Things To Do

13 Fun Things To Do In Greenwich London

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When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain
 

 

I thought I would put together a list of 10 things to do in London’s Greenwich Village. Since moving from Greenwich and into central London I don’t really visit this part of London as much I used to when I lived just around the corner from most the places below.

When the sun is out in London Greenwich Village is the place to be. Think views of the city, beautiful park, bustling restaurants with river views and historical buildings beaming with a charm that you will want to spend a full day here.

Just bring a picnic basket and find a spot on the green. Most people when visiting London only concentrate on the London Eye, Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, St Pauls and a few other places that they few are the perfect tourist spots to hit up.

That goes for other Londoners too, if you haven’t been to Greenwich or London Greenwich Village as its called now, then you need to check it out. Other than getting yourselves food most things to see and do in this part are all free.

 

When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain

 

 

10 Things To See and Do In Greenwich Village

There are plenty of pubs, restaurants, cafes, bars and attractions to fill your day in Greenwich. Shopping in Greenwich is also an activity in itself with the many markets and independent shopping outlets in the area.

 

1. Visit The Cutty Sark

The last of the 19th Century tea-clippers. The Cutty Sark was resorted and reopened only  2 years ago. It was the finest and fastest ship of its day and now sits by the river side just as you get off the boat at the pier, you will have a view of this beautiful ship in your view. You can walk right underneath the boat too.

Cutty Sark Opening Hours: 10am-5pm – Monday to Sunday.

Entrance Costs: £13.50 for adults and £7 for children.

When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain

When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain

When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain

 

2. Explore The GMT Line – Greenwich Observatory

Founded in 1675 by Charles II in aid of promoting safer navigation. It contains astronomical instruments as well as many items of interest. One of the Observatory’s towers features a red time ball that drops at 1pm every days, a device originally intended to enable vessels in the river to regulate their chronometers.

 

This is also where you will find the zero meridians of longitude, dividing the world into eastern and western halves.

Greenwich Observatory Opening Hours: 10am-5pm – Monday to Sunday

Entrance Costs: £7 for adults and £2.50 for adults.

 

When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain

When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain

 

3. Visit The Queen’s House

The Palladian mansion that sit right next to the Maritime Museum. A masterpiece. Famous for its tulip stairs and a superb collection of fine art with Greenwich Park as its garden you don’t have further to walk for your next attraction. Entry is FREE!

Queens House Opening Hours: 10am to 5pm – Monday to Sunday

Entrance Costs: Free.

 

When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain

When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain

When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain

 

4. Greenwich Naval College

No visit to Greenwich is complete without visiting the Greenwich Naval College. The beautiful Painted Hall and Chapel are all places that are a must-see.

The college sits on the grounds that were occupied by the palace belonging to Edward I and later Henry VII. It’s also where Henry VII was born, where Catherine of Aragon and Anne Cleves were born.

 

This place later became a hospital for sick and disabled seamen while Christopher Wren(the architect who also built St Paul’s Cathedral), went on to build a new palace. With that much history, this is not a place to pass up. It also helps that its FREE to explore!

See also  A Pub Crawl Through Greenwich: 16 Best Pubs To Visit

 

Greenwich Naval College Opening Hours: 10 am to 5 pm – Monday to Friday

Entrance Costs: Free

 

 

 

When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain

When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain

When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain

When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain

When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain

 

5. Visit Mudchute Park and Farm Near Greenwich

Looking for fun things to do near Greenwich. This one is perfect, particularly with kids. Mudchute Park and Farm is a unique green space located on the Isle of Dogs in East London. The park covers 32 acres and includes a working farm, an equestrian center, community gardens, orchards, and wildlife habitats.

Visitors to Mudchute Park and Farm can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as walking, cycling, and picnicking. The park has a network of footpaths that wind through woodland, meadows, and wetlands, providing opportunities to spot birds, butterflies, and other wildlife.

The farm is a popular attraction and is home to a wide range of farm animals, including cows, sheep, pigs, goats, ducks, and chickens. Visitors can get up close and personal with the animals, learn about their care and feeding, and even help with farm chores.

The equestrian center at Mudchute Park and Farm offers riding lessons for all ages and abilities, as well as horse and pony care courses. There is also a café and shop on site selling refreshments and souvenirs.

Entry Fee: Entry to Mudchute Park and Farm was free, although donations were welcome to help support the upkeep of the farm and its animals.

 

 

6. Check Out The Greenwich Markets and Shops

Greenwich market has been trading since the 1700s, now a popular and bustling market with homemade food stalls, flowers, books, young and upcoming designers, one of whom is close friend of mine whose brand has blossomed.

 

You can now find her closes on ASOS or her website at Sika Designs.

Greenwich Market Opening Times: 10 am to 5.30pm – Monday to Sunday.

Entrance Costs: Free

 

 

When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain

 

7. Climb The O2 Dome

An iconic building in London, previously known as the Millenium Dome has been transformed from one of the most hated capital buildings(due to how much money the government threw at it).

Now a plush hall housing many restaurants, in addition, to be used for concerts, exhibitions, and live sports. What most people don’t know is that you can now climb to the top of the building for a little exhilarating adventure in the city.

 

Free to explore the dome but pretending to be spiderman and climbing the dome costs about £25, also wise to book in advance as there are no special treatments for superheroes. For more on events at the O2, how to get there, and details on restaurant and more check out The O2 website.

 

Climb The O2 Opening Hours: 10 am to 7 pm – Monday to Sunday

Entrance Costs/For The Climb: £30-40

You can now climb during the day and after sunset and see London’s Skyline at twilight. For more on check out the Up The O2.

 

When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain

 

 

 

 

8. Check Out Greenwich Gastronomy  – The Food Scene

If you haven’t tried freshly made food at the market then start with that. You will food interesting combinations of cupcake flavours to tasty Asian food there but once the markets close your have a choice of restaurants to choose from.

From your global chains like Nandos, Pizza Express to Greenwich’s own famous. I could name names but I will let Time Out’s post on Restaurants in Greenwichgive your details.

 

When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain

 

9. National Maritime Museum

The museum houses the world’s largest collection of navy artifacts; ranging from Tudor to Stuart times. These can be found in the museum and the Queens House. There is a huge interactive map of the world used to detail details of some of the famous events in naval history.

See also  The Best London Nightlife Areas - A Guide To Best Place To Go Out In London

 

When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain

When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain

 

10. Ride The Emirates Airline Cable Cars

Crossing the river has never been more fun. This is London’s only cable cars crossing the River Thames between Greenwich Peninsula and Royal Docks. The flight lasts 10 minutes with cars living and arriving every 30 seconds.

 

You can use your oyster cards here. It’s £4.50 for adults and £2.50 for children. They also offer other experiences that cost a little bit more. (If you are heading to Cutty Sark by boat, you can stop here first by boat  and pick up the same boat to Cutty Sark for the rest of this list.)

 

For more information of location and opening times for Emirates Airline Cable Cars, check the Transport For London site.

 

When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain

When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain

Emirates Cable Car Journey Map

 

 

11. Have A Picnic in Greenwich Park

Greenwich Park covers 183 acres of land and one of London’s oldest parks among the eight Royal Parks. Open from 6am until late in the evening so its perfect for morning strolls, picnics and even better for watching the sunsets with views into the city.

 

You also have the Old Royal Observatory, Ranger’s House with the Werner Collection of Jewellery, paintings and silverware.

 

When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain

When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain

 

12. The Fan Museum

The Fan Museum in Greenwich is dedicated to the history and art of fans from around the world. The museum is housed in two beautiful Georgian townhouses that have been restored to their original splendor.

Inside the museum, visitors can explore a vast collection of fans dating back to the 11th century. The collection includes ornate and intricately designed fans from Europe, Asia, and America. There are also temporary exhibitions that showcase contemporary fan design and art.

In addition to the fan collection, the museum also houses a Japanese-style garden that provides a peaceful and tranquil space for visitors to relax and enjoy.

Entry Fee:  adults was £5.50, while concessions (students, seniors, and children aged 7-16) paid £4.00. Children under 7 were admitted for free.

 

 

 
 
 
 
 
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13. See A Comedy Show At Up The Creek

Up the Creek Comedy Club is a well-known comedy venue located in Greenwich. The club has been entertaining audiences with top-notch comedy acts since it opened its doors in 1991.

The club’s interior is designed with a simple, modern aesthetic that focuses on providing a cozy and intimate atmosphere for comedy performances. The main auditorium has a capacity of around 200 people, and there is also a smaller bar area that can accommodate about 50 people.

Up the Creek regularly features some of the best stand-up comedians from the UK and beyond. The club’s programming includes weekly comedy nights, as well as special events and festivals throughout the year. Up the Creek has also been known to host surprise performances from well-known comedians.

In addition to its comedy performances, the club also offers a full bar and food menu, making it a great place to hang out with friends and enjoy a night of entertainment.

Overall, Up the Creek Comedy Club is a must-visit destination for comedy lovers in London. With its friendly staff, top-notch performers, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s easy to see why it has remained one of the city’s most popular comedy venues for over 30 years.

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Entry Fee: From £3.50
 
 
 
 
 

 

 

Transport | How To Get To London’s Greenwich Village?

 
How do you get to Greenwich Village? You can get here by DLR trains, there are plenty of buses from central London or my personal preference is by boat! Take the boat and get off at Cutty Sark and begin your exploring.
If you are exploring central London, you can pick up the MNBA boat from Westminster, St Pauls/Tate Modern Pier, London Bridge and Tower Castle Pier.

 

If you want to explore London by boat then I would suggest getting a ticket that allows you to hop on and hop off. This way you can explore most of the major spots mentioned all by boat.
For more on the MBNA Thames Clipper boats and the piers to visit get on click on the link for further information. MBNA Thames Clippers provide commuters and sightseers with a unique way to travel around the capital.

 

For more on getting to Greenwich Village by bus, train, cable car boat from central London and from the airport including journey times check out the Visit London’s guide on how to get to Greenwich.

 

 

 

When the sun's out in London, Greenwich is the place to be. There's plenty things to do in Greenwich. Beautiful park, markets, restaurants, river views. Naval College, Observatory, Maritime Line, and so much more. #greenwichvillage #prettyLondon #uk #britain

Other Places To Visit In Greenwich Village 

If time allows there are other gems to check out in London’s Greenwich Village, beyond the 1o above.

 

  • Eltham Palace and Gardens – A showpiece of Art Deco design and part medieval royal palace Eltham Palace was created for millionaires Stephen and Virginia Courtauld. The Gardens are a full 19 acres of glorious rolling green and bloom and well worth an afternoon all to themselves. There are often exciting events for kids and adults during the year.

 

  • Thames Barrier – The Thames Barrier spans 520 meters across the River Thames near Woolwich, and it protects 125 square kilometers of central London from flooding caused by tidal surges.  More here.

 

Visiting Greenwich Village With Kids

 
If you are visiting London with kids London Greenwich Village is a must. Cutty Sark, Greenwich Observatory, markets and the huge park for them to run around in is always a winner!
Not to mention adding the MNBA boat ride into the itinerary. To help you plan a family outing in Greenwich check out Family day out in Greenwich page on Visit London.

 

Nearest Airport to London’s Greenwich Village

London City Airport is within earshot of Greenwich and a lot easier and quicker to get to than Heathrow or Gatwick. There are flights to 35 European cities from London City Airports.

So if you are visiting from Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Spain or France, this airport is super easy and you have access to beautiful surrounds. Its cheaper in Greenwich than staying in the middle of London.

You have access to buses, DLR trains, and boat services right at the doorstep many other tourist sights in Central London. This area is also popular for people coming to London on business as Canary Wharf and City are an easy commute from here.

For flights leaving or landing at London’s City Airport check out one of my favourite flight search sites Kayak. You can even filter it down the airport and select ‘LCY’ for London City Airport.

Map of Things To Do In Greenwich

 

 
Bianca

Bianca

My name is Bianca and welcome to my local guide of London's Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea. Everything you need to know about exploring London in addition to the coolest hangouts and Instagrammable spots.

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33 comments

  2. These pics are amazing! We are currently thinking to work through the things to do in Greenwich list you have highlighted. Just wanted to ask if the Greenwich London ferry or boat services to Greenwich are better to travel by train to Greenwich.

    Reply

  3. I haven't been to Greenwich but would love to check it out! The views from Greenpark in London look great and the markets sound like something I'd love to visit! Can you tell me if the Greenwich London nightlife is fairly decent there?

    Reply

    1. Oh then you must definitely come soon! I love this part of London. Th beautiful views from Greenwich park, museums, markets and restaurants. Love the bustle to it. Definitely a place you should check out.

      Reply

    1. Yeap. Definitely a great way to cross the Thames. Plus the views are great too. Nearest station is North Greenwich and its just behind so easily accessible.

      Reply

  9. We are going to be spending a lot of time in Greenwich. I just wanted to ask if you can recommend any cutty sark Greenwich restaurants nearby?

    Reply

    1. Samantha, there are so many restaurants near Cutty Sark that its hard to choose. There is the Greenwich market with plenty of food stalls, there are cafes and restaurants to choose from whether you are vegetarian, vegan or meat eater. You will have plenty to try out.

      Reply

  10. Hi Bee, we are going to be exploring Greenwich and probably working through your list of things to do in Greenwich London. Just wanted to check if you know any hotels near Cutty Sark Greenwich? I believe that the Cutty Sark is also close to the Greenwich Museum, right?

    Reply

    1. Hi, yes there are a couple of hotels near Cutty Sark in fact only walking distance. Majority of the things to do in Greenwich are close by as are hotels. There it is a Novotel near Cutty Sark also in terms of getting around and to Greenwich you also have the cutty sark Greenwich pier close by so you can arrive by ferry too.

      Reply

  11. Hey, this is a bit of a random question but would you know if royal museums greenwich venue hire is available for the museum?

    Reply

    1. Hi Than, I dont know if the royal museums greenwich venue hire is possible but I know the Queens House which is next to the Greenwich museum and is just as beautiful, does do venue hire for weddings if thats what you need it for?

      Reply

  12. Hi, I am booking lots of ticket for a group trip. Just wanted to check if you know of any royal museums greenwich discount codes? We are hoping to save some money as we are a group of 20 people.

    Reply

    1. Hi, I cant say I am aware of any site that have royal museums greenwich discount codes but the museum does offer group tickets so you may be able to get some money off.

      Reply

  13. Hi Bee, do you know if we are able to get the royal observatory greenwich tickets in advance?? Thank so much.

    Reply

    1. Hi Rima, I actually not use if you can get the royal observatory greenwich tickets in advance. I have found that this is not really necessary as we the queues are not that bad. Just check the royal observatory greenwich opening times if you are worried about missing out but seriously, you will be fine.

      Reply

  14. Hi Bee, thank your for such an amazing list of things to do in Greenwich. Wondering if you can recommend some free things to do in Greenwich London?

    Reply

    1. Hi, there, many of the things to do in Greenwich village London above are free. The Queens Hours, The Market, The Naval college. Those are all free things to do in Greenwich. There are plenty more things to do in the area including plenty of things to do in Greenwich at night.

      Reply

  15. Stunning pictures! Thanks for sharing all of this information. Traveling from London to the Greenwich Village to see the Eltham Palace and Gardens sounds like a fun adventure, one I’m definitely adding to my itinerary. My trip to London is coming up, so it is timely that I found this article. Do you know of any Greenwich London rentals perfect for short vacations?

    Reply

    1. Hi Sam, yes, have a look at Airbnb and booking.com as there are plenty of rentals in Greenwich that are perfect for a vacation in London. There are amazing flats and apartments in Greenwich to choose from.

      Reply

  16. Just stumbled on your blog while searching for the Greenwich London museum. I had no idea there were plenty of things to do in Greenwich. Just wondering, is Greenwich London safe to visit?

    Reply

    1. Tony, Greenwich is such a beautiful part of London. There are so many things to do in Greenwich and its well worth checking out as you are already searching for details on Greenwich museum. As far as safety, yes, this part of Greenwich is really safe. You can even opt to stay here as it may be cheaper than majority of central places in London. There are plenty of Greenwich London flats and apartments to rent. Plenty of nightlife and touristy things to do in Greenwich. Also easy and quick to get into London via the fast MNBA ferries.

      Reply

  18. I have never been to London before but I am a DIY tourist and all this information is simply incredible. Greenwich is such a beautiful place with so many things to do in Greenwich borough. I would love to visit one this year. When would be the best time of the year?

    Reply

    1. By far the best time to visit London is in the summer when there is little to no rain. Greenwich in London has to be up there with many of the tourist places to visit in London. I am sure you will love it.

      Reply

  19. These are some amazing places that I would love to visit if I were to ever visit Greenwich. The history sites are very beautiful. I like the fact that you not only gave historic information but also some general information that a clueless person like me would want to know.

    Reply

  20. I’m from Greenwich, born and bred (my family’s been here for centuries), although I’ve lived in Italy for many years now. Definitely worth a visit. Just one thing: no local would EVER call it Greenwich Village. Greenwich Village, as far as we’re concerned, is in New York.

    Please come and visit! It’s better off-season. It gets incredibly crowded at Xmas, for example.

    Reply

    1. While most locals dont use that term and (some do), it still does not change the fact that many on the plaques say Greenwich village. Hence my reference of the term. It always seems to anger New Yorkers as if they somehow have the copyright or trademarked the name. Remember that many cities around the world have similar or same names for towns, cities and villages so no need to get your knickers in a twist even if your family was born and bred in Greenwich. The use of Greenwich Village has been made popular in recent years. Not sure if it’s because of the major gentrification offer the recent years to try and make the place seem like its turned a new leaf. Again, as you have been leaving in Italy, some of these things you may not be aware of. I have lived in Greenwich for a long time and even though I have now moved, its only a few bus stops from me.

      Reply

  21. I come back twice a year so I know my Greenwich well. You can quote/put up all the plaques you like: for us locals it’s Greenwich, not Greenwich Village (for tourists only and people not originally from the area).. And you might like to update the bit about the Painted Hall: you have to pay to visit it now.

    Reply

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