From maritime museums to green spaces, there’s plenty for families to see and do in this Royal Borough
Whether it’s by riverboat, train, Tube or the DLR, there are many ways to get to Greenwich. And there are plenty of reasons to visit, too.
Think cute shops, markets, museums, parks and sublime views of London.
Admire painted mythological creatures and watch a planetarium show
Greenwich has a wealth of museums and art spaces to explore. Entry is free at the National Maritime Museum, save for select exhibitions, and kids will want to see the Ahoy! Children’s Gallery, where they can roam an interactive boatyard.
Be sure to visit the Old Royal Naval College, especially for the amazing Painted Hall — it’s covered in images depicting figures of kings, queens and mythological creatures — and its trail for families, which comes with sensory backpacks to better understand the paintings through puzzles and games.
No trip to Greenwich is complete without a visit to the Royal Observatory Greenwich, of course; its planetarium shows (such as a virtual expedition to Mars) are guaranteed to be a hit with the kids.
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Wander around the parks and delve into Greenwich’s maritime history
Offering splendid London vistas, the capital’s oldest enclosed Royal Park, Greenwich Park, is home to the famous Prime Meridian line at the Royal Observatory; the line is where the east and west hemispheres meet, and forms part of the Maritime Greenwich UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within 183 acres of landscaped parkland, you’ll also find a great play park for the kids, a boating lake, rose and herb gardens, and even roaming deer.
For more green spaces, visit Eltham Palace and Gardens, an English Heritage property just a 10-minute drive from Greenwich. Kids will love the trail inspired by the Courtauld family’s pet lemur, plus there are 19 acres of gardens to run wild in, and an outdoor play area.
Those looking to delve into Greenwich’s maritime history should hop on an Uber Boat by Thames Clippers. These are a cool way to navigate Greenwich and its connecting areas. You’ll also go through the grand Thames Barrier between Greenwich and Woolwich.
Fancy lunch, dinner or afternoon tea on board a boat? Book a seat on City Cruises, to see sights along the Thames, as well as Greenwich itself. Inland, the Cutty Sark (launched in 1869), invites kids to discover what life was like aboard the era’s fastest ship — children over 10 can climb the rigging (but book before).
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Climb the O2 and grab a bite at Greenwich Market
The Greenwich Peninsula is just an eight-minute river trip from Greenwich to North Greenwich pier, via Uber Boat by Thames Clippers. It’s home to The O2 that houses the Arena (check schedules to see what’s on at the time of your visit), as well as designer outlet shops, a cinema, bowling and trampoline spaces, and bars and restaurants. You can climb over the roof of the O2 or ride on the London Cable Car to see the capital from above. The Crazy Putt Adventure Golf’s 18-hole course is also a must.
Finally, for food, crafts and gifts, head back to Greenwich Market — its international food court is the place to be for tasty treats. Children will love the stalls filled with brownies and mini pancakes, perfect after a jam-packed day of exploring.
To discover more amazing events, historic sights and cool family activities to engage in in Greenwich, check out visitgreenwich.org.uk
