In this article, I present the Greenwich districtknown for its maritime heritage and superb views over central London.
Here you'll find
- A presentation of Greenwich
- What to see and do in the area
- How to reach him easily
- Practical information: prices, opening hours, visit tips
- Things to see and do in the area
- And much more!
If you're looking for information about Greenwich, you'll love this article.
Follow the guide!
Greenwich: article summary
Greenwich: a meridian, ships and a magnificent view Â
Visit Greenwich district is in east London, right next to the Isle of Dogs. Canary Wharf. If the name rings a bell, that's understandable, as this is the location of the Greenwich meridian, the international reference for defining time, with its longitude equal to 0°.
But it's also a lively neighborhoodwith several Unesco World Heritage monuments. Here it is!
Introduction to the Greenwich district
In the 15th century, Greenwich was a royal citywhich included Placentia Palace, destroyed in the 17th century to become Greenwich Hospital and then the Old Royal Naval College that can be visited today.
This small town, which was not yet part of London, was the birthplace of several major sovereigns (including Henry VII and the Queen Elizabeth I) and a choice area for sailors over the centuries, thanks to its position on the banks of the Thames.
In the space of just 3 hours, we show you the the best of the historic center of London (must-sees + secret spots) with a French-speaking guide just for you.
The district is now divided into three main zones - the riverfront, the Georgian/Victorian center and Greenwich Park, one of the world's largest parks of the capital.
I invite you to discover it, for its peace and quiet, its listed buildings and the panoramic view it offers over London!
Facts and figures about this district Â
- Greenwich has only been part of London since 1889 (when it became part of the borough of Kent) and became autonomous in 1965
- Until 1917, there was a railway station in Greenwich Park, but it closed due to low passenger numbers.
- Several films have been shot in Greenwich, including Pirates of the Caribbean 4, Thor: The Dark World or the hilarious 4 weddings and a funeral
- A pedestrian tunnel links Greenwich to the nearby Isle of Dogs, and is used by over 1.5 million people every year!
What can you see and do in Greenwich?
Although a little out of the way, Greenwich is nonetheless a very pleasant neighborhood to walk around, with plenty of points of interest. Here are the must-sees!
See the Greenwich meridian
It is possible to visit the origin meridianThe Royal Observatory is located in Greenwich Park. After a slight climb through the park, you'll be able to take a photo in front of the monument at longitude 0.
From this park, the view of the London Skyline is sensational!
Climb aboard the Cutty Sark
Visit Cutty Sark is an emblematic ship, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. It was used to bring tea (mainly) from China to meet the needs of the English population.
Now transformed into a museumIt can be visited by both sailing enthusiasts and history buffs.
- Address: King William Walk, London SE10 9HT
Visit the National Maritime Museum
Visit National Maritime Museum in London is one of the largest museums of its kind in the world. It brings together models, paintings and a variety of objects relating to ships and to Britain's rich maritime history, for a true voyage on the waves without leaving land.
The immersion is total, between the sound of the waves interactive activities that will delight the youngest. And it's totally free!
- Address: Romney Road, London SE10 9NF
Discover Queen's House
Just a stone's throw from the National Maritime Museum, you'll find this former royal palace built between 1614 and 1617. Its architecture, innovative for its time, is said to have been inspired by the Villa Medici in Poggio a Caiano, Tuscany.
The visit (free of charge!) is well worth it, for the masterpieces housed here. queen's house and for the superb spiral staircase (the Tulip Stairs), the first of its kind in the UK!
Admire the Baroque art of the Old Royal Naval College
This immense space (on which the above-mentioned Queen's house and National Maritime Museum) was a school for Royal Navy officers between 1873 and 1998.
You can now visit its interiors, and admire its sublime painted hallYou can also visit the former chapel, the famous Admiral Nelson's bedroom, or one of the many temporary exhibitions on maritime themes that regularly take place in the building.
The perfect way to 600 History of the United Kingdom a fascinating visit.
- Address: University of Greenwich, London, SE10 9NN
- Rates: adults - £15.00 / free for under 16s
Shopping at Greenwich Market
While it does not claim to compete with the Portobello Road marketThis Greenwich Market is nonetheless a very friendly market. Some forty stalls are set up from Tuesday to Sunday, 8am to 6pm, with independent designers, antiques and street food!
The a lively zonewith cafés and restaurantsA pleasant place to stroll.
Climb to the top of the O2 Arena
To enjoy one of the best views of London from the east end of the city, you can reach the top of the concert hall. O2 Arena. Opened in 2000, the Millennium Dome is the largest dome in the world.
You can climb up to 52 meters highYou'll have to walk on canvas footbridges with a guide. It's best not to be afraid of heights!
- Address: Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX
- Prices: from 40 euros
How do I get to Greenwich in London?
There are several convenient ways to get to Greenwich:
- With the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to Cutty Sark or Greenwich stop
- With a river shuttle getting off at Greenwich Pier
- By busNo. 53, 54, 177, 180, 188, 199, 202, 286, 380 and 386
- With a London cab
Greenwich: visit tips and practical information
There are many to London districts to visit first. In fact, Greenwich may not be a must-see during your stay in the capital.
However, those who take the time to discover it will find a less panic-stricken area than the center with its main monumentsfor a welcome break.
As a family, it's an interesting choice, with fun museums and large green spacesand a lively center. And it's sure to be a must-see for everyone! ship fans and enthusiasts of the era of the great maritime explorations.
Good to know If you're looking for an unusual activity in Greenwich, it's possible to take Afternoon Tea in the basement of the Cutty Sark ship!
What to see and do in the area?
Here are a few suggestions for continuing your discovery of London, from this charming district of Greenwich:
- Cross to Canary Wharf to visit the London Docklands Museum. You'll also discover the characteristic skyscrapers of this district, which now competes with The City !
- Head southwest towards Peckhamto discover this trendy district with its many ethnic influences!
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