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Looking for the best things to do in Greenwich, London?
Greenwich is one of my favourite parts of London – a mix of riverside charm, history, and incredible views. Having lived in London for years, I’ve been to Greenwich more times than I can count – even on Christmas Day, when the park was almost completely empty.
In this local guide, I’ll take you through the 15 best things to do in Greenwich, London, plus insider tips on where to eat, how to get there, and the tours and tickets worth booking in advance. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, you’ll find plenty here to make your day unforgettable.
How to Get to Greenwich: Boat & Tube
One of the best ways to start your day in Greenwich is by boat. Sure, you can hop on the Tube or take the DLR (Docklands Light Railway), but the most scenic option is cruising along the Thames. You’ll pass landmarks like Tower Bridge and Canary Wharf before arriving at Greenwich Pier, just steps from the Cutty Sark.
To make life easier, you can book a return ticket that takes you back to Westminster Pier later in the day, with flexible departure times to suit your schedule. It’s a relaxed, memorable way to travel and gives you some of the best river views in London along the way.
Book your River Thames boat tickets to Greenwich!
Cruise past London’s most iconic landmarks and arrive in Greenwich relaxed and ready to explore. Book your Thames boat tickets here.
Why You Should Visit Greenwich?
Greenwich is one of London’s most unique neighbourhoods, with a mix of maritime history, leafy parks, little markets, and riverside views. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s home to famous landmarks like the Royal Observatory and the Cutty Sark, but it has a relaxed, almost suburban feel compared to central London.
Whether you’re here for a couple of hours or a full day, there is so much to do in Greenwich, from museums and interesting architecture to great pubs, food stalls, and one of the best skyline views in the city. It’s an area that appeals to both first-time visitors and locals looking for a slight change of pace.
Greenwich Highlights!
Best thing to do overall: Stand on the Prime Meridian Line at the Royal Observatory.
Best free thing to do: Wander the National Maritime Museum or enjoy the views from Greenwich Park.
Best thing to do in the evening: See a show or dine at Mamma Mia! The Party inside The O2.
Best hidden gem: The Fan Museum – small, quirky, and unlike anything else in London.
Best for families: Step aboard the Cutty Sark — kids love all the exploring.
Best foodie stop: Grab a pastry from Paul Rhodes Bakery or street food at Greenwich Market.
Best photo spot: The Painted Hall for dramatic interiors, or the skyline view from the top of Greenwich Park.
15 Best Things to Do in Greenwich
From world-famous landmarks to riverside strolls and hidden gems, Greenwich packs a lot into one neighbourhood. Here are the very best things to do in Greenwich, whether you’re visiting for the first time or a local looking to explore.
1. Visit the Royal Observatory Greenwich & Stand on the Prime Meridian Line
The Royal Observatory is one of Greenwich’s most famous landmarks. It’s the home of Greenwich Mean Time and the Prime Meridian Line, where you can literally stand with one foot in the eastern hemisphere and the other in the west.
Inside, you’ll find interesting astronomy exhibits and plenty of telescopes, plus views over Greenwich Park and the London skyline. Book your Royal Observatory tickets here.
2. Take in the Views from Greenwich Park (Best London Skyline Spot)
No trip to Greenwich is complete without a walk through Greenwich Park. I always make the climb up to the hilltop whenever I visit — the sweeping view over the Royal Naval College, Canary Wharf, and the City of London never gets old. It’s one of the best skyline views in the capital and a perfect spot to pause with a coffee.
3. Explore Greenwich Market – Food, Antiques & Local Crafts
Greenwich Market is always buzzing, with a mix of street food stalls, antiques, and independent makers selling everything from jewellery to art prints. I like to pop in whenever I’m nearby – usually for a Crosstown doughnut (not unique to the market, but always a fun treat between browsing the stalls!). It’s a great spot to wander, snack, and pick up a cute and quirky souvenir.
4. Step Aboard the Cutty Sark Ship Museum
The Cutty Sark is one of Greenwich’s most iconic sights — a historic tea clipper that was once the fastest sailing ship in the world. Today it’s a fascinating museum where you can step aboard, explore the decks, and even walk beneath the ship’s gleaming copper hull.
It’s especially great for kids, with plenty of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities to bring its history to life. Book your Cutty Sark entrance tickets here.
5. Discover the National Maritime Museum (Free Entry)
The National Maritime Museum is one of my favourite spots in Greenwich — you really can’t go wrong with a place that’s both fascinating and free. It’s packed with stories of Britain’s seafaring past, from epic voyages to naval battles, and there are plenty of interactive displays that make it fun for all ages.
Whether you spend half an hour or a whole afternoon, it’s always worth a visit and make sure not to miss the massive ‘ship in a bottle’ sculpture outside the Sammy Ofer Wing.
6. Wander the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich
The Old Royal Naval College is one of the most beautiful pieces of architecture in London, with grand courtyards, riverside colonnades, and elegant domes that make it a joy to explore. It’s also a popular filming location. You might recognise it from Pirates of the Caribbean, The Crown, or Les Misérables. Strolling through the grounds is completely free, and it’s the perfect place to soak up Greenwich’s historic charm.
7. See the Painted Hall – the “Sistine Chapel of London”
Inside the Old Royal Naval College is the Painted Hall, often called the “Sistine Chapel of London.” Its vast ceiling and wall murals are a masterpiece of baroque art, telling stories of kings, queens, and mythological figures in jaw-dropping detail. It’s one of those places that makes you stop and stare. Book your Painted Hall tickets here.
8. Visit the Queen’s House (Free Art & Architecture)
The Queen’s House is a bit of a hidden gem in Greenwich. A beautifully preserved 17th-century royal villa that’s now home to an impressive collection of art. It’s free to visit, and the striking architecture is reason enough to pop in. I love it for a quiet moment away from the crowds and a dose of history and culture.
9. Discover the Fan Museum – A Hidden Greenwich Gem
Tucked away on a quiet street, the Fan Museum is another one of Greenwich’s hidden gems. It’s the only museum in the world dedicated to the history of fans, with a low-key fascinating collection that spans centuries of design and craftsmanship. If you’ve seen the main Greenwich landmarks before, this little spot offers something completely different. Plus, the Orangery café inside is a lovely place to pause for a drink.
10. Take a Thames River Boat Trip to Greenwich
Arriving in Greenwich by boat is an experience in itself. You’ll cruise past Tower Bridge, St. Paul’s, and Canary Wharf before stepping off right by the Cutty Sark. Even if you’ve already seen it as a way to get here, it’s worth highlighting as one of the best things to do in Greenwich. Book your Thames River boat tickets here.
11. Walk Through the Greenwich Foot Tunnel Under the Thames
The Greenwich Foot Tunnel is a quirky London experience. It’s a Victorian tunnel that runs right under the River Thames, linking Greenwich with the Isle of Dogs. I cycled through it a few times during lockdown as a way to get to Greenwich Park without using public transport (though technically, you’re not actually allowed to cycle inside!).
It’s free, slightly eerie, and a fun alternative route if you fancy something a little different.
12. Ride the IFS Cloud Cable Car for Views of London & The O2
For a different perspective on London, hop on the IFS Cloud Cable Car. The ride takes you high above the Thames with great views of the O2, Canary Wharf, and even out towards the Olympic Park on a clear day. It’s a short trip but a memorable one, and especially fun at sunset when the city starts to glow. Book your cable car tickets here.
13. Visit The O2 Arena & Try the Up at the O2 Climb
The O2 is more than just a concert venue – it’s a hub of restaurants, bars, and entertainment that’s worth a visit when you’re in Greenwich. For something unforgettable, you can take on Up at the O2. It’s a guided climb across the arena roof with sweeping views over the Thames and Canary Wharf. Book your Up at the O2 tickets here.
I’ve also been to Mamma Mia! The Party here, and it was such a fun experience. Part musical, part immersive dinner show, there is plenty of singing, dancing, and Greek food to keep the energy high. It’s something a little bit different, and I’d definitely recommend if you’re looking for something lively and memorable.
14. Eat Your Way Through Greenwich’s Bakeries & Cafés
Greenwich has no shortage of delicious food. My favourite spot is Paul Rhodes Bakery – I can never resist their pastries. You’ll also find plenty of independent cafés dotted along the high street if you fancy a coffee break. A little self-guided bakery tour is the perfect way to recharge between sightseeing stops.
15. Find Deer & Hidden Corners in Greenwich Park
If you explore Greenwich Park, you’ll find quieter paths, flower gardens, and even a small herd of deer. It’s one of my favourite things about the park; no matter how many times I visit, there’s always a new corner to discover.
Best Greenwich Tours & Tickets to Book in Advance
Booking a tour or ticket in advance can save you time and guarantee entry, especially at Greenwich’s most popular attractions.
Royal Museums Greenwich Day Pass
If you want to see everything Greenwich has to offer without worrying about separate tickets, the Royal Museums Greenwich Day Pass is the way to go. It includes entry to the Royal Observatory (where you can stand on the Prime Meridian), the Cutty Sark, the Queen’s House, and the fascinating National Maritime Museum.
It’s a brilliant option if you’re planning a full day in Greenwich and want to explore at your own pace while saving money along the way. Book your combined day pass here.
Greenwich Highlights Private Tour
The Greenwich Highlights Private Tour gives you a guided walk through the area’s best sites. These include the Painted Hall at the Old Royal Naval College, the Royal Observatory, and the National Maritime Museum. You’ll even stop for a coffee break before browsing Greenwich Market and stepping aboard the Cutty Sark.
With all entry fees included and small groups capped at six, this is a fantastic choice if you want to dive deeper into Greenwich’s history with a knowledgeable local guide. Book your private tour here.
Where to Stay in Greenwich – Best Hotels & Apartments
The Mitre by Innkeeper’s Collection
A cosy, character-filled hotel right in the heart of Greenwich, just minutes from the park and Cutty Sark. With comfy rooms, a pub and a garden, it’s a charming and authentic place to stay. Check prices and availability here.
InterContinental at The O2
For five-star luxury, the InterContinental offers spacious rooms with Thames views, a spa, and direct access to The O2 arena. Perfect if you’re after a stylish and indulgent base. Check prices and availability here.
Round Up: Best Things to Do in Greenwich, London!
Greenwich really does have it all: history, views, markets, museums, and plenty of hidden corners to explore. From standing on the Prime Meridian to climbing the O2, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences here. Whether you come for a day trip or make a weekend of it, Greenwich is definitely one of the best areas of London to explore.
