Reconnect with your friends and family against the beautiful backdrop of Royal Greenwich.
After months of staying home, let’s be honest, we’re all in need of a bit of an escape from our mundane, everyday lives. And there’s no better way to do just that, than to pay a visit to the leafy green paradise that is Royal Greenwich. This lovely, historic part of London has so much to offer visitors, from peaceful river cruises, to hidden-gems of the art world, to sky-high views from atop The O2!
Whether you’re in search of a moment of zen with your loved ones, some exhilarating thrills with your friends, or both – there’s something for everyone to enjoy together. And rest assured that all of Greenwich’s attractions, hotels, events, transport and places to eat and drink have been awarded with VisitEngland’s “We’re Good To Go” accreditation for following industry and Government Covid-19 guidance on cleanliness and social distancing. So you can get back to doing the things you love, with the people you love, safely and responsibly!
To help you plan your dream day trip or perfect getaway in this underrated idyll, we’ve rounded up 10 of the best ways for you to Escape The Everyday when you visit Greenwich. Don’t forget to book ahead to make the most of your visit and ensure you get a chance to see these unmissable attractions.
Sign up to the newsletter to stay in the know about what’s on in Greenwich!
1. Visit the Royal Observatory
Tick off one of those iconic London bucket list experiences, by visiting the Royal Observatory in Greenwich and standing with a foot in each hemisphere across the famous Prime Meridian Line! The museum is also home to the UK’s largest refracting telescope, a 4.5 billion year-old asteroid and London’s only planetarium. So, if you’re curious to learn more about how scientists mapped the seas, stars, and time itself, a trip to the Royal Observatory is absolutely essential. You and your family will make incredible memories that are guaranteed to stand the test of time!
2. Captain the Cutty Sark
If you fancy yourself a bit of a dashing Victorian seafarer, you’ve got to check out the Cutty Sark. This 19th century vessel is one of the most famous ships in the world, with towering masts, an iconic copper hull, and 11 miles worth of rigging! The colourful cast of characters on board will help you delve into the ship’s adventures on the high seas, while you take the helm and live out your dreams of being captain. There’s no better way for you and your family to escape the everyday and dive into the depths of your imagination together.
3. Bask in the beauty of the Painted Hall
This hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Maritime Greenwich UNESCO World Heritage Site has been dubbed ‘The Sistine Chapel of England’. And for good reason! This extraordinary hall is an artistic masterpiece and an ode to Baroque design that will take your breath away. It’s a great date spot, but it’s also a lovely place to have a wander and catch up with your friends! And if you pay a visit to the Painted Hall before July 1, you’ll also catch a glimpse of Luke Jerram’s huge, illuminated model of the earth, Gaia, taking centre stage in this magnificent space!
4. Climb up the roof of The O2
In search of a thrill? Why not challenge your mates to a daring walk up the roof of The O2? From the top of this world-famous entertainment venue, you’ll enjoy some incredible 360º views over Greenwich, the Olympic Park, Canary Wharf, the City and beyond! Forget pints in the pub, Up at The O2 is an amazing way to escape the ordinary everyday add a dash of daring to your meet-ups with friends.
5. Climb aboard a relaxing river cruise
Float along the Thames, taking in London’s most beloved sights from a slightly different perspective with City Cruises or Uber Boat by Thames Clippers. From the open upper decks and panoramic windows of a City Cruises boat you can admire the 44 London landmarks between Westminster and Greenwich. We’re taking the London Eye, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, the Shard – all the icons! Enjoy afternoon tea or a spot of lunch as you cruise along with your family and friends, or end the night the right way on a London Showboat Dinner Cruise with your date! Or, for an Uber ride you won’t forget, hope aboard an Uber Boat by Thames Clippers. You’ll be able to soak up your daily dose of vitamin-C out on the breezy open-air decks as you roam along the river in style!
6. Soar across the sky with Emirates Air Line
If heights are more your thing, then you have simply got to take a ride on the Emirates Air Line cable car. It is by far the best way to cross the Thames, and offers unforgettable views of London. Perfect for date night or for a unique bit of fun with your friends. You’ll travel from the Greenwich Peninsula to the Royal Docks in your own little cabin in the clouds and you can play an epic game of I Spy with all the landmarks you can spot from the skies!
7. Live your best Bridgerton life at The Queen’s House
The Queen’s House in Greenwich is famous for many reasons – its former royal occupants, its incredible art collection, and for the ghost that is believed to walk its halls! A visit to this lovely house of delights (which did in fact make a brief appearance in our favorite Netflix Regency romp, Bridgerton) is pretty much guaranteed to impress with a hefty dose of royal charm. You can admire art from the likes of Rembrandt and Gainsborough or get a pic for the ‘gram on the famous Tulip Stairs.
8. Face off with some famous royals at the National Maritime Museum
At the Tudors to Windsors exhibition you’ll be able to get up close and personal to some of Britain’s favourite monarchs. Gaze into the eyes of royals from Henry VII to Elizabeth II, in an art exhibition that features over 150 portraits and spans five centuries of British royalty! You’ll see works from historical court painters but also art from Andy Warhol, and portraits by photography legends Cecil Beaton and Annie Leibovitz.
9. Stretch your legs on a guided tour
Take a Guided Tour of Greenwich to uncover some of the best views, loveliest hidden corners, and most Insta-worthy photo opportunities London has to offer. You’ll see every different side of Greenwich as you roam the green open spaces, ramble down the river paths, and wander the urban trails. These relaxed tours are the perfect way to stretch your legs, see the sights, and rediscover your sense of freedom while you reunite with your loved ones this summer.
‘Good To Go’ Covid-19 social distancing and safety measures will be in operation at venues, following government guidance. Sign up to the Visit Greenwich newsletter here to stay up to date on all events and activities.