us…

📍You’ll find Up at the O2 at SE10 0DX . 

6. Wine and dine your way through the borough

Speaking of food, SE10 has a lion’s share of great places in which to grab some grub after a day of sightseeing. If you’re looking for some good old British grub, then don’t miss paying Goddards at Greenwich a visit – it’s widely acknowledged that it serves some of the best pie and mash in the whole of London.

Other fantastic options include the fish and chips shop The Golden Chippy – widely considered the most popular fish ‘n’ chips in the area – and the famous Heaps Sausage Café. The latter is the place to go if you’re looking to fill your boots with hearty British grub.

7. Delve into the eclectic history of the Cutty Sark

You can’t head to Greenwich without paying a visit to the Cutty Sark –  a 19th-century vessel which lays claim to being one of the most famous ships in the world with towering masts, an iconic copper hull and over eleven miles worth of rigging!

It was also the fastest ship of its time, and you can explore this architectural wonder – the world’s sole surviving tea clipper – aboard a guided tour where you can also enjoy a classic British afternoon tea too. If you’re wanting to continue your historic adventure, then make your way to the National Maritime Museum, where you’ll be able to discover ‘ epic stories of exploration and endeavour that have shaped our world today ’. 

📍You’ll find the Cutty Sark at SE10 9HT and the National Maritime Museum at SE10 9NF. 

8. Admire the exquisite architecture of the Old Royal Naval College and the Painted Hall

Greenwich ain’t exactly short of beautiful buildings it has to be said, though the Painted Hall at the Old Royal Naval College is arguably the jewel in the borough’s crown. Nicknamed the ‘ Sistine Chapel of England ’,  this extraordinary hall is an artistic masterpiece which is an ode to Baroque design.

Designed in the early 18th century by  Sir James Thornhill, it features 40,000 square feet of walls and ceilings, and all these surfaces are covered in striking images depicting 200 figures including kings, queens and mythological creatures. As you wander around the rest of the Old Royal Naval College, you might be able to recognise filming locations from some famous Hollywood blockbusters, including ‘ The Dark Knight Rises ’, ‘ The King’s Speech ’ and ‘ Pirates of the Caribbean ’. You can explore it further on a guided tour – grab your tickets here .

📍You’ll find the Painted Hall and the Old Royal Naval College at SE10 9NN. 

9. Get your art fix at the regal Queen’s House

The Queen’s House in Greenwich is famous for many reasons – its former royal occupants (rumour has it that it was commissioned for Queen Anne of Denmark as an apology for King James swearing at her), its incredible art collection, and for the ghost that is believed to walk its halls – spooky! 

A visit to this lovely house of delights (which did in fact make a brief appearance in the favourite Netflix Regency romp, ‘ Bridgerton’ ), it’s pretty much guaranteed to impress with a hefty dose of royal charm. You can admire art from the likes of Rembrandt and Gainsborough – including the iconic Armada portrait of Queen Elizabeth I – or get a pic for the ‘gram on the famous Tulip Stairs.

📍You’ll find the Queen’s House at SE10 9NF. 

10. Stand on both sides of the world-famous Prime Meridian Line

Home to the UK’s largest refracting telescope, a 4.5 billion year-old asteroid and London’s only planetarium, a visit to the Royal Observatory is a must-add spot to your Greenwich bucket list. 

There are regular exhibitions here – including the ‘Astronomy Photographer of the Year’ – and as the home of GMT (or ‘Greenwich Mean Time’), it also gives you the chance to get a photograph on the world-famous Prime Meridian Line. 

📍You’ll find the Royal Observatory at SE10 8XJ. 

11. Discover a one-of-a-kind museum

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Rounding off this list of the best things to do in Greenwich is the Fan Museum. This is the world’s first museum dedicated to the preservation and display of hand fans. Accredited by the Arts Council England, it’s a small-scale, independent place located in a pair of beautifully restored, Grade II*-listed Georgian houses.

You’ll find out everything you ever needed to know (and didn’t realise you needed to know) about fans here. Learn all about the diverse history, culture and artistry of fans and fan-making. Oh darrrrrrrling! 

📍You’ll find the Fan Museum at SE10 8ER. 

So there you have it, a roundup of ten of the best things to do in Greenwich from our resident writer Sam . From the city’s only planetarium to traditional boozers, you should find more than enough to keep you busy here!

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What to Do in Greenwich: 23 Top Places + Map & One Day Itinerary

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: February 2, 2024

Visiting London and thinking of spending some time in Greenwich, but not sure where to start? This guide features the most complete selection of things to do in Greenwich . We also included a suggested one day Greenwich itinerary that will help you make the most of your visit to Greenwich. Find out!

The London borough of Greenwich – located on the banks of the River Thames – is one of the best places to visit in London . It offers something of interest to every visitor! From historic attractions and world-class museums to beautiful parks and bustling markets… There are so many things to see and do in Greenwich, and also in North Greenwich, that you might be wondering how you’ll fit it all in!

On the other hand, I wanted it to be the most complete guide to things to do in Greenwich, enabling you to choose the ones that interest you the most.

This article contains the best things to do in Greenwich , but I also included the main attractions in North Greenwich and some lesser known places that are also worth a visit if you have more time. Below, you’ll find a description of each place, together with practical advice and tips to help you make the most of your visit to Greenwich. Read on!

Good to know: The best way to get to Greenwich from central London is by taking a River Thames Cruise .

READ ALSO: Tips & Info for Visiting London

How to use this guide to the best things to do in Greenwich

As you will see, this guide is packed with the most complete list of things to see and do in Greenwich for those looking to discover Greenwich to the fullest.

However, unless you have at least a few days in the area, you won’t have time to see everything. So I have listed the main, must-see Greenwich attractions first . The top-12 places are the ones you really don’t want to miss during your visit.

Further down, you’ll find a selection of places and things to do that may be less popular or not as well-known, but still very cool or fun to do . Those are the places that you should consider visiting if you have some extra time and want to explore Greenwich a bit deeper.

At the very end of the article, you’ll find my suggestions for how to see the best of Greenwich in one day . This complete itinerary should help you make the most of your day in this fascinating part of London. Find out!

Good to know: Some of the attractions listed here form part of the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site. They have special day tickets that are valid for several attractions, or you can just get separate tickets if you only visit one or two places. Alternatively, check London Explorer Pass , which includes a visit to the Royal Observatory, Cutty Sark, and most other must-see landmarks in London.

What to see and do in Greenwich – overview:

• TOP PLACES & THINGS TO DO
• ITINERARY for 1 day in Greenwich

Here are the very best things to do in Greenwich:

1. Old Royal Naval College & The Painted Hall

The Old Royal Naval College is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and is definitely not to be missed in Greenwich. However, the main reason why I listed it as one of the first and best things to do in Greenwich, is because of the newly restored Painted Hall .

The Painted Hall is not just one of the best things to do in Greenwich; it’s one of the best places to see in London!

Painted by James Thornhill between 1707 and 1726 and recently restored, The Painted Hall is a real masterpiece. I can only compare it with the Sistine Chapel in Rome – it will take your breath away!

Since we already have a very comprehensive guide to visiting the Painted Hall and the Old Royal Naval College, I won’t repeat myself and just shortly mention the main points of interest in this article. You can find a lot more information for your visit and find out what makes the Painted Hall so special here: visiting the Painted Hall and the Old Royal Naval College . Take a look!

Other points of interest located inside the Royal Naval College include the King William Undercroft , Queen Mary Undercroft , Chapel of St Peter and St Paul , Ripley Tunnel , and Victorian Skittle Alley . All these places are free to enter and don’t require much time, so don’t miss it when visiting the Old Roal Naval College.

Practical information: The Painted Hall is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. Wheelchair accessible. You can book your ticket online in advance , or upon arrival. As already mentioned, the other parts of the Old Royal Naval College can be visited free of charge.

2. Cutty Sark

A must-see Greenwich attraction for young and old alike, the award-winning Cutty Sark exhibit gives you a taste of what life must have been life for mariners in the 19th century.

The name ‘Cutty Sark’ is 18th-century Scots for ‘short petticoat’ and was used in the famous poem Tam O’Shanter by Robert Burns… although no one seems to know why it was the name given to the ship!

Built in Glasgow in 1869, the Cutty Sark was the fastest ship of its time. It was built to bring tea back from China to England as quickly as possible and has visited almost all of the major ports in the world.

After years of service it became a training ship for British Naval Cadets, then in 1951 is was rescued from possible consignment to the scrapyard by a group of admirers known as ‘The Cutty Sark Society’. Placed in dry dock in Greenwich in 1954, it almost faced ruin when it was devastated by fire in 2007. But the subsequent refurbishment improved it more than ever. Visiting the Cutty Sark is, without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Greenwich.

The ship’s steering mechanism is just one of many original features and during your visit, you’ll get the chance to take the wheel. Surrounded by the rigging and overlooking the historic buildings of Greenwich, you get a real sense of history and can truly imagine yourself back in time!

Kids will enjoy ringing the ship’s bell, plus taking part in the many interactive activities. There is a complimentary audio guide that explains the ship’s history and features. But what brings it to life, is the excellent performances by actors dressed in period costumes and describing their lives at sea.

The entire ship sits on a glass pedestal and is raised 3 meters above ground level, so it’s now possible to explore under the hull – an awesome experience! There is an impressive figurehead collection on the lower ground deck, with a cafe at the other end. You can even book an afternoon tea at the Cutty Sark .

Much of the museum is indoors, so the Cutty Sark is still worth visiting on a rainy day. And if you can, pop back after nightfall when the ship is beautifully lit – it’s a majestic sight!

Practical information: Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm (times may be extended during the summer months). Wheelchair accessible. You can buy tickets online (which is a bit cheaper). If you are also visiting the Royal Observatory, you can get a combination ticket for both attractions .

3. Royal Observatory Greenwich

Founded in 1676 by King Charles II, the Royal Observatory is one of the must-see places in Greenwich. If you are interested in its history, fascinated by astronomy, intrigued by the concept of time-keeping, or simply want to stand astride the line dividing the Eastern and Western hemispheres, you should definitely pay a visit to the Greenwich Observatory.

Constructed on the site of the ruined Greenwich Castle, the Observatory started out as a home and place of work for the royally appointed ‘astronomical observator’ John Flamsteed. If you take a look in the garden next to Flamsteed House, you will see a well. Flamsteed would place a mattress at the bottom of this 100ft deep well, then make observations from it through a glass. Over time, more instruments were added and the building was expanded.

When visiting the Observatory, you will see the instruments used in the past, which have been remounted in their original locations. You can also see the Great Equatorial Telescope – the largest historical telescope in the UK and the 7th largest in the world. The Great Equatorial Telescope is actually free to view. You can access it via the gift shop.

Exhibits also include historic clocks and timepieces, including a unique Dolphin Sun Dial, plus the Shepherd Gate Clock, which is mounted on the wall outside the gate. This clock was the first to display Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) to the public!

But probably the main reason to come here is to learn more about Greenwich Mean Time and view the Prime Meridian Line , which has divided the Eastern and Western hemispheres since the 19th century. You can find more information about the Prime Meridian further below. 

Depending on the time of your visit, you may be able to see the red time ball being dropped on the eastern turret. It happens at 1 pm every day. Historically, this was used to signal the time to boats on the Thames.

Practical information: The Royal Observatory is open from 10 am to 5.30 pm daily (hours can be extended in summer). You can book the tickets in advance ; an audio tour is included. As mentioned before, you can also get a combination ticket for Cutty Stark and Royal Observatory , which will save you some money.

Important note: The building is at the top of quite a steep hill in Royal Greenwich Park. While this does give stunning views of the London skyline and Canary Wharf, it means it may be hard for you to access if you have mobility problems.

TIP: Greenwich Observatory gets very busy, so get there early if you can.

4. Prime Meridian Line

In 1884, Greenwich was chosen as the Prime Meridian of the World, making it the center of world time and the starting point of every day, year and millennium. Up to this point, there was no international time standard – towns would just keep their own, local time!

The Prime Meridian Line that goes through Greenwich runs from the North to the South pole and represents 0° longitude – the line from which all other longitude lines are measured. It’s regarded as one of the must-see places in Greenwich.

The fact that it splits the world into Eastern and Western hemispheres makes it a hugely popular attraction. You can take a picture – quite literally – with one foot in the east and one foot in the west! The most popular point to see the Prime Meridian Line is in the courtyard of the Royal Observatory. You will need a ticket (see above for details). 

However, you don’t necessarily have to pay to see the Meridian Line; there are places to see it for free, too. Here are a couple of other cool options where you can see the Meridian Line:

• Just outside the main gates to the Observatory, there is an alleyway. If you go down there, you will see the mark for the original longitudinal line. 
• Alternatively, you could visit the Meridian Lounge at the InterContinental Hotel in Greenwich, where it’s marked on a pillar.
• The Meridian Primary School has it marked on the playground.
• If you visit Greenwich Park and take a look at the tennis courts, you’ll notice a blue line running through them. That’s the Prime Meridian too!

5. Peter Harrison Planetarium

The Peter Harrison Planetarium at the Greenwich Royal Observatory is now London’s only planetarium. Seating 120 people, it offers a variety of enthralling laser shows that will transport you from London and off to distant galaxies!

The building is topped with a bronze truncated cone, inside which digital lasers project truly breathtaking views of the heavens. Your padded, comfortable seat reclines backwards during the shows, allowing you to fully appreciate the scenes, and the excellent sound system makes the experience feel very immersive. The live commentary from the speakers is entertaining and really adds to the experience. 

TIP: For the best view inside the Planetarium, queue early so that you can pick a seat in the middle of the row, towards the back. Afternoon shows tend to be quieter (mornings are popular with school trips).

Practical information: The Planetarium is open every day, from 10 am to 5 pm except for the first Tuesday of every month. Because it is a relatively small venue, I recommend booking ahead online . It’s not only cheaper than walking up, but it also gives you an opportunity to see in advance what shows are available.

6. Greenwich Park

With its beautiful gardens, rich history, and iconic views, Greenwich Park is another great addition to your list of things to do in Greenwich. It has something for everyone and is the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic or a quiet reflective stroll.

The park has several areas. Depending on how much time you have, you can see the ones that interest you most.

On the eastern side, you’ll see the Rose Garden , which forms the backdrop to Ranger’s House. Originally planted in the early 1960s, the garden is at its best when in flower, during June and July.

The Edwardian-style Flower Garden in the south-east of the park is also worth a visit and is a lovely spot from which to view the lake and deer park, The Wilderness .

From April until October, you can take a boat out on the lake, which is a lovely way to spend an hour on a beautiful afternoon. 

Other points of interest include General James Wolfe statue, Bandstand, and the Queen’s Orchard – an enclosed area where fruits and vegetables are grown. Next to the boating lake, you’ll find the Millenium Sundial, which tells both the time and the direction of the sun. 

TIP: For the best, panoramic views of London , walk to the top of the hill which leads to the Observatory. It’s quite a steep and challenging climb, but well worth the effort when you get to the top (and the grassy bank is great fun for the kids to roll down!).

Practical information: Greenwich Park is open daily from 6 am, but closing times vary depending on the season (usually at least 6 pm, but in summer, it’s 9-9.30 pm). There are frequent events held in the Park – more information here .

7. National Maritime Museum

I didn’t really know what to expect from the National Maritime Museum , but it’s a place I really enjoyed, and also a place I wish I had spent more time. It’s an absolute must if you are visiting Greenwich with kids, but it’s also really interesting to see for adults. Entry to the museum is free, so don’t miss it!

The main reason to visit the National Maritime Museum for me, was the famous ‘ The Battle of Trafalgar, 1805 ‘ painting by J.M.W. Turner. It’s really impressive, no doubt about that, but it’s definitely not the only highlight of this museum.

Great Britain’s vast and important maritime history is celebrated in this fascinating museum, which was originally a school for the children of seafarers. 

The museum has recently been expanded. As you browse the artifacts and read the signage, you’ll come across stories of exploration, piracy, world trade, the challenges of extreme, Polar environments and lots more. There are some truly fascinating things to see, including the actual uniform Admiral Lord Nelson was wearing when he died (you can even see the bullet hole). 

There are two galleries only for children. The ‘Ahoy Kids’ gallery is designed for babies and children up to 7 years of age and offers lots of hands-on activities. The ‘All Hands’ gallery is meant for older kids and allows them to fire a cannon, load cargo and even prepare food in a ship’s galley!

Make sure to also check out the ‘Great Map’ at the center of the museum. Fun for kids and adults alike, tablets with touch screens bring to life stories of pirates, expeditions and more as you walk across the map’s surface.

The museum is large, so if you only have one day in Greenwich, you won’t be able to see it all, but it’s definitely worth a visit, even if just for half an hour.

Practical information: Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. There is no entrance fee, although there may be a charge for special exhibitions. Wheelchair accessible. There is also a restaurant and a cafe here.

Good to know if visiting with kids: The Ahoy Kids Gallery is free on school days, but ticketed during weekends and school holidays, in an effort to keep the crowds down and make the experience as enjoyable as possible. The All Hands Kids Gallery is open the whole day during weekends, on Tuesdays and during school holidays, and from 2 pm to 5 pm on other days.

TIP: I recommend visiting the Maritime Museum before visiting the Cutty Sark – it really helps give you an idea of the ship’s place in history!

READ ALSO: Free Things to Do in London for Families

8. Queen’s House & Tulip Staircase

Famous for its architecture and its history and located just near the Royal Naval College, the 17th century Queen’s House is another must-see Greenwich landmark.

Queen’s House is nice to see, but it’s the Tulip Staircase that really makes it worth a visit. This sweeping staircase is considered one of the most beautiful spiral staircases in the world. Designed by the architect Inigo Jones, it was the first geometric, centrally unsupported staircase built in Britain. Each tread is cantilevered from the wall and supported by the stair below, creating a stunning spiral staircase bathed in natural light from above.

Another highlight of your visit to Queen’s House is the Great Hall . The Hall is a perfect cube in shape, with 40ft white walls that contrast beautifully with the black and white geometric patterns of the original marble floor. The original, painted woodwork of the hall is spectacular, just as the new, gold leaf ceiling fresco by Richard Wright.

I find that Queen’s House deserves more attention and therefore I published a more detailed guide about it. Here you can read all about the Tulip Stairs and Queen’s House . Check it out!

Visiting Queen’s House and seeing the famous spiral Tulip Stairs is definitely one of the best things to do in Greenwich. Conveniently located close to the other main Greenwich attractions mentioned above, Queen’s House doesn’t require much time to visit, and is – in my opinion – one of the best places to see in Greenwich!

Practical information: Queen’s House is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm (last admission at 4.30 pm) and entry is free. Wheelchair accessible.

9. Greenwich Market

Just a few minutes walk from the Cutty Sark and the Old Royal Naval College is Greenwich Market . Dating back to the 1700s and London’s only historic market in a World Heritage site, the Greenwich market truly offers something for everyone. In my view, it’s a must experience in Greenwich.

The vibrant, bustling market, though small in size, is crammed with stalls and niche, independent shops offering everything from art, crafts, and handmade gifts to unique fashion and jewelry. Different vendors are there on different days: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday tend to be more focussed on arts, crafts, and designers makers, whereas Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday are for antiques and collectibles.

The part I loved most was the food market, which offers some of the best street food in London. We had lunch here and also bought some cake to take with us for later. I can tell you, the choice was tough to make.

Many types of cuisine from around the world can be found here, with everything from Ethiopian vegetarian dishes and homemade Punjabi meals to healthy fast food from the Eastern Mediterranean. And, of course, this is a good place to try some traditional British food .

One big disadvantage of eating at the Greenwich Market is that there isn’t a lot of seating available at the food stalls, so you might have to stand when eating. Alternatively, you could get some food and take it with you to the park.

TIP: Try some warm, delicious Brazilian churros (available from Wednesday to Sunday). And make sure to check out the Fudge Patch, where the owners encourage you to try the amazing options on offer! 

Practical information: The market is open daily, from 10 am to 5.30 pm, including weekends and Bank Holidays. The market is covered, so you can visit in the rain as well. While most of the stalls and shops accept card payments, a few are cash-only, so be sure to have some on hand. 

TIP: If you enjoy Greenwich Market, you’ll love Camden Market even more. It’s one of the most unique and coolest markets in London. So well worth checking out if you have a few hours to spare.

10. Greenwich Foot Tunnel

Built in 1902, this feat of Victorian engineering runs 50ft below the surface of the Thames and provides a unique (and free!) way to cross the river. Greenwich Foot Tunnel is one of the lesser known Greenwich attractions, but it’s definitely worth a visit. After all, it’s not every day that you get to walk underneath the Thames!

The tunnel runs for 370m between the Cutty Sark on one side, to Island Gardens, Tower Hamlets on the other. It’s an easy walk, taking around 10 minutes or so, but is quite literally a step back in history! 

The tunnel was originally built to make it easier for London residents to get to work in the shipyards and docks on the north side of the river, no matter the weather. Despite recent refurbishment, the original Victorian features of the tunnel – and of the lifts at either end – have been preserved. You can also see an area that was repaired after being damaged during the first night of the Blitz in WWII.

You can find the entrance to the tunnel by looking for the glazed dome next to the Cutty Sark (there’s a matching one on the other side). You can either ascend and descend the wide, spiral staircases – which have around 100 steps – or use the lifts. 

Practical information: The tunnel is free to use. It’s open 24 hours a day and monitored for safety. Wheelchair accessible.

TIP: Greenwich Foot Tunnel has amazing acoustics! If you’re walking through with children, encourage a little singing and whooping – it’s a lot of fun!

11. Trafalgar Tavern

If you visit just one pub in Greenwich, make it The Trafalgar Tavern . This Greenwich pub on the south bank of the River Thames, next to the Old Royal Naval College, is Grade II listed, which means it’s a place of special interest, warranting every effort to preserve it. Definitely one of the places to see in Greenwich!

The Trafalgar Tavern opened in 1837 and was the setting for Charles Dickens’ wedding breakfast in “Our Mutual Friend”. It was also used often for political dinners by the Liberal party in Victorian times.

Serving as a home for retired seamen during World War I, it reopened as a pub in 1965 and still has many of its original features. From the charming, cobbled outside drinking area to the beautiful Thames views from the large Georgian windows, the Trafalgar Tavern is a great spot to unwind at the end of a busy day.

Practical information: The Trafalgar Tavern is open daily from 11 am to 11 pm.

At this point, you covered most of the main landmarks of Greenwich that you could probably squeeze in one day. Continue reading for our selection of many other amazing things to do in Greenwich, including the O2 Arena, cable car, and others, or jump forward to the map and our suggested one-day itinerary .

12. Ranger’s House

On the boundary of Greenwich Park and Blackheath sits Ranger’s House . This elegant Georgian villa has its own interesting history, but what makes it really worth visiting is the fabulous art collection inside.

Ranger’s House was built in 1723 for a naval captain and later became the residence for rangers of Greenwich Park. Until 1902 it remained a residence for royals and aristocrats but was then bought by London Council and used as changing rooms and a tea room. The House was later restored and was taken over by English Heritage in 1986.

Ranger’s House holds an impressive Wernher Collection, comprising of over 700 works of art, including medieval sculptures, ornate jewelry, Renaissance paintings, French tapestries, and beautiful enamels. They were amassed by Sir Julius Wernher, who made his fortune in the diamond business in the 19th century.

Practical information: There is a fee for entry to Ranger’s House and opening times vary every week. You can find more details and the current opening times here . If you are visiting with very young children, be prepared to leave your pushchair outside as none are permitted inside the house.

13. The Fan Museum

If you love history, art, or fashion and are looking for something a bit different to do in Greenwich, then you’ll probably enjoy the quirky Fan Museum . It houses a world-renowned collection of 5,000 fans, some dating back to the 11th century.

The ground floor has a permanent exhibition, which includes an introduction to the history of fans and how they are made. Exhibits on the first floor change regularly, as the whole collection cannot be displayed together due to reasons of conservation. Even if you had no previous interest in fans, you can’t fail to be impressed by the exquisite beauty of some of the exhibits, which are true works of art.

The buildings housing the collections are – in themselves – worth taking a moment to appreciate. Composed of two Grade II listed townhouses built in 1721, the museum has been authentically restored. And there are fan designs everywhere you look – even in the box hedging outside (and the toilet roll holders in the bathrooms!). 

TIP: One of the reasons to visit the Fan Museum is its very reasonably priced and delicious afternoon tea. The Orangery – which overlooks a Japanese Garden – features exquisite muraled walls, creating a unique and very beautiful dining room that’s not to be missed. Afternoon tea is available on Tuesday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday, between 12.30 – 4.30 pm, and operates walk-in service (no reservations possible).

Practical information: There is a fee to enter and an audio guide is included. Fan Museum – just a short walk from the Cutty Sark – is open Tuesday to Saturday from 11 am to 5 pm, and on Sunday from 12 pm to 5 pm.

14. St. Alfege Church

St. Alfege Church , in the center of Greenwich, is not an absolute must-do, but one of the more interesting things to see in Greenwich if you have more time.

There has been a church in that particular spot for over 1000 years, dedicated to Alfege, the Archbishop of Canterbury – who was martyred there in 1012.

The church has lots of interesting connections. King Henry VIII was baptized there, and it is the burial place of General James Wolfe (the victor at Quebec). If you’re a fan of Charles Dickens, you’ll be interested to know that St. Alfege Church is where Bella Wilfer married John Rokesmith in ‘ Our Mutual Friend ‘.

After being badly damaged in WWII, the church was beautifully restored and there are some wonderful examples of 18th-century design and craftsmanship, as well as beautiful stained glass windows.

Don’t miss the Tallis Keyboard, which you’ll find in a case in the south-west corner of the nave. It is almost certain that some of the octaves of the middle keyboard were played by the future Queen Elizabeth I, when she was growing up at Greenwich Palace.

Practical information: St Alfege Church is open daily from 11 am to 4 pm (and from noon on Sundays). It is actively used for worship and you are welcome to visit even during services. Wheelchair accessible.

15. The O2 Arena and Up at The O2

Built under the old Millenium Dome, the O2 Arena is one of the main landmarks of North Greenwich. It’s one of the biggest indoor venues in the UK and hosts a variety of events, from concerts to competitive sports. Still referred to as ‘The Dome’ by some, the arena is named after the O2 telecommunications company that sponsors it.

In addition to the arena itself, the O2 contains a cinema, bowling alley, and trampoline park, plus a variety of restaurants, pubs, and bars. It’s also home to Sky Studios , where you can use the interactive sets to read the news, be a sports’ commentator and more.

But one of the main reasons for tourists to include the O2 arena in their Greenwich itinerary is the Up at The O2 experience – climbing the roof of the arena. It’s a very unique experience in London and definitely one of the best things to do in Greenwich!

The 90-minute climb uses a fabric walkway that is suspended 2m above the surface of The O2 roof. The breathtaking views from the platform at the top allow you to see landmarks up to 15 miles away. Although it’s somewhat steep in places and certainly gives your legs a good workout, the climb itself is quite manageable and the reward of the views at the end makes it worthwhile!

Practical information: A climb suit, shoes, and a safety harness are provided but you must wear your own socks. Dress in comfortable clothes – and don’t forget your hat and gloves on cooler days. Children older than 9 are also allowed. The entrance is timed and you have to book in advance. You can book Up at The O2 tickets here .

16. IFS Cloud Cable Car

Taking the IFS Cloud Cable Car (previously known as Emirates Air Line) is a great way to get a bird’s eye view of London at a very reasonable price. 

You can travel one way from Greenwich to the Royal Docks or book a round trip ticket. The journey across takes around 10 minutes (but only 5 minutes at the peak times of 7 am to 9 am, Monday to Friday).

It’s a smooth ride with awesome views on a clear day. But if you’d like an extended experience, book a Night Flight. These include a slightly longer journey time, plus music and videos in the cabins. Watching London come alive at night from up to 90 m above is an experience not to be missed!

Practical information: The cable cars are open 7 days a week and run non-stop, so waiting times are short. It’s best to use your Oyster Card or contactless payment card because buying tickets at the terminal is more expensive. The cabins are wheelchair accessible.

TIP: If you are visiting Greenwich from central London, you can save some money by getting a 1-day boat ticket that also includes a return ticket on this cable car.

17. Quantum Cloud

Visible from the Cable Car and next to the O2 Arena, Quantum Cloud looks like a curious jumble of steel. But if you have time, this ‘jumble’ is worth a closer look, as it’s actually a sculpture by Antony Gormley.

Completed in 1999, the sculpture is a collection of tetrahedral units made from 1.5 m long sections of steel. Look carefully, and you will see the figure of its creator at the center!

18. Greenwich Vintage Market

Not to be confused with Greenwich Market (one of the ‘must see’ attractions above) is Greenwich Vintage Market , which is just around the corner!

Small, friendly, and family-run, the market has recently significantly improved from its initial start 5 years ago as a flea market. Despite its name, it doesn’t sell exclusively vintage items and now offers an eclectic range of retro, craft, handmade and vintage goods.

A few pop-up shops and food concessions have also been added, including tasty Jamaican and Thai cuisine, and there’s plenty of seating available for you to enjoy your meal.

Practical information: The market is open from Thursday to Sunday, from 9 am to 5 pm. It’s much livelier on Saturdays and Sundays than during the week. 

19. Meantime Brewing Company

Ever wondered what goes into the brewing process? Interested in seeing a brewery in action? Or simply want to sample a range of good beers? Then pay a visit to the award-winning Meantime Brewing Company in Greenwich. It offers tours, masterclasses, and tasting rooms!

Meantime Brewing Company was founded in 1999 and now produces British and European-style beers, plus a range of limited-edition seasonal ales. It also runs the Old Brewery bar and restaurant at the Old Royal Naval College, and its own pub the Greenwich Union.

A Classic tour lasts for about an hour and a half, taking you into the heart of the working brewery, and ending with a tutored tasting session (with generous samples!). The tour guides are knowledgeable and entertaining, making for a very enjoyable experience.

If you are not interested in a tour, you can simply enjoy the beer at the bar, or dine at the kitchen overlooking the brewery floor. Everything on the menu is chosen to complement the beers available. Don’t miss the wings, they’re to die for!

Practical information: Tour times and days vary – you can find for more information here .

20. NOW Gallery

If you love contemporary art and design and are looking for even more things to do in Greenwich, don’t miss the NOW Gallery on the Greenwich peninsula. It’s located in North Greenwich, between the Greenwich tube station and the O2 Arena.

This permanent, public gallery showcases the work of up and coming artists by inviting them to create their own installations to transform its fully glazed, futuristic space.

Practical information: The NOW Gallery is free to enter and open daily. More info here .

21. Up The Creek Comedy Club

Voted “one of the best places to see live comedy” by Time Out magazine, Up The Creek Comedy Club is an intimate, friendly, and fun place to end the day in Greenwich.

Located opposite the Cutty Sark, it offers live shows from Thursday to Sunday and is strictly for adults only (although it sometimes offers children’s events during the day). There’s a restaurant offering food before and after the shows, plus a disco at weekends.

Being a small, busy venue, the Club can get quite warm inside, so don’t go dressed in your winter woollies! There’s no official dress code, but football/rugby shirts and jogging bottoms are not allowed. There’s a fair bit of audience participation in some acts, so if you’re the shy, retiring type, ask to be seated away from the stage.

The breaks are short and the bar queues can be long, so it’s worth buying your drinks in the restaurant before the show.

Practical information: For opening hours, visit the Club’s website . It’s best to book online in advance to avoid disappointment, as the club is really popular.

22. Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park

The Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park is like a green oasis in the midst of the hustle and bustle of London. Opened in 2002, the Park is made up of four acres of freshwater habitat, managed by wardens. It’s home to a variety of wildlife.

The walk-in wildflower meadow in the center of the park is not just pretty – it’s also a great source of food for insects, bats, birds, and frogs, who visit often. Two bird hides allow you to get close to the variety of birds that visit the park.

It makes for a great day out for adults and children, providing natural balance in an area of rapid urban development. There’s plenty to see and learn and the knowledgeable staff are happy to answer all your questions. 

The Park is not something I’d visit if you are short on time, but it’s something nice to do in Greenwich if you have more time.

Practical information: The outer boardwalk of the park is open 24/7. The inner park has various opening hours and days, depending on the season. More information here .

23. Crazy Putt

Great fun for the whole family, Crazy Putt London Adventure Golf is in the Greenwich Peninsula Golf Range, just a short walk from North Greenwich Underground. 

It’s a kind of minigolf and has 18 holes and a variety of entertaining obstacles, all overlooked by the O2 Arena. Try visiting at night – the course is well lit and atmospheric, and the backdrop of the illuminated London skyline makes it that little bit more special!

Practical information: For opening hours and prices please see here .

Map of the best things to do in Greenwich

So, these are all the best things to do in Greenwich. In order to help you better plan your visit, I created a map, indicating all the main Greenwich attractions and landmarks mentioned in this article. Further below, you can also find our suggestions on how to see the best of Greenwich in one day.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

One Day in Greenwich – Suggested Itinerary

There is so much to see and do in Greenwich that it’s not easy to choose which attractions to visit if you only have one day. However, since most London visitors only devote one day to Greenwich, here are my recommendations for how to see the best of Greenwich in one day .

Please note that if you only have one day in Greenwich, you won’t have the time to thoroughly visit each of the museums and exhibitions mentioned below, but you should be able to see the main highlights at each place, as mentioned below. Find out!

Start your day early with a boat ride to Greenwich. Upon arrival, take a tranquil stroll in Greenwich Park . Don’t forget to take time to appreciate the magnificent view from the top of this hill – it’s one of the best in Greenwich!

From there, go straight to the Royal Observatory, which opens at 10 am. By arriving early, you’ll beat the crowds. With limited time, you may want to skip the very detailed audio tour, and simply look around the exhibits yourself. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a photo on The Prime Meridian Line. I recommend doing that as soon as you arrive, as it’s one of the most popular things to do in Greenwich!

Next, take the 10- 15-minute walk down to the Maritime Museum , which is free to visit. As mentioned above, it’s a large museum, so I suggest taking one of the guided tours to make sure that you see the best of the exhibits. Alternatively, just ask the employees where Turner’s painting is, and also pop upstairs to see the Stained Glass from the Baltic Exchange – very impressive.

After that, take a quick look inside the Queen’s House , to see the beautiful Tulip Staircase and the Great Hall . 

For lunch, I recommend heading to Greenwich Market, where you can try some amazing street food from one of the many stalls. This is a great opportunity to grab some souvenirs from the arts and craft stalls too. Alternatively, you can try afternoon tea at the Fan Museum or afternoon tea at the Cutty Sark .

After lunch, it’s time to visit the magnificent Cutty Sark . Close to the Cutty Sark is the entrance to the Greenwich Foot Tunnel . A 10-minute walk through there will take you under the Thames and across to the other side – the perfect vantage point from which to view the beautiful buildings of the Naval College.

A quick walk back and then you should just have time to visit the Royal Naval College itself, where you can admire the stunning Painted Hall . While the building closes at 5 pm, the grounds remain open until 11 pm and are a beautiful, tranquil spot to relax in the late afternoon. 

If you are still fit enough and depending on the time, you could visit The Greenwich Vintage Market , St Alfege Church , and/or Ranger’s House .

While there is a range of excellent dining options in Greenwich, I recommend having dinner at the Trafalgar Tavern . With its maritime memorabilia and fabulous views of the Thames, it’s the perfect place to unwind and reflect on a wonderful day spent enjoying the many attractions that Greenwich has to offer.

If you want to get the absolute most of your day in Greenwich and can get the tickets for the show, you could end your day watching a performance at the Up The Creek Comedy Club . Alternatively, catch a boat to North Greenwich and take the Cable Car . From here, hop back on the boat and head back to central London.

TIP: There are lots of ticket packages available including several Greenwich attractions, but if you only have one day in Greenwich, I recommend getting a combination ticket to the Royal Observatory, The Meridian Line, and the Cutty Sark. If you are coming by boat from London and are also planning to take the cable car, you should also consider the earlier mentioned Thames boat ticket that includes the cable car fare .

So, this is our complete guide to the best things to do in Greenwich, as well as a suggested one-day itinerary, and a map to help you plan your visit to Greenwich. I really hope that this post will inspire you to explore this fascinating part of London. It will be really worth it!

READ ALSO: Tips for Visiting London for the First Time & Where to Stay in London

More travel inspiration for LONDON:

• Hidden Gems of London
• Best Views & Viewpoints in London
• Suggested Itinerary for 2 Days in London
• Best Day Trips and One Day Tours from London
• London with Kids
• Camden Town

More travel inspiration for the UK:

• Yorkshire Day Trips
• Cornwall Sights & Attractions
• Best UK Cities to Visit
• Isle of Skye Itinerary
• Scotland Whisky Tour
• One Day in Glasgow
• Best Tourist Attractions in Edinburgh
• One Day in Edinburgh
• Best Things to Do in Blackpool
• What to See in Manchester
• What to See in Liverpool

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Tuesday 2nd of July 2019

This is such a comprehensive guide to Greenwich, Jurga. I never realized that there was so much to do there and was just thinking to go and see the Meridian Line. After reading this I am now planning to spend entire day in Greenwich. Do you know what's the fastest/cheapest way to get there? Thanks

Thursday 4th of July 2019

Glad to hear this inspired you to spend more time in Greenwich, Bill. I would recommend taking a boat to Greenwich - I mentioned several options in the article. We went there by metro, followed by a train ride (and we had to switch the trains too), and I thought it wasn't worth the trouble. It's not even that much more expensive to go by boat, and certainly more convenient and faster. Enjoy your trip to London!

18 Top Things to Do in Greenwich, London

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Bryan Dearsley has visited London many times, most recently on an extensive tour of England in the spring of 2022.

The banks of the eastern section of the River Thames are home to some of London's most interesting areas . It's here, on the river's south bank, that you'll find the historic London borough of Greenwich. Just six miles upstream from Tower Bridge and the Tower of London , it has long been the traditional London base of the Royal Navy .

Today, this beautiful corner of bustling London is home to the largest expanses of preserved historic architecture and parkland in all of England. In addition to the four major attractions you can explore under the Royal Museums Greenwich umbrella, including the famous Cutty Sark, you'll also want to dedicate at least a few hours to properly explore vast Greenwich Park itself.

Part of the fun of exploring this area of London is getting here. While it's easy to get to via the Underground (or "Tube," as it's known), you should certainly consider taking one of the frequent ferries and pleasure cruises that connect it to the City of London and Westminster. Alternatively, you can cross from the north bank of the Thames via the Victorian-era Greenwich Foot Tunnel or an ultra-modern scenic cable car.

However you intend on getting here, plan your visit to this vibrant area with our list of the top attractions and fun things to do in historic Greenwich, London.

See also: Where to Stay in Greenwich, London

1. Climb aboard the Majestic Cutty Sark

2. explore the old royal naval college, 3. take a tour of queen's house, 4. sail the seas in the national maritime museum, 5. wander around greenwich park, 6. where time begins: the royal observatory, 7. shop at greenwich market, 8. cross under the thames via the greenwich foot tunnel, 9. cross over the thames aboard the emirates air line experience, 10. visit the museum of london docklands, 11. london's mega project: the thames flood barrier, 12. attend a concert at the o2, 13. take the thames clipper to the tower and st. katharine docks, 14. admire the views of greenwich from canary wharf, 15. see london's highest church clock at st. anne's limehouse, 16. explore the museum of the home, 17. eltham palace, 18. whitechapel art gallery, where to stay in greenwich for sightseeing, map of things to do in greenwich, london.

The majestic Cutty Sark , the last of the 19th-century tea clippers that once sailed between Britain and China , was built in 1869 and was considered the finest and, at 17 knots in full sail, the fastest ship of its day. Laid up in Greenwich in 1956, this impressive 85-meter-long ship is now part of a superb museum that includes an interesting collection of old ships' figureheads, prints and drawings, as well as mementos of its many voyages.

A new component of this tourist attraction is an all-weather glass dome that surrounds the vessel, allowing visitors to walk underneath the ship for a fascinating barnacle's view of its magnificent hull. The ship's interior is equally interesting, with your all-access visitor's pass allowing you to see everything from the crew's quarters to its storage holds.

A new addition is the opportunity to climb high up the ship's rigging (safety gear and guidance provided). If you've got the time afterwards, consider booking the great afternoon tea experience on offer here. You can replenish your energy levels while staring up at the ship's hull.

Address: King William Walk, Greenwich Peninsula, London

Official site: www.rmg.co.uk/cutty-sark

No visit to Greenwich should omit the Old Royal Naval College. Set overlooking the Thames and the first buildings you see if arriving by boat, the College stands on ground once occupied by a palace that belonged to Edward I and later Henry VII. It was here that Henry VIII was born, married Catherine of Aragon and Anne of Cleves, and later signed the death warrant of Anne Boleyn.

A new palace was completed by Wren in 1696 for Charles II and soon after became a hospital for disabled seamen. Notable features of the Chapel are the altarpiece, titled St. Paul's Shipwreck , by Benjamin West and the round pulpit, lectern, and font, made of wood from the old dockyard at Deptford.

Another highlight is the stunning Painted Hall. Considered one of the best Baroque interiors in Britain, it took English artist James Thornhill 19 years to complete. Covering around 40,000 square feet of the hall's walls and ceilings, this important work has come to be known as "Britain's Sistine Chapel." Self-guided tours are available.

It's also where you'll find the Discover Greenwich Visitor Centre , with its exhibits showcasing over 500 years of maritime history.

Official site: www.ornc.org

A Palladian mansion designed by Inigo Jones, Queen's House is a masterpiece of Classical architecture. It's perhaps most notable for its symmetrical proportions and fine marble floors, as well as its wrought-iron balustrades and carved and painted ceilings.

Begun in 1617, the house had been commissioned by James I but wasn't completed until 1629. With Greenwich Park as its garden, Queen's House epitomizes the entire art form of royal residences and is considered the first Renaissance building in England.

Today, visitors can also enjoy the property's superb collection of fine art, as well as frequent visiting art exhibits. Excellent guided tours are also available. Those traveling in winter between November and early January will want to rent a pair of skates for use on the Queen's House Ice Rink.

Address: Romney Road, Greenwich, London

Official site: www.rmg.co.uk/queens-house

The impressive collection of the National Maritime Museum (NMM) illustrates the history of the Royal Navy from Tudor and Stuart times through to the Napoleonic Wars and up to more recent times. The largest attraction of its kind in the world, this vast museum was opened in 1937 and today attracts upwards of two million visitors a year.

Pride of place is the museum's large collection of scale models of some of history's most important vessels. The world's largest such collection, it includes early trans-Atlantic steamers to mighty ironclad warships, as well as a model of Nelson's HMS Victory in what must be the world's biggest "ship in a bottle." A number of important full-size small vessels are actually housed in the museum's galleries, including royal barges and record-breaking speedboats.

The museum's impressive art collection contains superb seascapes by William Turner , as well as portraits of famous seamen by Joshua Reynolds and Thomas Gainsborough . A large number of ship-related artworks are also on display, as are regular visiting exhibits of related works.

Of special interest to kids is the huge interactive world map used to display details of some of the most famous events in naval history. Other highlights include displays related to the Arctic convoys of WWII, Lord Nelson, and the East India Company. Guided tours and educational programs are worth looking into, too.

Official site: www.rmg.co.uk/national-maritime-museum

When you're done exploring the museums, head away from the River Thames to Greenwich Park. Spread across 183 acres, this beautifully landscaped parkland started off as a royal hunting ground before being turned over for the enjoyment of the public.

While it's a bit of a climb, the views from the top adjacent to the Statue of James Wolfe are simply spectacular and likely the best you'll experience in London. You'll see the commercial towers of The City of London and Canary Wharf in one direction, and the iconic tent-like O2 venue in the other, while in between stands the Queen's House.

For those wanting to linger awhile, grab a snack and a drink from the Pavillion Cafe and head to the picnic tables at the back. The views are every bit as good from here. If you can arrive a little later in the day, the views are especially memorable at sunset. If visiting at dusk, don't be in a hurry to leave after the public address system announces the park's closure. Instead, take your time, and take the longest route back down to the river.

At the park's south end, farthest from the river, is the Ranger's House. This lovely red brick manor house stands adjacent to the park's Rose Garden and is home to the Wernher Collection with its displays of jewelry, glassware, antique silverware, and paintings. If you can linger a little longer, there's also a pleasant café on-site.

Official site: www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/greenwich-park

The Royal Observatory was founded in 1675 by Charles II to promote safer navigation. It was originally housed in Flamsteed House , which was designed specifically for the purpose by Sir Christopher Wren. After the Royal Observatory moved to Herstmonceux near Hastings in Sussex in the 1950s, Flamsteed House has been used to showcase a collection of old astronomical instruments in what's now known as the Astronomy Centre.

On a mast topping one of the building's towers is a red time ball that drops at 1pm every day, a device originally intended to enable vessels in the river to regulate their chronometers. The zero meridian of longitude, dividing the world into eastern and western halves, runs through the Meridian Building, and is marked by a steel rod in the floor.

A huge dome dominates the Equatorial Building, which houses Britain's largest telescope and the excellent Peter Harrison Planetarium .

Address: Blackheath Ave, London

Official site: www.rmg.co.uk/royal-observatory

Greenwich Market is a vibrant arts and crafts market dating to the 1830s. While once just a produce market, it now also houses over 120 stalls selling a range of goods, including antiques, arts and crafts, collectibles, as well as food stalls. If you're feeling peckish, pop into Crosstown Donuts for a tasty treat and an espresso.

This pleasant covered market also hosts an occasional farmers market, and many cafés and restaurants can be found close by. Open seven days a week, it's a fun way to spend a little time (and money).

Address: 5B Greenwich Market, East Greenwich, London

Official site: www.greenwichmarketlondon.com

Both sides of the Thames in East London are well worth exploring. In fact, one of the best ways to do so is on foot, taking time to enjoy the many parks and green spaces you'll encounter while exploring the area's numerous excellent art galleries and museums. In fact, if walking is your thing, one of the top free things to do in London is take the historic Greenwich Foot Tunnel .

Connecting the Isle of Dogs area on the north bank of the Thames to Greenwich, this remarkable feat of engineering was built in 1902 and is a fun and fascinating way to cross (under!) the river. The Greenwich entrance to the tunnel is impossible to miss. Looking not unlike a mini-version of London's famous Albert Hall, it's located right next to the Cutty Sark .

If you have the time (and energy), you can in fact make a pleasant loop tour by heading back to the north bank of the Thames via the Woolwich Foot Tunnel located east of Greenwich.

Another way to complete your Thames crossing "loop" is aboard the Emirates Air Line Experience. This fun cable car attraction has been providing visitors with spectacular London views since it opened in 2012.

Connecting Greenwich to Royal Victoria Dock in the Docklands area, the one-kilometer journey only takes a few minutes, but offers incredible selfie and memorable photo opportunities along the way. The cable cars operate until 11am each night, and offer equally spectacular evening views of London's skyline when it's lit up after dark.

Address: Unit 1, 2, 3 & 4 Emirates Cable Car Terminal, Edmund Halley Way, London

Official site: https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/emirates-air-line/?cid=emiratesairline

Located just across the river on the northern banks of the Thames is the revitalized Docklands . Easily accessible from central London by the excellent Docklands Light Railway, this historic area was once bustling with ships traveling to and from the far-flung corners of the British Empire.

These days, it's a very different kind of trading that goes on. Today, the Docklands area has been transformed into an international place of business, finance, and sightseeing, with modern business premises, hotels, recreation areas, and housing.

The best place to learn more about the area's rich history is by paying a visit to the Museum of London Docklands. It's located in the old Georgian warehouses on the north wharf of West India Docks , the Isle of Dog's last surviving multi-story warehouses from that period.

The museum explores the story of London's river, port, and people from Roman times to the recent regeneration of the Docklands. Many of its galleries feature fun, hands-on displays targeted at children.

Address: No1 Warehouse, West India Quay, London

Official site: www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum-london-docklands

The Thames Barrier was constructed across the river near Woolwich, just a few miles downriver of Greenwich, in 1984 to prevent flooding upstream. This technical masterpiece, 569 yards wide, is the world's second largest movable flood barrier and sits atop huge piers supporting the steel gates that keep floodwaters out.

While visits to the actual barrier aren't permitted, there are good views from a riverside walk, and the visitor center has interesting displays concerning the construction and functioning of the barrier.

Official site: www.gov.uk/guidance/the-thames-barrier

Formerly known as the Millennium Dome and constructed as a celebration of the year 2000, the O2 has since evolved into one of London's top entertainment and concert venues.

Today, the massive dome-shaped structure incorporates a music club ( indigO2 ), the world's busiest concert hall (the O2 Arena ), 11 movie screens, exhibition space (the O2 bubble ), cafés and restaurants, as well as excellent views of Greenwich and both banks of the Thames.

The best views are from the superb Up at The O2 attraction, a thrilling 624-foot walkway stretching across the building's roof and with a spectacular viewing platform halfway along.

Location: Peninsula Square, London

Official site: www.theo2.co.uk

St. Katharine Docks, once considered a slum, is now one of the hippest areas of London's revitalized East End and has managed to keep much of its original character. It's easily reached by the Thames Clipper ferry service from Greenwich.

Many of the old warehouses here have been converted to dwellings. However, a number of important buildings, including the Dock Master's residence, the Dickens' Inn (1800), and the Ivory House (originally a store for ivory constructed in an Italian style) have all been carefully renovated. While a number of new buildings were also added, these were cleverly concealed behind old facades, and a newer addition, a food market, has also proven popular.

St. Katharine Docks is located handily beside Tower Bridge, the Tower of London , and Tobacco Dock , and makes a perfect place to get away from the crowds as you explore this historic riverside attraction.

Official site: www.skdocks.co.uk

The highlight of Isle of Dogs is Canary Wharf, the most ambitious development in the Docklands. Also easily accessible from Greenwich, this self-contained mini-city covers 69 acres and consists of a multitude of towers housing international financial institutions, with Canary Wharf Tower being the tallest.

The area is interesting to stroll around and contains many cafés and restaurants, as well as Island Gardens Park , a pleasant three-acre waterfront green space. The views of the Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum, along with Greenwich Park are phenomenal, and from here, you can walk the Greenwich Foot Tunnel under the Thames to Greenwich and its many attractions on the south bank of the Thames.

Official site: http://canarywharf.com/

St. Anne's Limehouse, built between 1712 and 1724, is the principal church of the Docks of London. Located midway between St. Katherine Docks and Canary Wharf, it was the creation of Nicholas Hawksmoor , a student of Christopher Wren , and was restored in the mid 1800s.

Today, it remains one of the landmark attractions in Limehouse thanks largely to its clocktower, the highest church clock in London.

Address: Commercial Rd E14, London

Official site: www.stanneslimehouse.org

The Museum of the Home presents furniture and household objects from the 17th to 20th centuries in the former poorhouses of the Ironmongers' Company. Each room is furnished to represent different English styles from middle class homes, complete with furniture, textiles, paintings, decorative arts, and other household items.

There are also period gardens and an excellent walled herb garden. The museum's Learning and Education Centre contains a library on relevant subject matters and also presents a variety of programs and workshops.

Address: Kingsland Road, London

Official site: www.museumofthehome.org.uk

Eltham Palace is one of England's most stylish 1930s country houses and is built on the site of a former 14th-century palace inhabited by Edward IV and Henry VIII. Along with its superb Art Deco interior are the extraordinary gardens around the palace, as well as a moat planted with water lilies.

Nearby Sutton House is also worth a visit and is a rare example of a Tudor red brick house. Built in 1535, its many early details are on display in rooms like the Linenfold Parlour, with its Tudor oak-paneled walls carved to mimic cloth. There's also a fun adventure playground for kids, as well as a café and shop.

Address: Court Yard, Eltham, Greenwich, London

Official site: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/eltham-palace-and-gardens/

A great selection of modern and contemporary art is on display at the Whitechapel Art Gallery. Designed by Charles Harrison Townsend and opened in 1901, it has since developed an international reputation as one of the key galleries of modern art and is famous for having premiered world-class artists such as Pablo Picasso and Jackson Pollock .

In addition to its stunning art exhibits, it also hosts many lectures and films. For a fun experience, check into one of the regular late night "after hours" gallery openings.

Address: 77-82 Whitechapel High Street, London

Official site: www.whitechapelgallery.org

We recommend these conveniently located hotels with easy access to top attractions in Greenwich, Canary Wharf, and the O2 Arena:

• InterContinental London - The O2 : This riverside luxury hotel in Canary Wharf features floor-to-ceiling windows, multiple restaurants, and a wonderful spa.
• DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel London ExCel : Featuring mid-range pricing and great water views, this hotel offers warm cookies at check-in, and a well-equipped fitness center.
• Novotel London Greenwich : This Greenwich hotel offers affordable rates, modern rooms, a hammam, and a fitness center.
• Point A Hotel, London Canary Wharf : This popular budget hotel is set in a great location with a friendly staff and compact rooms with comfy beds.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Take the Tube : The city's fantastic Underground system, or "the Tube" as it's more commonly referred to, makes exploring London's top attractions and things to do extremely easy and affordable. Easy-to-get-to-by-Tube points of interest include magnificent Buckingham Palace (nearest Tube: Westminster or Hyde Park), the historic Tower of London (nearest Tube: Tower Hill), and iconic Trafalgar Square (nearest tube: Charing Cross), to name but a few.

Fun Day Trips from London : Britain's rail network is also extremely efficient and can whisk you away to explorations of London's surrounding attractions . Popular choices include Hampton Court and Windsor Castle , fun-to-visit royal palaces on London's outskirts, and the university towns of Oxford and Cambridge , each an easy rail ride away.

UK Vacation Ideas : Few places to visit on the planet exude the same romantic charm as the Somerset town of Bath , famous for its Roman baths and exquisite Georgian architecture, and widely considered one of the country's most attractive urban vacation destinations. Other great vacation ideas include Canterbury in Kent , famous for its medieval cathedral and old city center, and attractive Stratford-upon-Avon , Shakespeare's birthplace and one of the country's best-preserved Elizabethan market towns.

More on England

THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Greenwich, London

Top things to do in greenwich.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• City of London
• Covent Garden
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Up at The O2

2. Greenwich

3. Greenwich Park

4. National Maritime Museum

5. Cutty Sark

6. Royal Observatory Greenwich

7. Greenwich Market

9. Greenwich Foot Tunnel

10. The Fan Museum

11. Peter Harrison Planetarium

12. Eighteen Sky Bar

13. The Painted Hall

14. Mamma Mia! The Party

15. The Prime Meridian Line

16. Ranger's House

17. St Alfege Church

18. Outlet Shopping at The O2

19. Virgin Money London Marathon

20. Toca Social Greenwich

21. Greenwich Theatre

23. ATP World Tour Finals

24. Discover Greenwich Visitor Centre

25. Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park

26. The Junk Shop

27. Now Gallery

28. Old Royal Naval College

29. I Am the Greatest - Muhammad Ali at The O2

30. The Greenwich Vintage Market

What travelers are saying

12 Best Things to Do in Greenwich London By a Local

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 21/03/2024

Greenwich, London, is a place where time literally begins and royal history meets maritime legacy. Nestled along the banks of the River Thames, this charming district offers a treasure trove of attractions, blending rich heritage with beautiful green spaces and cutting-edge culture. 

Greenwich isn’t often at the top of the list for first-time visitors to London as it is located east of the City of London. However, it is super easy to get to Greenwich by train or via a scenic journey on the Thames Clipper, and it contains two attractions in my London top 10: The Painted Hall and the Royal Observatory.

But Greenwich is much more than just these two amazing tourist attractions. In this guide, we’ll uncover the 11 best things to do in Greenwich London, taking you from the historic decks of the Cutty Sark to the fantastic food and shopping at Greenwich Market to a completely unique museum and much more.

🕰️ Most Popular Attractions in Greenwich: Few things are more frustrating than missing out on a key tourist attraction or waiting in a line for hours. Here are the things to book in Greenwich before you leave home: 1. Old Royal Naval College and the Painted Hall – the heart of Maritime Greenwich and the Painted Hall is my favourite 2. Greenwich Royal Observatory – don’t miss where time begins! 3. Greenwich Royal Museums Pass – if you plan on visiting both the Observatory and Cutty Sark this is the best value ticket and will allow you to skip the line.

12 Best Things to do in Greenwich London

1. visit the old royal naval college.

This 600-year-old Christoper Wren-designed landmark is the center of Greenwich’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. Originally designed as a Royal Hospital for Seamen, this stunning example of Baroque architecture now serves as a cultural landmark and a centerpiece of the Greenwich maritime complex. 

The Old Royal Naval College is situated on the banks of the Thames, just a stone’s throw from Cutty Sark and Greenwich Market. When you arrive at the entrance, head to the Visitor’s Centre and take a guided tour to uncover the rich history and hidden secrets of the buildings and their famous residents.

For me, the highlights of the tour were seeing the gates where Anne Boleyn took the boat to her wedding and later to the Tower of London, the Chapel of St Peter and St Paul, which is so pretty with its soft pastel colors, and the old bowling alley that was used by the college’s pensioner residents.

➡️ Book Your Tickets for the Old Royal Naval College

2. Marvel at The Painted Hall

Your ticket to the Old Royal Naval College includes entry and a tour of the stunning Painted Hall. If you only do one thing in Greenwich, make sure you visit this amazing site. 

Originally built as a grand ceremonial dining room, it took James Thornhill 19 years from 1707 to 1726 to paint London’s less well-known version of the Sistine Chapel (the poor guy didn’t get paid till it was finished). His artwork celebrates Britain’s naval power and royal sovereignty with an intricate array of baroque murals covering 40,000 square feet.

The ceiling features elaborate scenes depicting historical events and figures, such as the Protestant succession of English monarchs and allegorical figures representing the continents. Taking a guided tour of the Painted Hall is a must to learn all the best gossip about who is featured in the ceiling and the stories behind their depictions.

The Painted Hall also has a really nice cafe, the Undercroft, and a great gift shop. However, if you are looking for a really special experience I highly recommend taking a yoga class in the Painted Hall. On the last Friday of each month it is possible to do an everyone is welcome vinyasa yoga class at 8am in the Painted Hall. This was a magical experience that I highly recommend.

➡️ Book Your Tickets for the Painted Hall

3. Cutty Sark

The Cutty Sark in Greenwich, London, sits on the banks of the Thames and stands as a remarkable testament to the golden age of sail and maritime adventure. This iconic tea clipper, built in Scotland in 1869, was one of the fastest ships of its time, designed to carry tea from China to England at record-breaking speeds. Today, it has been preserved as a museum, allowing visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in the life of 19th-century sailors.

Visitors to the Cutty Sark can explore every part of the ship. The ship’s hull, raised above ground, provides a unique opportunity to walk underneath and admire the innovative design that made it cutting-edge over a century ago. The main deck is the perfect place for fantastic views of London, the Thames, and Greenwich. 

You can finish your visit by visiting the Cutty Sark Cafe on the lower ground deck of the ship. For a really memorable experience, why not book in for a traditional English afternoon tea, which you can enjoy while sitting underneath Cutty Sark’s iconic copper-clad hull. 

➡️ Book Your Tickets for Cutty Sark

4. Eat and Shop at Greenwich Market

Established in 1737, Greenwich Market is one of London’s oldest markets. Today this beautiful covered market is home to fantastic street food stalls, a classic pie and mash shop, fudge being made on site and some beautiful arts and crafts. 

Here are a few highlights of visiting Greenwich Market:

• Goddard’s has been serving traditional pies, mash and liquor since 1890
• The Fudge Patch makes delectable fudge in a multitude of flavours onsite daily
• There are loads of options for street food but I particularly liked Gozleme for its flatbreads and the food truck Pig Dogs and Brisket for their amazing southern-style brisket rolls
• For a great coffee and lovely pastries and cakes head to Paul Rhodes of Artfix
• There are so many fantastic arts and crafts stalls at Greenwich Market and they regularly change so I won’t nominate any specific locations but this is a fantastic place to buy unique gifts
• There are several pubs in and around Greenwich Market but I particularly like Coach and Horses and the Admiral Hardy.

Top Tip: Check out the Royal Museums Greenwich Day Pass . It includes discounted entry to Cutty Sark and the Royal Observatory and you can prebook your visits to skip the queue.

5. National Maritime Museum 

The largest museum of its kind in the world, the National Maritime Museum allows guests to discover ships and boats of all shapes and sizes. The museum has a vast collection that spans centuries of Britain’s naval history, and in addition to boats and ships, there are maps, navigational instruments, and other interesting relics. 

The museum uses interactive displays and storytelling to tell the stories of famous figures like Admiral Lord Nelson and Captain James Cook, as well as the experiences of ordinary sailors. 

The National Maritime Museum also includes Turner’s famous Battle of Trafalgar painting and the largest boat in a glass bottle I have ever seen. 

Entry to the National Maritime Museum is free.

6. The Royal Observatory Greenwich

A visit to the Royal Observatory in Greenwich is in my London top 10 things to do. Both time and longitude are measured from the Royal Observatory in Greenwich – it is literally the Prime Meridien of the world, home of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) as well as London’s only Planetarium. 

Visitors will learn about the Observatory’s history through exhibits featuring pioneering scientific instruments, including John Harrison’s revolutionary marine chronometers that solved the problem of calculating longitude at sea.

The Royal Observatory is located at the “top” of Greenwich Park (more on that to come). Here are some of the best places to see on your visit:

• the largest telescope in the United Kingdom, The Great Equatorial Telescope
• Visit the Peter Harrison Planetarium (planetarium shows are NOT included in your Royal Observatory ticket)
• See the Octagon Room, the oldest part of the Greenwich Royal Observatory and its astronomical instruments and clocks.
• Tell the time using the Shepherd Clock, the first ever to show Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
• Visit Flamsteed House, where the astronomers lived and worked

And the 2 highlights of any visit to the Royal Observatory, in my opinion, are:

• Being able to stand with one foot on each side of the Prime Meridian Line and take a photo
• The amazing views from the Observatory over the City of London. Not only are the views of London stunning, it is a great shot to see the modern buildings of the City of London against the historical architectural style of the Old Royal Naval College. This is a great place to capture the London sunrise if you’re willing to get up that early!

➡️ Book Your Tickets to the Royal Observatory

7. Take a Walk Through Greenwich Park

Greenwich Park is the most historic of all the Royal Parks in London. You’ll need to walk through the park to reach the Royal Observatory but try to take some time to appreciate this beautiful park. What once was a hunting playground for royals has become the go-to place for scenic walks and picnics under the shade of chestnut trees.

Spread across 183 acres, the park features a stunning rose garden, a pretty pond, and great views over the City of London and the Thames. You might also see deer roaming around, rumored to be descendants from King Henry VIII’s own collection.

8. See the Queen’s House and its Tulip Stairs

The Queen’s House in Greenwich is a masterpiece of 17th-century architecture and an iconic landmark of British history. Designed by the renowned architect Inigo Jones, it was commissioned by King James I’s wife, Queen Anne of Denmark. The house marked the introduction of the Italianate Palladian style to England. 

Today, this former royal residence is home to an impressive collection of fine art, including works by great British and European artists. The House’s most famous feature is the Tulip Stairs, Britain’s first geometric self-supporting spiral staircase and an Instagram favourite.

Entrance to the Queen’s House is free but  you must book a ticket. 

9. Visit the O2

The O2 Arena is one of the most popular entertainment venues in the world and popular with locals and visitors to London alike. Originally known as the Millennium Dome, this iconic structure offers  lot more than just blockbuster concerts. Some of the things on offer at the O2 include:

• a state-of-the-art cinema
• games like Crazier Golf, Shuffleboard digital darts and Beer Pong at the Boom Battle Bar
• Indoor skydiving
• Virtual world entertainment zone
• Bowling Alley
• Huge range of restaurants
• ICON outlet, which is home to great deals on 60 well-known brands
• Selfie Factory

But the best thing to do at the O2 (besides seeing an amazing concert) is to climb its famous roof. Choose to climb in the daytime, sunset, or twilight, and you’ll be rewarded with amazing views of London and an unforgettable experience. 

➡️ Book O2 Roof Climb

10. Walk Under the Thames

The Greenwich Foot Tunnel in London is a fascinating pedestrian passageway beneath the River Thames. Connecting Greenwich on the south bank with the Isle of Dogs on the north. I wouldn’t normally include a walkway in an article about things to do but this one allows you the unique experience of walking under the Thames River.

Constructed in the early 20th century, this remarkable engineering feat was designed to facilitate the daily commute of dockyard workers living on opposite sides of the river. Spanning approximately 1,215 feet, the tunnel is lined with white glazed tiles, creating a slightly eerie atmosphere as you walk between the two historic areas of London. 

The entrance to the tunnel is marked by distinctive circular domed buildings, which house the original lift shafts and spiral staircases. Approximately 4,000 people use the tunnel each day.

11. Visit the first Museum dedicated to Fans

The Fan Museum is a unique spot. It’s the first museum in the world dedicated to celebrating hand fans. It’s got the thumbs up from the Arts Council England, and it’s tucked away in two stunningly done-up Georgian houses with Grade II* listed charm.

Inside, it’s like an encyclopedia of fans. You’ll dive into the whole shebang—the rich history, the varied cultures behind them, and the crafty artistry that goes into making these breezy beauties.

12. Greenwich Vintage Market

Open Friday to Sunday, Greenwich Vintage Market is home to over 40 antiques and arts and crafts stalls. It is located in the heart of historic Greenwich on Greenwich Church Street. The market has a friendly atmosphere and an eclectic mix of goods, as well as a few food trucks.

How to Get to Greenwich 

The best way to get to Greenwich from Central London is by using the Thames Clipper catamaran . I almost included this as another one of the best things to do in Greenwich as I love getting this speedy boat along the Thames. If it’s a nice day you’ll get some fantastic views of the Tower of London, Tower Bridge and Greenwich. 

The Thames Clipper has multiple stops along the river from Putney in the West to Barking in the East. And in Greenwich it conveniently stops next to the Cutty Sark. 

Another easy way to get to Cutty Sark and Greenwich is on the DLR train line. Docklands Light Railway, or DLR as it is best known, has two stations in Greenwich: Greenwich station, where national trains also arrive; and Cutty Sark, located close to its namesake, the historic tea clipper. 

Or take a Thames Link train from London Bridge Station – the journey takes just 10 minutes.

If you’re heading to the O2, take the Jubilee line to North Greenwich station on the tube. Or take the Jubilee Line to Canary Wharf and then hop on the DLR.  

Wrapping Up on Visiting Greenwich

Greenwich is one of my favorite areas of London. It is super easy and fast to get to Greenwich but feels like a day trip. And it has so many interesting and unique attractions in a relatively small space from the Painted Hall to where time is measured at the Royal Observatory. There are some great pubs and so much delicious food at Greenwich Market. And you can cruise down the Thames to get there and back. This unique corner of London is a must visit.

This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click through on some of the links within it and end up making a purchase I may receive a small commission. This won’t affect the price you pay and helps me to keep this website going.

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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How To Spend A Day In Beautiful Greenwich, London

• Destinations
• United Kingdom

Located on the south bank of the River Thames in southeast London, Greenwich is more than a simple, albeit important, line on a map. It is filled with beautiful vistas, history, and culture all wrapped in a uniquely British style.

Travel time from central London to Greenwich, a royal borough of London, is around 30 minutes depending on your mode of transportation. There are several great options including the Tube and DLR , Uber Boat , and the IFS Cloud Cable Car .

1. The Cutty Sark

The Cutty Sark is a sleek Victorian-era tea-clipper ship that was built to sail the world for the sake of Chinese tea. Built in 1869, the ship sports 32,000 square feet of sails when completely unfurled, supported by 11 miles of rigging. It was built to be the fastest ship at sea delivering tea to the clamoring British public.

After a rough and tumble history marked with trans-ocean sailings, competition from steam ships, a mutinous crew, disaster, and military training duties, the ship is now part of the Royal Museums Greenwich. Guests can explore the sailing ship’s crew quarters, the captain’s deck, and the hold. The Cutty Sark story comes alive as you wander the decks and ponder the exhibits.

Pro Tip: If you want to engage in a little role play, you can climb the rigs of the Cutty Sark just like the original crew — except with harnesses and hard hats. There is an extra fee for this experience and it should be booked in advance.

2. National Maritime Museum

The Nation Maritime Museum , like so many London museums, is free to visit. Filled with a mix of historic exhibits and fun interactive spaces, the museum appeals to all ages. Current exhibits include the fascinating history of exploring the Antarctic, an artistic collection of our human connection to water, and other thought-provoking collections.

For families, an enormous map of the globe on the floor draws you closer; children can hop aboard a boat and sail the world. There is also a children’s gallery, The AHOY!

3. Painted Hall

The stunning Baroque interior of the Painted Hall at the Old Royal Navy College is gorgeous. The 18th-century frescoes that grace the ceiling and end walls of this former dining-hall-turned-museum tell a story of political upheaval, scientific breakthroughs, and naval achievements throughout British history of the time.

Originally built as a dining hall for the seamen pensioners who lived at the Royal Hospital, it was soon evident that the Painted Hall was a showpiece of the United Kingdom’s historic roots.

Pro Tip: Multimedia guides are available and docent-led art talks are scheduled throughout the day.

4. The Queen’s House

The Queen’s House in Greenwich is an architectural study in whimsy and symmetry. The Tulip Staircase, a self-supporting spiral staircase, is the centerpiece of the house. Traveling round and round up the 94 cantilevered steps is a dizzying proposition.

The Queen’s House was commissioned in 1619 to be a garden retreat with luxury amenities and spectacular views. It has historically been a place where art flourished. Today, it serves as an art gallery with over 450 pieces from unknown artists.

5. Chapel Of Saint Peter And Saint Paul

The unassuming exterior of the Chapel of Saint Peter and Saint Paul does not prepare you for the grandness of this small house of worship. Built for the retired seamen, the beautiful altar painting by Benjamin West is captivating.

The Chapel’s subtle naval references are so perfectly intertwined with the religious neo-classic décor, they are almost unnoticeable.

6. Trafalgar Tavern

When you are ready to take a tourist break and enjoy some classic British pub grub, Trafalgar Tavern is the perfect spot. Lunch at a picnic table along the Thames is the perfect spot to rest before you begin the uphill hike to the Royal Observatory.

If you want a nibble, try the fried halloumi with tamarind, spring onions, and chili or the Greenwich whitebait (small fish fry) with caper mayo and lemon. Heartier plates include the British classic of bangers and mash or traditional fish and chips. Of course, you will want to wash everything down with a fresh-drawn pint.

Pro Tip: If you are sitting outside, and you should, go in to place your order. Remember to check your table number; they will deliver your food and beverage when they are ready.

7. Greenwich Park

At the center of the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site is the beautiful Greenwich Park . Expansive lawns, tree-lined walkways, and flower gardens are meticulously maintained for your outdoor enjoyment. A beautiful spot for a picnic or to relax with a great book, Greenwich Park is an outdoor oasis for busy Londoners.

As you walk up the pathway to the Royal Observatory, the panoramic views of London feature lush lawns flowing down to the Old Royal Naval College, on to the Thames, and ending with a skyline backdrop of the city skyscrapers.

Pro Tip: The steep vertical rise up the paved path is significant considering the Royal Observatory is only 46 meters (150 feet) above mean sea level, according to the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization.

8. Prime Meridian Line

Who doesn’t want to stand on the Prime Meridian Line — it is the center of world time. A tourist’s picture must-have when visiting Greenwich, the line divides the Eastern and Western Hemispheres at 0 degrees longitude. It is one of those cool spots that you think should feel different, but it’s just like every other spot.

Once you have had your photo op, there is a small park surrounded by big views of London.

9. Greenwich London Royal Observatory

Once you have made it to the top of Greenwich Park, you can wander through the Royal Observatory museum. Tour the Sir Christopher Wren-designed Octagon Room built to showcase an uninterrupted view of the nighttime sky. Enjoy a show at the Peter Harrison Planetarium and watch the sky evolve and change. Take a live or online class to discover the intricacies of astronomy.

10. Greenwich Market

A stroll through Greenwich Market is the perfect way to end your day exploring this charming London borough. Shop, dine, and explore your way through the stalls and shops in this historic marketplace.

The most delicious fudge shop in London is The Fudge Patch . Their vegan fudge is freshly handcrafted by fudge artisans while you watch. Rich and flavorful, you will want all the yummy flavors.

Your slab fudge purchase can include flavors like strawberries and cream, salted caramel, cherry bakewell, chocolate orange, and other delectable flavor combinations. The Fudge Patch is a sweet-treat gem of confectionery delight.

11. The Coach & Horses

After your shopping excursion is over, grab a seat at The Coach & Horses for a chef-centric daily special meal, a pint of a great local brew, or a quick nosh before heading back to the city center. A seat in the outdoor patio is the perfect spot to watch the comings and goings at Greenwich Market.

Spend A Day In Greenwich

There is a lot to see and do in Greenwich and you don’t want to wander aimlessly — you might miss some of the really good stuff. Hiring a local guide that can curate a tour focusing on your specific interests is the best way to enjoy a new-to-you location. Destination Gourmet’s tours take you to interesting spots in and around London, where you will see all the highlights punctuated with culinary delights and historic details.

Spend a day in Greenwich on your next visit to London. You will love the adventure.

Related Reading:

• 8 Fantastic Things To Do In London On A Budget
• London’s Oldest Business Is A Delicious Destination Not To Miss
• 7 Delicious Restaurants To Try Near London’s Elizabeth Line

Sandi loves writing about culture, cuisine, adult beverages, cruising, golf, skiing, road trips, hiking, New England, and photography. Traveling solo, with hubby Chris, or the entire Barrett clan there is always a story waiting to be told.

Greenwich London Day Out

Getting there.

You can get to Greenwich easily by train or bus, or by taking a boat down the Thames. For the best experience, go by river, weather permitting, and return by rail. Not only will you and your children enjoy the boat ride, but you'll get to see the London Eye , St Paul's Cathedral , Shakespeare's Globe, The Tower of London , and Tower Bridge . You'll be traveling the Thames—the historic water highway from London—as royalty ​have traveled to Greenwich for hundreds of years. Also, arriving by river puts you in the perfect position to begin exploring Greenwich.

By water, the trip is about 30-60 minutes each way. You can get onboard sightseeing cruises near the London Eye at Waterloo, Westminster, and Tower piers.

London River Services (LRS) London River Services (LRS) provides safe and reliable river transportation for both commuter and leisure journeys. Check the Transport for London website for river maps and the latest timetable.

For City Cruises, boats basically leave every 40 minutes depending on the location. Tickets are available online.

If you arrive by DLR (use Cutty Sark station), then turn left on the Greenwich High Road, proceed to the Cutty Sark, and then pick up the tour as described on the next page.

If you would prefer a guided tour to get the most of your time in Greenwich do contact Greenwich Royal Tours in advance. They have regular half day and full day tours with more options being added all the time.

If the climb up the hill in Greenwich Park to the Royal Observatory is not enough for you and want a really exciting climb why not consider climbing over The O2 at Up at The O2 ? And if you head over to The O2, why not try the London cable car/Emirates Air Line too?

When you get off the boat at Greenwich, you'll find the Cutty Sark immediately in front of you. This handsome vessel is a tea clipper and one of the most famous ships in the world. She was built to bring tea quickly from China.

The odd name comes from a short story by Robert Burns. It tells of a farmer named Tam O'Shanter who saw a beautiful witch dancing in a short petticoat, which was called a 'cutty sark' in ancient regional Scottish. Overcome by the dance, he called out "Weel done 'cutty sark'!" and was then chased by the witch, who was furious to have been spied. She was hot on his heels until he crossed the River Doon and was saved—witches cannot cross running water.

The Cutty Sark reopened on 26 April 2012 after a six-year conversation project that cost £50 million. You can now explore below the ship in a new glass-roofed visitor center and even have a cup of Twinings Cutty Sark-inspired tea in the cafe. Visitors can also go to the hold and learn about the other cargoes she carried (it wasn't all tea), discover how the sailors lived and worked as well as go on the main deck and pretend to steer—it's a great photo opportunity.

From here you can see the entrance to the Greenwich Foot Tunnel but we'd recommend going in​ Discover Greenwich which includes the Tourist Information Centre and an exhibition about Greenwich and is part of the Old Royal Navy College.

Old Royal Naval College

The Old Royal Naval College was originally established by Royal Charter in 1694 as a Royal Naval Hospital for the relief and support of seamen and their dependents.

Sir Christopher Wren planned the site and, during the early 1700s, a number of different architects completed his design. In the 1800s, the number of Pensioners dropped steadily and the Hospital was closed in 1869.

But soon after, the Royal Naval College moved in. Here, a short distance from the sea, were trained ship captains who commanded the fleets that projected British military and economic might throughout the world.

When the Royal Navy moved out to Shrivenham the site was given over to the Greenwich Foundation to conserve and open to the public. Whilst the University of Greenwich and Trinity Laban rent some buildings, the whole Old Royal Naval College is a publicly accessible heritage attraction, not a university campus. Among the highlights of a visit to the ORNC, which is open to the public free of charge, are the Discover Greenwich Visitor Centre, chapel, and the Painted Hall, one of Europe's finest painted interiors.

Much earlier on this site, Henry VIII is reputed to have had his favorite palace.

You can find out more about the Old Royal Naval College and the rest of Greenwich at Discover Greenwich, the Visitor Centre for the area.

Cross over the main road (Romney Road) to reach the Queen's House, National Maritime Museum, Greenwich Park and Royal Observatory.

Queen's House Greenwich

The Queen's House was designed by the architect, Inigo Jones, for Anne of Denmark, wife of James I. Construction began in 1616.

Queen's House is now the art gallery for the National Maritime Museum and includes works by Canaletto and Van der Veldes.

In the wings of the Queen's House is located a collection of nautical artifacts, displays and historical exhibitions. These include:

• Astronomical and Navigational Devices ranging from astrolabes and armillary spheres to quadrants, nocturnals, and sundials.
• Maps and charts dating from the medieval period to the present day. Some were used by well-known naval officers to plan/record events that became history.
• Maritime-related coins and medals from around the world.
• Carved figureheads and other seafaring objects from the late 17th century until the early 20th century.

Admission is free.

The National Maritime Museum is next to the Queen's House.

National Maritime Museum

The National Maritime Museum is also free to visit and covers 500 years of Britain at sea. This is the world's largest maritime museum and it connects Britain's maritime past with our lives today.

You can see the uniform Nelson was wearing when he was fatally shot at the Battle of Trafalgar, fire a cannon and steer a ship into port. The children's ​ All Hands gallery is a fantastic way to learn through play.

Behind the Queen's House and the National Maritime Museum is Greenwich Park.

Greenwich Park

Although the grounds have been used by nobility since the 1400s as hunting grounds and a source of freshwater for Thames-side mansions, the layout of the park primarily reflects Charles II's desire to have French-style formal gardens to set off the new palace that he planned (but did not build) on the waterfront. In the early 1660s, Charles II hired Le Notre, gardener to Louis XIV of France, to design the plans for the park. Although these plans were not fully realized, the outlines of the design can be seen in the rows of trees that line many of the park's paths.

The Boating Pond is open in the summer months and offers pedal and rowing boats. There is also a 9ft sundial next to the pond that children can walk on.

The Children's Playground started around 1900 as a large sandpit to create 'Seaside in Greenwich Park' as a safe place for local youngsters to play. It has since been modernized and offers climbing frames with scrambling tubes, a Wendy house and slide, and more.

If you are here in September or October, do look for conkers as there is a traditional children's game you can play with these seeds.

Greenwich Royal Observatory is on top of the hill. The pathway up can be a little steep, especially if you are pushing a stroller. If you'd prefer a longer but easier way, follow the signs for the accessible path, which winds around the back of the hill up a more gentle slope.

If the climb up the hill in Greenwich Park to the Royal Observatory is not enough for you and want a really exciting climb why not consider climbing over The O2 at Up at The O2?

Greenwich Royal Observatory and the Prime Meridian

The Greenwich Royal Observatory was established by King Charles II in 1675. The initial building, Flamsteed House, was designed by Sir Christopher Wren.

In 1884 most delegates to an international conference agreed that Greenwich should be adopted as the Prime Meridian of the world, Longitude Zero (0° 0' 0"). This line is marked by a metal strip running through the courtyard. By standing over this line, you can be in both the eastern and western hemispheres at the same time.

Every place on the Earth is measured in terms of its angle east or west from this line (longitude), just as the Equator divides the northern and southern hemispheres (latitude). Latitude and Longitude are used on ships to determine where they are.

Latitude was determined by measuring the height of the sun above the horizon. Longitude was determined by keeping to clocks, one on local time and the other on a standard time (now GMT) and comparing the difference. Given that an error of only a few minutes could result in shipwreck, the creation of an accurate shipboard clock was a matter of vital research for many years.

The Greenwich Observatory is also sometimes described as being at the center of world space and time and was the first place to observe the new millennium. Greenwich was chosen as the site for the UK's Millennium Exhibition, comprising mainly of the Millennium Dome. The building stood empty for years after but is now The O2 entertainment venue.

GMT is mean solar time, with midday defined as the time at which the sun crosses the Greenwich Meridian, 0 degrees longitude.

Watch the Ball Drop

The red ball on top of Flamsteed house drops at 1 p.m. GMT each day (under midday is defined as the time at which the sun crosses the Prime Meridian). Countdowns to the drop are always good with children.

Other Buildings at the Royal Observatory

The Altazimuth Pavilion and the South Building were built between 1772 and 1897 and now house a collection of historical astronomical instruments and a planetarium. The Peter Harrison Planetarium opened in May 2007 and features Europe's first digital planetarium projector.

Before leaving the observatory grounds, look to the East to see Vanbrugh Castle. This castle, with its fairy-tale towers and turrets, lies just outside the park on Maze Hill. It was designed in 1719 by architect and playwright Sir John Vanbrugh (1664-1726) as his home.

If the climb up the hill in Greenwich Park to the Royal Observatory is not enough for you and want a really exciting climb why not consider climbing over The O2 at Up at The O2 ?

Greenwich Market

There has long been a strong royal connection to Greenwich, going back to the old Royal Palace of Placentia, which was the monarch's main palace from about 1450 to the middle of the 15th century to about 1700. Greenwich is the birthplace of Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, and Mary I.

There is also a strong shopping connection, with a Royal Charter Market being originally assigned to the Commissioners of Greenwich Hospital in 1700 for 1,000 years.

In the main shopping area around the high road, there are lots of places to eat — many good for children — and lots of cute little shops — most not so good for children.

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13 unique things to do in Greenwich, London.

There are so many fun and unique things to do in Greenwich which is probably why it’s my favourite part of the city of London

If you don’t want to stay in the hustle and bustle of central London but still want a great place to spend a few days in the city then I really recommend staying in Greenwich.  

It’s one of my favourite places outside of the centre and as well as being pretty, safe and accessible there’s actually loads of things to see in Greenwich, London too!

A note from the writer: Hey! I’m Kirsty and I’m a London travel expert – after being so many times over the years I keep returning! Shout (or comment below) if you have any questions about your next trip and I’ll get back to you ASAP.

This article probably contains affiliate links. This means that if you buy or book after clicking, I may get a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

Greenwich is an English UNESCO World Heritage site for all of the maritime history that’s there, one of only 3 World Heritage sites in London.  So that means boats, of course, but also the observatory which was literally the centre of the world, where time got measured from and so many scientific discoveries related to time, maps and astronomy were made.

So, without further ado, let’s take a look at what Greenwich attractions there are if you decide to take a trip out of London centre!

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Best things to do in Greenwich, London

Before the check out the places to see in Greenwich it’s worth checking where it is in relation to the centre of London. If you’re worried about how far it is, please don’t be. It only takes at most an hour on public transport. Quite doable for a day trip or even half a day from the centre of London and if you go by river boat it’s quite a unique way to get there too! Check at the end of the page for more tips for getting to Greenwich.

Tip for budget conscious travelers: If you’re planning to do more than one of the paid Greenwich attractions then it might be beneficial for you to get an attraction pass. The London Pass covers attractions throughout the city and the Greenwich Museums Pass will cover the Observatory and the Cutty Sark

Learn about time at the Royal Observatory

Probably the biggest draw to people wanting to come to Greenwich is to see the Royal Observatory.  This is home to the Prime Meridian line, historical scientific artefacts and even a planetarium.

The observatory was commissioned in the time of King Charles II in a time of intense work in the world of science and also with exploration.  The more the ‘world’ explored the more they needed to be accurate in order to not get lost at sea.  

Many of the nations who were exploration giants offered huge rewards to scientists to find a solution to the problem of mapping longitude.  If they could get a solution it would mean so much more accuracy while sailing, less shipwrecks and overall more efficiency.  

Exploration and empire building was big business!

While visiting the observatory you can:

• learn about the Royal Astronomers – men who were appointed to advise the King and Queen on astronomical matters.  They also charted the night sky and helped with numerous scientific discoveries.
• See the Harrison clocks – clocks invented to solve the problem of longitude and which were successful!
• learn about Sir Christopher Wren – an astronomer but also a famous builder at the time.  He designed what was to become Flamsteed House, where the Royal Astronomers would live.
• See the Prime Meridian – you can learn about the history of how Greenwich was chosen to be the Prime Meridian and how it became the centre of time.
• See the ball drop – a way in which the maritime captains could set their watches in the late 1800s.  It drops at 1pm each day.
• Visit the Planetarium and watch a show.

The Observatory is open from 10am – 5pm each day.  Tickets can be purchased as part of a bundle with the Cutty Sark attraction (see below).  Planetarium shows cost extra.

Get Tickets Here:

Royal Observatory entrance

Greenwich Museum Pass – Royal Observatory and Cutty Sark entrance 

London Sightseeing Pass (Royal Observatory is included in this)

Explore the Astronomy Centre

I’ve kept this one separate for the above attraction because although they are in the same area and it’s considered part of the Royal Observatory, you can actually visit just the Astronomy Centre for free.  

It’s essentially a museum and galleries about astronomy and space.  If you’re on a budget then it’s definitely worth taking a look at!  We went a number of years ago now with our kids and really enjoyed it.

It’s not a substitute by any means but since you’re up by the Observatory anyway, you’ll be able to see the meridian line through the entrance gates which I think can satisfy some without needing to do more.

You can also, for free, see the Great Equatorial Telescope which is one of the biggest telescopes in the world.  The Observatory runs some skywatching events so do keep a look out for those if you’re interested in the night sky!

Both the Astronomy Centre and the telescope are open to visitors daily from 10am – 5.30pm.

Relax in Greenwich Park

If you want to have some quiet time then a walk in the beautiful Greenwich Park is a must.  It’s a huge open space, often with a lot of dog owners and families enjoying it, and it’s perfect for picnics on a dry day.

You’ll wander through the park if you’re on your way up to the Observatory and you can get some wonderful views over Canary Wharf and the skyline of the business district there.  Even on a bit of an overcast day on the last day of the year, like you can see in the photo above, it was quite spectacular!

The history of the park goes way back and it was used as a hunting ground for Henry VIII when Greenwich Palace was next to it.

If you love history then you might be interested in checking out old castles near London

Discover Art at the Old Royal Naval College

The Old Royal Naval College are some of the most striking buildings in Greenwich and lie on the banks of the Thames.  The buildings weren’t always a naval college though, that was just from 1873.  Prior to that and the reason it was built was for it to be a hospital for elderly and injured seamen.

It was built in 1694 and designed by Sir Christoper Wren (remember from above – he designed the Flamsteed House of the Royal Observatory) and it was to be for elderly and injured seamen who had served in the Royal Navy.

The history of the site doesn’t stop there and actually it’s built on the foundations of Greenwich Palace where Henry VIII was born!

The college is now open to visitors and there’s a wealth of art history, architecture and stories to be told inside.  Don’t miss the amazing painted hall which they dub as the UK’s Sistine Chapel – if you’re at all interested in art history this is for you – a gorgeous and intricate baroque painting on the ceiling of one of the domed buildings.

As well as the college there is a Visitor’s centre, which is free, which can help to get a good handle on what is around Greenwich and some of the history and so I definitely recommend.  You can also visit the grounds of the college for free.

Old Royal Naval College Ticket site

London Sightseeing Pass (Royal Naval College is included in this)

Wander around the Queen’s House

Queen’s House was originally built for King James’s wife, Anne of Denmark in the early 1600s.  Unfortunately she didn’t get to see the whole thing finished as she died.   Work actually had to stop until the site was next given to Charles I’s wife, Henrietta Maria in 1629.  

The building was unique at the time as the first classical building to be constructed in that style.  It didn’t stay long as a place of court though as the English Civil war happened and it was removed of many of the original features.

Nowadays Queen’s House is the home to many piece of art.  It’s free to visit and highly recommended to those interested in art history or architecture.

If you’re a fan of the Royal family then you might like my guide to London’s Royal Palaces

Visit the National Maritime Museum

Right next door to Queen’s House is the National Maritime Museum.  

We really enjoyed our time here a few years ago now and it’s a great place to come to with kids.  I will say that there is A LOT to see here though and definitely worth a couple of visits if you can manage it – it’s one of many free museums in London so at least it won’t break the budget!

With artefacts and exhibitions about every kind of exploration and seafaring this is a really interesting place to visit.  

You don’t need to be particularly interested in boats to enjoy it – you’ll still learn lots!

Climb aboard The Cutty Sark

The Cutty Sark was the fastest sailing boat of its time and is known as an extreme clipper.  She’s the only surviving example of one left in the world today.  She was used to transport cargo to and from the Far East and as well as tea some of her cargo even included wool from as far as Australia.

She’s impressive to see even from the outside but if you do take time to visit inside you’ll learn all about what made the ship one of the fastest at the time and what life was like for the sailors who sailed on her.  

I haven’t managed to see inside myself but I’m planning to visit soon so hopefully I can report back!

Get tickets here:

Entrance to Cutty Sark

Royal Observatory and Cutty Sark 

London Pass (Cutty Sark is included in this)

Learn about fan making at the Fan Museum

Here’s one for you if you like to enjoy quirky museums on your travels. The fan museum explores the history of making fans and has a number of fans on display for you to wonder at.

Please note that they no longer do afternoon tea at the Orangery within the Fan Museum – I’m hoping that it might come back.

It’s located in the centre of Greenwich not far from Greenwich Park.

It’s open Wednesdays to Saturdays from 11 am to 5pm and is quite inexpensive to visit at £5 per adult.

Walk along the Greenwich Foot Tunnel

The Greenwich Foot Tunnel runs from just next to the Cutty Sark and takes you all the way under the Thames to the other side which is called the Isle of Dogs.  

It’s a great way to get to another part of London and you can get some fantastic views of Greenwich from the other side of the river.  If it’s a nice day then I recommend taking a picnic as there’s a lovely small park by the banks where you can take in that view.

The foot tunnel was actually opened in 1902 and is a nice example of some Victorian architecture.  It was damaged at the North end in WW2 and you can see when walking along which parts were replaced and fixed.

There are spiral staircases that lead down to the tunnel and lifts as well to help with accessibility.  You cannot ride a bike down there – they must be carried.  

The tunnel is open 24 hours a day and free to visit.

Shop in Greenwich Market

If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed with all the history on offer in Greenwich and need a little retail therapy then a trip to Greenwich Market should definitely be on your list.  (Although, shhh – it’s also a historic market!  It dates back to 1737!)

The market has numerous stalls from clothes to souvenirs to antiques and also has a number of street food options too.   We had some absolutely divine vegan pizza there – I wish I remembered the name of the stall!

It’s open every day from 10am – 5.30pm and is situated in the centre of Greenwich town.  For more information on what stalls and shops are there see their website here .

Take a River Thames cruise

Greenwich is one of the main stops on many of the sightseeing cruise boats and also the River Bus (which is part of Transport for London and can be ridden with an Oyster card – see here for more info) so it makes sense to include a Thames Cruise on your itinerary if you want to go to Greenwich!

They are a really great alternative to the Hop on Hop off bus tours and I personally really love getting the boat if I can.  

Many of the tours only go as far as Greenwich but do take in almost all the sites that you’ll want to see.  Some also go as far as the Thames barrier.

While the river bus can be a great way to get to central London do be aware, especially at busy times, that there can be a bit of a queue and you may have to wait.  We almost missed our coach home one time due to not knowing how busy it can get – be aware if you have to be somewhere on time!

Thames Hop on Hop off sightseeing cruise

Thames Barrier cruise

London Pass (Thames Cruise is included in this)

Take a ride on the Emirates Air Line

Located on the North of the Greenwich Peninsula, a little walk away from the other historic museums and attractions in a unique way to cross the Thames and get a good view of the city.

The Emirates Air Line is a cable car that crosses from Greenwich, near the O2 Arena to the Docklands on the North of the river.

It’s part of Transport for London and you can use it simply as a means to cross or you can make more of special trip by buying a Discovery Experience .

I travelled on this for the first time a couple of years ago and it was amazing to just slow down and get a great view of the river and skyline – highly recommended if you can do it!

Climb the O2

Finally in our list of things to do in Greenwich is one not for the faint hearted!

Th O2 is a quite distinctive building on the banks of the Thames, built for the turn of the millennium and it’s currently used as an entertainment venue for concerts and shows.

As well as maybe finding a show that takes your fancy one other thing that you can do is to climb the outside of the building all the way to the top.

It’s a great family activity if your kids are a little older (over 8 years) and can even be a little bit romantic if you decide to coincide your climb with the sunset! I’m not sure my husband who is scared of heights would agree though!

Practical Information for Visiting Greenwich, London

Getting to Greenwich You can get to Greenwich in a variety of different ways.  There’s a train station in Greenwich and also the DLR (Docklands Light Railway) serves there too which is included on travel passes and can be travelled with an Oyster card. DLR Stations you’ll need are either: Cutty Sark (for Maritime Greenwich) or Greenwich The River Bus will drop you at Greenwich Pier which is right by the Cutty Sark. Don’t be confused by North Greenwich Pier which is a little further away. Staying in Greenwich To stay in the heart of the historic borough of Greenwich why not check out Admiral Hardy , a bed and breakfast just minutes from all the museums. Alternatively there’s a lot of apartments to rent in the area.

Check Booking.com to see what’s around – they cover both vacation rentals and hotels.

You might also like :

• My favourite children’s books about London
• 19 fun things to do near Stonehenge, England
• How to find budget accommodation in UK – cheap options for your England or Scotland vacation

Planning a Britain vacation? Join our FREE trip planning community!

Come and join our FREE Facebook group where you can get help with planning your Britain vacation of a lifetime!

🇬🇧💂‍♀️ London Travel FAQ 💂‍♀️🇬🇧

Do I need insurance for traveling to London?

YES! I always recommend people take travel insurance when exploring the world!

Check Travel Insurance Master for quote comparisons from different providers.

Do I need a car for visiting London?

NO – If you’re just visiting London then a car is not recommended and can be more of a hindrance than a help.

If you plan to explore more of the UK then I recommend DiscoverCars to compare car rental prices

How to book accommodation in London?

For hotels I recommend Booking.com

For apartments and cottages check out VRBO

Will my phone work in London?

Perhaps – it depends if you have roaming enabled and beware this can be an expensive way to use your phone.

If you need a SIM for use in the UK I recommend GiffGaff which you can get and set up before traveling.

What’s the best guidebook for London?

I really like the Lonely Planet Guidebooks

Where to get flights for London

Expedia is my first port of call for finding cheap flights to London.

Do I need a visa for London?

Many countries don’t need a visa for visiting England as tourists (USA, Canada, Aus, NZ and Europe) – it’s always best to check first though .

Kirsty Bartholomew

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11 Very Best Things To Do In Greenwich, London

Greenwich might just be one of the best areas in London to visit! Of course, we’re a little bit biased but there’s a heap of the best things to do in Greenwich that are dotted all across the neighbourhood, which you really can’t miss. 

Being one of the three Royal Boroughs in London (alongside Chelsea and Kensington and Kingston-Upon-Thames), it’s made quite a name for itself for its centuries of history, some of the most iconic London palaces and London markets .

Plus, it’s only a stone’s throw from the very centre of London so what’s not to love! 

Now, for me, the thing that makes Greenwich so great (after all the historical spots) is that it’s totally walkable and really easy to stroll around in a day or two. This is great if you fancy seeing a different side of London, especially as it’s so different from other areas like Camden or Covent Garden . 

Oh, and don’t forget to check out these tours and tickets with GetYourGuide. They have a 24-hour cancellation policy and the tours in Greenwich are just incredible. 

With this in mind, I’ve popped over a few of my favourite spots and all the best things to do in Greenwich for your visit. Have the best time! 

1.) The Painted Hall 

Part of the Royal Navy College, the Painted Hall is totally awe-inspiring to see.

Recently renovated to its former glory, it has some of London’s most beautiful Baroque interiors which are totally easy to visit. 

In fact, the Painted Hall is often nicknamed London’s Sistine Chapel (and it’s easy to see why). This masterpiece, from the 1700s, is just beautiful.

Now, although you won’t have mass crowds entering all at once if you do want to avoid the majority of other visitors head across when it first opens.

We visited at 10 am and we had the whole hall to ourselves for around 10 minutes. It was epic! 

Read more: Best tours in London to book

2.) Queen’s House 

It’s said, the Queen’s House was gifted to Anne of Denmark after her husband (then, King James I) swore at (or around) her for accidentally killing his favourite dog whilst hunting. 

I mean, an actual house as an apology seems like a sweet deal, no? 

Built back in the 1600s, it’s really easy to visit after heading to the Painted Hall as it’s only around a 10-minute stroll (door-to-door).

Today, you can enter inside the Queen’s House (for free) and wander around the stunning art galleries which house Gainsborough and Turner pieces, too. 

It’s totally lovely and one of the best things to do in Greenwich if you love art and history. 

Oh, and be sure to stop by the Tulip Stairs which still stands proudly inside the Queen’s House. 

Read more: Best palaces in London

3.) Greenwich Market

Started almost 300 years go, strolling through the Market is one of the best things to do in Greenwich If you’re feeling peckish. 

Perched right in the heart of Greenwich (relatively close to the Cutty Sark), the market has some of the tastiest food stalls in all of London. With local suppliers, artists and foodie joints, you’ll be totally spoilt for choice.

Not only that, on a Thursday, you’ll get to visit the Antique Market that takes over the hall! It’s great to grab a few vintage trinkets.

Also, just on the foodie side of things, if you fancy a proper London “pie and mash” then head to Goddard’s that’s been going since the 1800s. They have the tastiest homemade pies, creamy mash and liquor! 

Oh, and if you love your brews, head away from the historic centre of Greenwich and visit Meantime Brewery. They have an onsite bar where they serve up their seasonal batches. We loved it, but it is a little away from the “main sights” so be prepared for a longer stroll or short taxi ride. It’s a great stopping point if you’re heading from the Cutty Sark and going up the Peninsular to the O2. 

Read more: Best markets in London

4) Cutty Sark  

Perched right in the centre of Greenwich (near the Old Navy College) the iconic Cutty Sark is the world’s only surviving tea clipper. Nowadays, you can book a family-friendly ticket to get right inside the Cutty Sark, which is a must when visiting Greenwich. 

Way back when, the Cutty Sark was blazing across the oceans but now stands proudly for you to hop on board and explore. It’s one of the best things to do in Greenwich if you’re interested in maritime history, especially as this maritime area of Greenwich is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Oh, and don’t forget to spot the figureheads that are kept below the Cutty Sark from a range of historical vessels. It’s the world’s biggest collection!

Book: Tickets to get inside the Cutty Sark

5.) Maritime Museum 

Strolling through the Maritime Museum is one of the best things to do in Greenwich, especially on a wetter day. Part of the Royal Museums Greenwich, it’s totally free to enter and you can easily spend hours wandering the exhibitions. 

Be sure to spot Admiral Nelson’s uniform that he was wearing at the Battle of Trafalgar. You can even spot the bullet hole that fatally injured Nelson (look at the left shoulder). 

6.) Eltham Palace

Around 20-minutes by taxi (or 40-minutes by train and a stroll), Eltham Palace is a former royal residence that’s totally unique.

You see, starting life in the 1300s, Eltham Palace has gone through many transformations over the years. With its medieval hall and art deco wing, you’ll be able to stroll the rooms and explore how the palace changed over the centuries.

The Tudor Courts would often use Eltham Palace for all their Christmas Celebrations and where Henry VIII grew up! It’s totally gorgeous and well worth visiting for an afternoon trip. 

For me, it’s one of the best things to do in Greenwich and an often-missed palace to visit in London. 

7.) Junk Shop

One of the best things to do in Greenwich is to explore its independent shops, vintage stalls and cute cafes. If you’re looking for some vintage treasures, pop over to the Junk Shop which is a rabbit warren of little coves and floors to explore.

It’s got everything from vintage crockery, and antiques and even a cute little tea room in the back. 

You’ll always find something quirky and cute here!

Read more: Best beaches near London to visit

8.) Royal Observatory

Perched right within Greenwich Park (to the right of the above pic), the Observatory and the Meridian Line is a great places to explore if you love astronomy. 

Once here, take a tour of the observatory, see the historic telescopes and stand right on the Prime Meridian Line. Oh, and in the night you might spot the laser that follows the Prime Meridian Line from the Observatory area and over the skyline of East London. 

Afterwards, head down to Greenwich Grind for a brew and some lunch. We love it. 

Read more: Best areas in London to visit

9.) The O2 

Once known as the Millennium Dome, the O2 is a colossal dome structure within the Greenwich Peninsular. Filled with a mountain of outlets, branded restaurants, an arena and venues, it’s the kind of place you can go for an evening watching world-class artists from Lady Gaga, Beyonce, and Adele to name just a few! 

Be sure to check who’s performing before you visit and make a night of it! 

Also, if you’re feeling up to it, book tickets to climb on top of the O2 on the “Up at the O2” walkways which is lovely around sunset. Oh, and take the cable car if you fancy heading across the Thames, too.

Book: Tickets to walk on the rooftop of the 02

10.) Old Royal Navy College 

Including the Painted Hall (that I mentioned earlier), the Old Royal Naval College is totally stunning and right in the heart of historic Greenwich. 

Be sure to spend some time walking the grounds, taking in the beautiful buildings and seeing the magnificent chapel that’s centuries old.

It’s totally beautiful and you really can’t miss it. 

You might even recognise it from scenes used in the film, Les Misérables , Thor: The Dark World and Pirates of the Caribbean .

Have the best time!

Read more: Best palaces in London  

11.) Greenwich Park

With thousands of years of history (from Roman times), to the centuries-old landscape, the Park has been a part of Greenwich since forever! 

Once here, be sure to see the view across London (just across from the Royal Observatory), visit the Rose Garden and stroll the walking routes. It’s beautiful. 

Depending on when you visit, you might even come across the cherry blossom! 

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The 34 Best Things to Do in London, According to a Local

Top things to do in london.

L ondon ranks high among the best places to travel in the world, attracting millions of visitors from all corners of the globe every year. It may not be one of the cheap places to travel, but there are so many things to do in London that it's definitely worth a visit. So, once you've figured out the best time to visit London and the best time to book a flight —and you've watched King Charles's coronation to get in the mood—where to start?

If you've never been to London, you'll want to make sure to see the most important sights, but also some hidden gems we locals enjoy. I have been living in London for more than five years. I planned to just stay for a few weeks, but I fell in love with the city at first sight—and I still schedule in regular time for exploring my adopted home. I love to share my favorite spots as a travel writer, and I am on speed dial for friends, family and friends of friends who are visiting. It's impossible to fit everything London has to offer into one trip (or even one lifetime!), but it's easy to make the most of your time if you just know how.

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Big Ben is London's most famous landmark, so it's a must-see for all travelers. The name refers to the huge bell inside the clock tower, which first chimed on May 31, 1859, but the whole building at the north end of the Houses of Parliament goes by this nickname. Big Ben was renamed Elizabeth Tower in honor of Queen Elizabeth II 's Diamond Jubilee in 2012, but most people don't call it that.

The tower underwent extensive renovations from summer 2017, and there was much excitement when the bells first rang again in November 2022. It's still not possible to climb up Big Ben quite yet, but the big reopening for visitors is scheduled for later in 2023. Your best bet for a picture-perfect view of the tower and the Houses of Parliament is from Westminster Bridge.

Pro tip: If you want to take a selfie with Big Ben, the best spot is just behind the landmark, on Great George Street. When coming from Westminster Bridge, walk past the tower and the tube station (Westminster) toward St. James's Park, Westminster Abbey to your left. While it might be a bit cliché to pose next to a red phone box, the photo will still look great on your Instagram—and many Londoners snap this shot too.

• Westminster Abbey

If you followed King Charles 's coronation (or other festive royal events such as Prince William  and Kate Middleton 's wedding) you're probably already familiar with Westminster Abbey . But London's most iconic church is even more impressive when you step foot inside yourself. Westminster Abbey was founded in 960 AD and has been the coronation church since 1066. It is also the final resting place of no fewer than 17 monarchs (the late Queen Elizabeth is buried in Windsor Castle), scientists such as Sir Isaac Newton and world-famous writers including Charles Dickens.

Westminster Abbey is both one of London's top tourist attractions and a working church with daily services—so be prepared for crowds and parts of the abbey closed. The church is busiest in the mornings, so visit after lunchtime if you can book a time slot.

Pro tip: While it's perfectly possible to explore the abbey with an audio guide (included in the ticket price), their guided tours are worth a bit of extra money. You will get to see parts of Westminster Abbey that are normally closed to the public, including royal tombs, the Poets' Corner and Lady Chapel—and you'll get to hear lots of interesting facts and anecdotes.

The London Eye

The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the Thames River, and it's been a London landmark of its own for over 20 years, so no list of the things to do in London would be complete without mentioning it. But is it really worth it? Let's face it, the 30-minute-ride comes with a big price tag and potentially long queuing times on top. However, on a sunny day (or at night!) the views are truly stunning. If you're lucky, you'll not only see all the London sights including Big Ben, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace and the Tower Bridge but all the way up to Windsor Castle too. So if you are new to London and don't mind spending some cash, go for it. Fun fact, the London Eye is also one of the top places in the U.K. for people on romantic getaways —and, in fact, to get engaged. They even offer special proposal packages with private pods and champagne.

Pro tip: Technically, you can just show up and buy your ticket on-site, but booking online saves you time and money. There are also discounted combination tickets including a river cruise or entry to Madame Tussaud's.

The Tate Modern

Museums rank high among the most popular attractions in London—and not just because you can visit them regardless of the weather. If you only have time for one, make it the Tate Modern , which is one of the most popular museums in the world . The massive art space with its iconic tower is housed in the former Bankside Power Station and sits right near the Thames, across from St Paul's Cathedral.

The exhibition spaces spread over seven floors and include original works by the likes of Picasso, Matisse and Warhol. Like most museums in London, the Tate Modern is free to visit, unless you want to see a special exhibition (book well in advance in that case). Should you be keen to see the Tate's sister gallery Tate Britain as well, hop on the Tate Boat right in front of the building and travel door to door in style. Boats run every 20 to 30 minutes during museum open hours.

Pro tip: Fancy turning your Tate Modern visit into a fun night out? Keep an eye on the monthly Tate Lates , a mix of art workshops and talks, DJs, bars and live music.

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace has been the official residence of the British monarchs since 1837, and even though all the royal family currently live at other royal estates , it remains the place most associated with the crown. A highlight not to be missed is the Changing of the Guard, a traditional ceremony that sees one detachment of troops taking over from the other, marching along The Mall to Buckingham Palace with musical accompaniment (expect both traditional tunes and pop songs). It takes place on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday and daily during the summer, at 11 A.M. It's one of the best free tourist attractions in London. For a prime spot, arrive at least one hour in advance, as the area gets packed year-round.

Pro tip: The State Rooms inside Buckingham Palace are open to visitors on selected dates during winter and spring, as well as for 10 weeks in summer. Tour tickets sell out quickly, so check dates and book as early as you can.

The Tower Bridge

Walking across the Tower Bridge is a must-do when in London. But nothing beats watching the landmark lift for tall vessels, including cruise ships , to pass through. River traffic has priority on this stretch of the Thames by law, meaning ships can request a lift any time of the day, bringing the traffic on the bridge to a complete halt. On average, the Tower Bridge opens twice a day. But what's the secret behind being at the right place at the right time? Luckily, it's pretty simple, as you can check online  to see when the bridge next lifts.  Then, make sure to arrive on time to watch the spectacle unfold.

Pro tip: For a full view of the lift (and great photo opportunities), position yourself on the river banks or a bridge opposite Tower Bridge. For a more close-up experience, stand on either end of the bridge.

Portobello Road Market

In the 1990s, the movie Notting Hill , starring Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant, made the West London neighborhood of the same name known around the world as a romantic travel destination . But even if you're not a fan of rom-coms , Notting Hill and its famous Portobello Road Market —considered the largest antique market on the planet—have a lot to offer. The stalls, fold-out tables and shops are packed with vintage treasures, from lamps and chairs to paintings, jewelry and secondhand clothing, which makes it a great place for souvenir hunting. The market is open six days a week, but Saturday is the main day when all the sellers, antique hunters and street food vendors are out.

Pro tip: Notting Hill's signature pastel houses are just as famous as the market, and selfies on the steps around the Hillgate Place and Lancaster Road area are high on many visitors' bucket lists. Please keep in mind though that people actually live in these houses, so don't stare into their windows or leave trash behind.

The West End

The West End is London's equivalent to Broadway in New York City and the heart of commercial theater and musical productions in the U.K. More than 16 million people watched performances here in 2022, making tickets one of the hottest holiday gifts . Whether you're into the classics such as Les Miserables (running since 1985) and The Phantom of the Opera (since 1986) or want to see a feel-good musical featuring songs by Tina Turner, ABBA or Queen, this is the place. The Disney musicals are among the most popular things to do in London with kids, but they're just as fun to watch as an adult. For crime fans, Agatha Christie's Mousetrap is a must-see.

Pro tip: If you haven't set your mind on a specific show, you can score excellent last-minute deals on the day using the TodayTix app (look for "rush tickets" at 10 a.m. sharp). I've found myself sitting in some of the best seats in the house for around $30, especially on weeknights. Ticket booths around Leicester Square also sell discounted tickets.

The Tower of London

No list of the best things to do in London would be complete without the Tower of London: an iconic castle, former prison and execution location—as well as the home of the crown jewels . The royals' precious accessories have been stored here since 1661 and only leave the Tower when used on official occasions. Want to see King Charles's and Queen Camilla's crowns ? They are right here!

The Tower of London is more than 900 years old, and you can feel its history in every corner. Keep in mind that the complex is not only impressive but also huge, so plan at least a few hours to see everything. Besides its exhibitions, historic halls and the guards with their signature fur hats, the Tower is famous for its wild ravens. According to legend, the kingdom will fall if the six resident ravens ever decide to leave.

Pro tip: Tickets to the Tower of London come with audio guides. If you'd rather have a human companion, opt for a tour with a Beefeater, a working guard at the fortress.

Borough Market

Dating back to the 13th century, Borough Market , on the south side of the Thames, is London's oldest food market and a great food travel destination with more than 100 stalls and plenty of small restaurants and wine bars where you can enjoy lunch or dinner. While the market originally focused on British produce, you can now get Indian curries, pad Thai, Ethiopian stews, falafel wraps, pasta dishes and, of course, the obligatory fish and chips. There are also plenty of stalls to stock up on bread, veggies, wines and sweets to take home or have later in the day. The market is open Tuesday to Sunday.

Pro tip: Borough Market is a lunch favorite with people working at the nearby offices, so expect long queues around noon. If you can't find a quiet spot to eat, make yourself comfy at the riverbank a few minutes away by foot.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter

London is full of locations featured in the Harry Potter movies (think St. Paul's Cathedral, Leadenhall Market, Borough Market or Tower Bridge), which you can explore on your own. But no place gets "muggles" (non-magic people) closer to Harry Potter's world than the Warner Bros. Studio Tour just outside the city. Here you will walk through Diagon Alley, peek into Harry's cupboard under the stairs and explore Hogwarts rooms such as the Great Hall or Dumbledore's office. You can even sample butter beer! The studio decoration changes according to season. I have seen the summer and Christmas versions so far, and Halloween is next on my list.

Pro tip: Advance booking is essential, even during shoulder seasons . Since muggles are, unfortunately, unable to arrive by broom, a shuttle bus from London's Watford Junction is included in the ticket price.

Columbia Road Market

Columbia Road Flower Market may be London's most popular place for flower shopping, and it's a weekend institution in East London. Rain or shine, the whole street gets packed from 8 a.m. every Sunday with dozens of stalls that sell tulips, roses, cacti, spider plants and banana trees. Judging by Instagram posts and people with cameras around their necks, the market might look like a bit of a tourist trap at first glance. But the majority of the visitors are locals who stock up on flowers after coffee or brunch at one of the little cafes in the neighborhood. The flowers are certainly the main selling point on a Sunday, but Columbia Road is dotted with little art shops and galleries too, so take your time to have a look around.

Pro tip: Columbia Road Market tends to be busy year-round, but if you want to avoid the largest crowds, it pays to show up right when it starts. For the best flower deals, come after lunchtime. The stalls close at around 3 p.m.

London's highest public garden, Sky Garden , sits on the 35th floor of the "Walkie Talkie," one of the city's landmark skyscrapers, and it provides spectacular panoramic views. Sky Garden is an oasis of plants, with an observation deck, an open-air terrace and two restaurants. Entry is free, but advance booking is essential. However, once you're in, you're in, so you can technically spend a whole day among the plants.

If you can't get into Sky Garden (or want to shoot more skyline pictures from a different angle), head to The Garden at 120, an open-air rooftop garden on the 15th floor about a five-minute walk away. It might not be as fancy as Sky Garden, but it's usually a lot quieter. I have had the whole garden to myself on weekday mornings more than once.

Pro tip: Tickets for the Sky Garden are released every Monday, and you can book up to three weeks in advance. If you're in the area but don't have a ticket, it's still worth trying your luck at the door, as they sometimes accept walk-ins.

Traditional afternoon tea

While Brits are the champions of tea drinking, afternoon tea is a lot more than just sipping on your favorite blend. The ritual dates back to the 19th century, when the ladies of the high society met for a light meal to shorten the time until dinner was served. Today, it's mainly saved for special occasions, but it also makes one of the most fun things to do in London when on a city break. A traditional afternoon tea menu includes small sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam and a selection of pastries and cakes. Earl Grey, Darjeeling and English Breakfast are the classic tea blends. If you really want to treat yourself, book a table at the glamorous salon at Cafe Royal . Oscar Wilde, Winston Churchill, Princess Diana and David Bowie were regulars here. Live piano music and champagne are included too.

Pro tip: Looking for a more casual afternoon tea option that doubles as a sightseeing tour? Hop on the Afternoon Tea Bus for a 90-minute ride.

Shakespeare's Globe Theatre

While the Globe Theatre on the South Bank of the Thames isn't the original one from Shakespeare's time (that one burned down in 1613), it's still considered the writer's London home and the closest you could ever get to the original experience. The venue was rebuilt in the same shape and layout, using the original type of wood (green oak) and building techniques. Watch world-famous plays such as A Midsummer Night's Dream , Macbeth and The Comedy of Errors and fully immerse yourself in the world of Shakespeare.

Pro tip: The cheapest way to see a play (or get into an otherwise sold-out show) is the " 5£ Rush Tickets ." These are standing tickets right in front of the stage. While you might miss the comfort of a seat, you'll be closer to the action than anyone else (and save a lot of money too!). Tickets are released every Friday at 11 a.m. for the following week.

Little Venice

London is an amazing city to explore on foot, and once you've ticked off all the major sights, it's time to enjoy one of the locals' favorite walks. When I moved to London, I was amazed at how many locals lived on houseboats—it reminded me of The Netherlands, where I spent my college semester abroad. Regent's Canal is dotted with colorful narrowboats, and you can often watch their owners navigate them to and from their mooring spots. The most beautiful stretch is from King's Cross to Little Venice , a beautiful water canal area full of cafés and pubs and framed by willow trees. You will pass Camden and Regent's Park along the way.

Pro tip: Before you head on your two-hour walk, check out Coal Drop's Yard right behind the King's Cross station, with its restaurants, pubs and artsy shops, and Word on the Water, a floating bookstore.

East London's Shoreditch is one of the hippest districts in the city, with little cafes, quirky shops and bars on every corner. It's also the heart of London's street-art scene. Living in Shoreditch, I'm continuously amazed by all the murals and graffiti popping up overnight (and, sadly, often disappearing just as quickly). If you are like me and love taking edgy pictures, you will feel right at home. I always recommend Shoreditch Street Art Tours to friends visiting, a fun and comprehensive introduction to the local street-art scene. If you head out on your own, save Brick Lane, Fashion Street, Hanbury Street, Princelet Street, New Inn Yard, Redchurch Street and Shoreditch Highstreet Station on Google Maps.

To kill two birds with one stone, visit Shoreditch on a weekend when Brick Lane market (lots of food and some art and clothes stalls) takes place. Truman Brewery on Brick Lane is also home to the biggest indoor vintage market in the U.K., which is open seven days a week.

Pro tip: For a quick and inexpensive snack to go, head to Beigel Bake. The 24-hour shop is the most famous bagel place in London. Attention: They only take cash!

Paddle on the Thames River

Even for people who live in London, the city can feel overwhelming at times. Luckily though, there are plenty of opportunities to escape the hustle and bustle. London might not be the most obvious choice for water sports, but that's exactly how many locals like to spend their summer. Kayaking and canoeing are hugely popular in the city, with paddling clubs dotted along the Thames and the canals. Companies such as London Kayak Co. offer tours, including for beginners, that double as sightseeing trips , taking you past some of London's most iconic landmarks. Personally, I have become a stand-up paddling (SUP) addict, and my current favorite place to go is Richmond Park . Nothing beats sunset paddling after work or on a weekend, then ending the day on the terrace of a riverside pub.

Pro tip: You don't have to be a kayak or SUP pro to enjoy this activity. As long as you are reasonably fit (and not afraid to fall into the water, should you opt for paddleboarding) you are good to go.

Kensington Gardens

One of London's eight royal parks and formerly part of Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens is a popular recreational area where you can take a stroll, have a picnic, check out exhibitions at the Serpentine galleries, visit Kensington Palace or—if you're traveling with kids—make the most of the Diana Memorial Playground (including a wooden pirate ship and sculptures inspired by Peter Pan).

Ring-necked parakeets have spread all over London, but this park is your best bet to see them up close. And while nobody seems to be quite sure how they originally ended up in London, thousands have called it home since the 1990s. Here, the parakeets are so used to people they will land on your outstretched hands (or your shoulders or your head!) when you bring snacks (apples or seeds)—and sometimes even if you don't. Be aware, though, that the cute birds have surprisingly sharp claws, so your arms might end up looking like you've just been scratched by an angry cat.

Pro tip: The parakeets can be found near the Peter Pan statue in Kensington Garden. If you arrive by tube, get off at Lancaster Gate, walk past the lake and follow the squawking.

Summer music festivals

Glastonbury (the British equivalent to Coachella) is the No. 1 festival every music fan in the U.K. wants to attend. But London has a great number of other festivals, too, that are well worth checking out. Plus, there's no camping, so you can leave your sleeping bags and rain boots at home.

The largest event every year is the British Summer Time Festival in Hyde Park , commonly known as BST. It spreads over multiple dates throughout two weeks from the end of June. This year's headliners include Bruce Springsteen, Guns N'Roses and Pink. Other festivals I've attended that I'd definitely recommend: All Points East (two weekends in August, offering rock, indie and alternative music), Wireless (in July, a mecca for hip-hop fans), Mighty Hoopla (early June, a celebration of cheesy pop and queer culture, with lots of attendees dressed up accordingly) and Hampton Court Palace Festival (multiple days in June, come for both the music and the location).

Pro tip: For environmental reasons and due to the fact that London's summers get hotter by the year, many festivals now allow music fans to take refillable bottles inside, with water stations to be found all around the festival sites.

Barbican Conservatory

The Barbican Centre is London's largest multi-arts venue. Movies, live gigs, plays, exhibitions, restaurants—you name it, the iconic complex has it all. One of the lesser known gems is their indoor garden on Level 3, which houses 2,000 species of plants and trees as well as three small ponds. It's a great place if you need a break from sightseeing or want to spend a relaxing hour or two hiding from the rain. Plus, it's quite romantic—a friend of mine got engaged amidst the plants! Unfortunately, the whole Barbican complex tends to feel like a labyrinth with tons of confusing walkways. Schedule in some extra time just in case you get lost, and don't sweat it, because it regularly happens to pretty much every Londoner.

Pro tip: The Conservatory is only open on select days. Entry is free, but book a time slot in advance to make sure you'll get in. Tickets are released one week in advance on Fridays at 10 a.m., with a limited number of additional ones available at 9:30 a.m. on the day.

Gods Own Junkyard

Gods Own Junkyard is a surreal exhibition place packed with blinking neon signs, old movie props, circus lighting and retro displays. It's the private collection of the late owner Chris Bracey, who made signs for Soho's strip clubs before he went on to work with some of Hollywood's greatest directors, including Tim Burton ( Charlie and the Chocolate Factory ), Christopher Nolan ( Batman ) and Stanley Kubrick ( Eyes Wide Shut ).

The gallery-turned-warehouse isn't exactly close to the city center, but it ranks high among the best things to do in London. Entry is free, however you might end up taking a neon sign home from their small shop. There's also a cafe and fully licensed bar, if you want to linger for a bit.

Pro tip: It might be tempting, but Gods Own Junkyard is, unfortunately, not the place to try out your latest camera gear. You are allowed to take pictures with your phone (for personal use and social media) but not with any cameras or professional equipment.

Cahoots Underground

If you like colorful cocktails and immersive experiences, make sure to check out some of London's hidden bars. One of the coolest places I've been is the 1940s-inspired Cahoots Underground , located in a retired tube station around the corner from Soho's Carnaby Street. The speakeasy bar is decorated with tube signs and maps, the cocktails (with names like "Winston Churchill" and "Judy Garland") are listed in a newspaper instead of a regular menu, and the waiters are dressed up as ticket inspectors. What's more, there's a live piano player taking requests from guests (everything from Frank Sinatra to Miley Cyrus). Be prepared for spontaneous singalongs and people dancing between the tables.

Other hidden bars worth checking out include Nightjar Shoreditch (old-school glamour, candlelit tables and live jazz and swing), Discount Suit Company (in a former suit tailor's storeroom), Opium in Chinatown (a 1920s Shanghai-themed bar tucked away behind red curtains), Purl (1920s theme, live music and cocktail mixing classes) and Ladies & Gents (in a former public washroom).

Pro tip: Better safe than sorry—all the above-mentioned bars are very popular, so book a table just in case.

Dennis Severs' House

If you've ever wondered what everyday London life looked like in the 18th century, Dennis Severs' House gives you a first-hand taste. The building was left exactly as when the original owners, a family of silk weavers, lived there. The rooms are lit by fire and candlelight, and visitors are encouraged to tour them in complete silence to "not disturb the family." You will find yourself wandering around the living room full of faded photographs, old carpets, mugs and books. The kitchen has a fully laid table—bitten apples included! It almost feels like the family is about to return and go on with their daily routine any moment. To make the time-travel experience even more authentic, there are also added scents of food, woodsmoke and chatters of the occupants.

Pro tip: Walk-up tickets are available, but unless you don't mind standing in line for up to an hour or two, I'd recommend booking a time slot.

Talk to any Londoner and they'll probably tell you that Camden is just not what it used to be. And I'm not going to lie, the North London neighborhood has dramatically changed in recent years. Its edgy, alternative vibe is pretty much gone. Many of the charming parts of Camden Market  were replaced by fancy stalls, food courts and colorful hanging umbrellas. However, Camden is still well worth a visit, you just need to do a bit more digging. Ignore the souvenir shops and look for the small creative sellers that have stood their ground. Then head to The Hawley Arms, my go-to Camden pub and a musician's hangout. The late, great Amy Winehouse was a regular.

Camden's music scene is legendary, and many pubs have live gigs and open-mic nights. Some of the most iconic venues to check out for gigs include KOKO (frequented by supermodels such as Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss in their heydays), Electric Ballroom, Spiritual Records, Dingwalls and Jazz Cafe.

Pro tip: The annual Camden Rocks Festival sees hundreds of gigs around Camden Town. Check out updates and ticket information here .

A pub for Sunday roast

Sunday roast is a British meal traditionally consisting of roasted meat of some sort (beef is the most common), mashed and roasted potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, carrots, seasonal greens, gravy and apple or mint sauce. It's a big, hearty meal typically enjoyed early or late Sunday afternoon. Classic drinks to go with the foodie feast include local beers and ciders.

Sunday roasts rank high among the top things to do in London, and luckily there are plenty of options all around the city. One of the most popular is Camberwell Arms , which features five options served for two people to share. Other good choices are the trendy Blacklock Shoreditch (located inside a former furniture factory) and Quality Chop House, which has fed hungry guests since 1869. If you're a vegan, like me, or just curious about a meat-free option, head to The Spread Eagle, London's first fully plant-based pub.

Pro tip: All the above pubs (and many others around the city) are packed on Sunday, so booking is essential.

Royal Albert Hall

Opened in 1871 by Queen Victoria (and dedicated to her husband Albert, hence the name), Royal Albert Hall is probably the world's most famous concert hall. Its annual highlight is The Proms , an eight-week series of classical music organized by the BBC. But even if you're not a fan of orchestra performances, the venue is worth a visit. It's stunning inside and out and has the best acoustics you can find in the city.

What's more, the program is a lot more varied than you might expect. They also feature regular pop and rock gigs, and Eric Clapton, Beyoncé and Jay-Z, David Bowie and the Beatles have played here. You can also catch circus performances, movie nights, yoga sessions with live music and the occasional sumo wrestling event. If you go to a live gig, be prepared for the band to leave the stage midconcert for a mandatory interval. When I saw Bryan Adams in 2022, he apologized for the break, then jokingly explained that even rock stars had to follow the Royal Albert Hall's strict house rules.

Pro tip: Many of the events at Royal Albert Hall are instant sell-outs, but it's always worth checking at the box office or their website for last-minute tickets on the day of the event. If you're interested in a peek behind the scenes, book a backstage tour.

Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum in posh South Kensington is one of the best things to do in London with kids. It houses more than 80 million animals, plants and rocks spanning 4.5 billion years that are displayed in about 20 galleries. The main eye-catcher upon arrival is a 25.2-metre-long blue whale skeleton hanging from the ceiling. The female animal died in Ireland more than 120 years ago and was given a name when moved to its new home: Hope. Other highlights include dinosaurs, a giant gorilla, a Moon rock sample from the 1972 Apollo 16 mission, meteorites and an earthquake simulator. The Natural History Museum is free to visit except for special exhibitions.

Pro tip: Watch out for museum events such as yoga and tai chi classes, silent disco nights or sleepovers for grown-ups.

Gordon's Wine Bar

Gordon's Wine Bar , conveniently located close to Covent Garden and the West End, is London's oldest wine bar. It opened its doors in 1890, and not much has changed since. The moment you step into this cave-like spot you'll be transported back in time, with most of the original decor still in place. Faded newspaper articles and photos hang on the walls, and there are wine-bottle candle holders and old-fashioned wooden chairs and tables. The low ceiling further adds to the atmosphere. As expected, the bar has an extensive choice of wines, which can be paired with cheese, meat, mezze and sharing boards.

Gordon's is not only a great place for drinks and food but also for people-watching. The bar is one of the most popular spots for people to first meet their dating-app match.

Pro tip: Gordon's Wine Bar is one of the few places in London that do not accept bookings. Arrive early, and be prepared to wait for a bit—it will be worth it.

Greenwich makes a fun day out of the city—without actually leaving the city. Located in the southeast of London, it's home to an artsy market with lots of food stalls, a beautiful park perfect for taking London skyline pictures, the National Maritime Museum and the Cutty Sark, one of the oldest and best known tea clipper ships in the world. There's also the Prime Meridian at the Royal Observatory, where you can stand with one foot in the western hemisphere and the other foot in the eastern. Greenwich can be reached by tube, bus and train, but the most fun way is to take a boat from central London. Hop on board at Westminster Pier and see famous landmarks such as Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, St Paul's Cathedral and Tower Bridge from the water.

Pro tip: While it's possible to buy tickets for the boats from the ticket booths and machines at the pier, the easiest way is to just use your bank or credit card and tap in and out like you would at the bus or tube.

Saatchi Gallery

London has about 200 museums, but Saatchi Gallery is the one place I keep coming back to again and again. A registered charity, the exhibition place is known for its fun and immersive displays of all kinds of subcultures and contemporary photo shows, and it's a supporter of up-and-coming artists from the U.K. and beyond. Highlights I've seen here include a show on the heydays of the British rave scene, exhibitions on Bob Marley and French street artist JR, as well as American photographers documenting social change since the 1960s. Recently, they also had a three-floor display of the U.K.'s graffiti scene.

Pro tip: The gallery regularly hosts artists talks, and they also have "Saatchi Lates," which feature extended exhibition hours, workshops and DJ sets.

Independent cinemas

While London's big-chain movie theaters around Leicester Square all come with XXL screens and the latest technology, the independent ones are where the real magic happens. Just around the corner from Leicester Square toward China Town is Prince Charles Cinema , where both the latest blockbusters and classic movies are shown. They also have movie marathons—from Harry Potter to Terminator and Lord of the Rings— where fans gather for up to 24 hours to watch the whole series. They even encourage singalongs during music-movie marathons by projecting lyrics on the screen for a karaoke vibe.

I am a regular at Genesis Cinema in East London, which has been showing movies since 1912 and comes with bar events such as open-mic and comedy nights on top. They also charge only 5£ Monday to Thursday, which is less than a third of what you'd pay on Leicester Square. Other great places include Electric Cinema, which has leather armchairs and double beds in the front row; Lexi Cinema, a volunteer-run place supporting charities in South Africa); and Everyman Screen on the Green, where wine and pizza are served to your seat.

Pro tip: London hosts tons of small and large film festivals throughout the year, so watch out for premieres, Q&As and other special events.

Highgate Cemetery

Walking around graves might not seem the most obvious choice for a fun day out in London, but Highgate Cemetery is worth making an exception. The Victorian cemetery looks a bit cramped and chaotic, but the sunken headstones, faded engravings and missing names on the tombs make it beautiful and charming at the same time. Highgate is the final resting place of no less than 170,000 people, including many celebrities. The one resident most visitors are looking for is German philosopher Karl Marx. His grave can be found in the east part of the cemetery and is easily recognizable by a giant sculpture of his head.

Pro tip: To enter the cemetery , you need a ticket, which you can buy online or on site. If you want some background info (and to hear morbid anecdotes), you can also book a guided tour.

Hackney City Farm

Big cities and farms might not go together well at first glance, but London does have several working farms close to its busiest districts. One of the loveliest is Hackney City Farm in East London, which has pigs, donkeys, ponies, sheep, ducks, a vegetable garden, a small shop that sells homemade produce and a restaurant. The farm opened in 1984 and regularly welcomes local school kids. They also run workshops in animal handling and arts classes including pottery and woodworking.

Pro tip: Visits are free, but donations are welcome. Don't leave without a drink in their cute backyard garden.

• Visit London : "London's Big Ben"
• Visit London : "Natural History Museum"
• The Royal Collection Trust : "Buckingham Palace"
• Historic Royal Palaces : "Crown Jewels"
• Shakespeare's Globe
• Natural History Museum : "Wild parakeets in the UK: exotic delights or a potential problem?"

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