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My information to the highest sights and issues to do in Greenwich, London…
London is famend for its wealthy historical past and vibrant tradition, and Greenwich is without doubt one of the finest locations to expertise each. This charming space is certainly one of my private favorite elements of London. With its village vibes and tranquil parks, it feels a world away from the busy metropolis centre – but it’s additionally house to a few of the metropolis’s most iconic sights.
From gorgeous architectural marvels to a fab indie buying scene, there’s rather a lot to uncover! Whether you’re a historical past lover, a foodie, or just on the lookout for a enjoyable and inexpensive time out, Greenwich has one thing for everybody. Here’s my round-up of a few of the high issues to do in this charming a part of London.
Top Things to do in Greenwich
Royal Observatory Greenwich
Stand with a foot in every hemisphere on the Prime Meridian Line and discover the UK’s largest refracting telescope, a 4.5 billion-year-old asteroid, and the one planetarium in London. The Royal Observatory additionally gives interactive shows, historic timekeeping units, and engaging insights into the historical past of astronomy.
Cutty Sark
Climb aboard the world’s final surviving tea clipper, constructed on the finish of the golden age of sail. Discover what life was like aboard this Nineteenth-century ship and stroll beneath its hull, which is suspended mid-air. The Cutty Sark gives interactive reveals, partaking excursions, and gorgeous views of the River Thames from its decks.
Greenwich Market
A bustling market providing a mixture of designer-maker arts and crafts, antiques, and avenue meals. It’s an important place to discover distinctive souvenirs, take pleasure in scrumptious treats, and expertise the colourful ambiance of Greenwich. The market is open day by day, with particular themed markets on weekends.
London Cable Car
Take a flight over the River Thames on the IFS Cloud Cable Car for a singular perspective of the town. Enjoy panoramic views of London landmarks, together with the O2 Arena, Canary Wharf, and the Olympic Park, as you glide throughout the river.
Top Tip: The cable automobile is operated by Transport for London and will be paid for by contactless or Oyster card, similar to the Tube and buses. The fare is £7 a method for adults.
Discover Greenwich on the Visitor Centre
Start your day in Greenwich on the Discover Greenwich exhibition, a newly renovated museum area housed in the Visitor Centre on the Old Royal Naval College. Opened in 2010, it options everlasting exhibitions round a central round glass mannequin of the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site. Learn about Greenwich Palace, the Royal Hospital for Seamen, the Royal Naval College, and extra.
Painted Hall
Within the grounds of the Old Royal Naval College, the Painted Hall, designed by Sir Christopher Wren and Nicholas Hawksmoor, is free to go to. James Thornhill accomplished its magnificent work over 19 years, which spotlight the significance of the British navy. This gorgeous corridor is typically used for banquets and weddings, and it’s possible you’ll acknowledge it from the movie Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.
Top Tip: Guided excursions can be found to present deeper insights into the corridor’s wealthy historical past and paintings.
The O2
Originally constructed as an exhibition corridor to commemorate the Millennium, The O2 is now a significant venue internet hosting live shows, exhibitions, and a wide range of different occasions. Inside, you’ll discover an array of eating places, bars, and even an indoor skydiving expertise.
Don’t Miss: Adventurous guests can e book a tour to climb the roof of this world-famous leisure venue for breathtaking views of London.
National Maritime Museum
The National Maritime Museum, the world’s largest maritime museum, covers 500 years of Britain at sea and connects maritime historical past with fashionable life. Admiral Lord Nelson’s jacket, worn on the Battle of Trafalgar and that includes a bullet gap in the left shoulder from the deadly shot, is on show. Kids will love the ‘All Hands’ Gallery, a free indoor playground of studying.
Queen’s House
Next to the National Maritime Museum is the Queen’s House, designed by Inigo Jones in 1616 for Charles I’s queen, Henrietta Maria. It now homes the National Maritime Museum’s artwork gallery, that includes works by Canaletto and Van de Veldes, nautical maps and charts, medals and cash, carved figureheads, and different seafaring objects from the late seventeenth century till the early twentieth century.
Don’t Miss: The Tulip Stairs and the Great Hall, two gorgeous architectural highlights.
Greenwich Park
Greenwich Park is the oldest enclosed Royal Park, masking 73 hectares (183 acres). It features a boating lake and a deer park with purple and fallow deer, however most guests climb the hill for spectacular views subsequent to The Observatory.
Time your go to to see the purple ball drop on high of Flamsteed House, which will be considered from the underside of the hill. At 12:55 pm, the ball rises midway up the mast, reaches the highest at 12:58 pm, and drops precisely at 1:00 pm. Historically, this offered a time sign to passing ships, however at present, it’s a enjoyable expertise, particularly for youthful guests.
Eltham Palace and Gardens
A surprising mixture of medieval and Art Deco structure, surrounded by stunning gardens. It’s a bit far out from central Greenwich, however nicely well worth the go to. Explore the opulent interiors, together with the Great Hall, the Art Deco eating room, and the elegant bedrooms. The gardens supply a tranquil retreat – look out for the medieval moat and sunken rose backyard.
Map + Quick List!
Royal Observatory Greenwich
Cutty Sark
Greenwich Market
London Cable Car
Discover Greenwich Visitor Centre
Painted Hall
The O2
National Maritime Museum
Queen’s House
Greenwich Park
Eltham Palace and Gardens
Greenwich really gives a exceptional mix of historical past, tradition, and pure magnificence. With so many various sights and actions, it’s a vacation spot that guarantees unforgettable experiences for each customer. So, whether or not you’re exploring iconic landmarks or having fun with the serene parks, you’re positive to create lasting reminiscences in this charming nook of London.
How many of those superior Greenwich sights have you ever visited? Let me know in the feedback!