More About Greenwich

Greenwich is a place of contrasts; from awe-inspiring architecture, tranquil open spaces and breathtaking views to cosy pubs and bustling street markets, it is one of the most pleasant corners of London. A stay in any Greenwich hotel will prove a real treat.

Greenwich - Where Time Begins

One of London's most historic areas, Greenwich is a World Heritage Site most famous for being the home of the Meridian Line, the source of what is known worldwide as Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). This line is there for all to see running through the centre of the marvellous Royal Observatory, Britain's first purpose-built scientific research facility.

Many thousands of people queue up each year to stand with one foot either side of the line, thus finding themselves on both sides of the world simultaneously. However, if you want to avoid the queues you will find the same line continues to run outside the main building, and can be found about 20ft around the side of the observatory.

It is also home to the hugely popular Planetarium, where real footage shot from actual spacecraft is enhanced with CGI technology to create a visual spectacular that is sure to enthral all ages. The many exhibitions inside deal with many different aspects of space exploration and the solar system, a real treat for all the family.

The observatory was constructed by King Charles II in 1675, and sits in the middle of stunning Greenwich Park, which has been owned by royalty since 1427. Henry VIII was born here, and married two of his six wives in Greenwich Palace. You can find out more about Greenwich Park on our London blog.

Greenwich and the High Seas

The National Maritime Museum is the second superb attraction to populate the park, and its origins stem from a royal argument. When James I's wife Anne accidentally shot one of his dogs, the King was so angry that he allegedly swore at her in front of all his friends. To make amends, he presented her with Greenwich Park as a gift.

Anne immediately set about commisioning a home for herself in the park, a task she delegated to renowned architect Inigo Jones. Unfortunately, Anne died before it was finished, but the building lives on today in the form of this interesting slice of London's naval history.

Visitors will find various exhibitions, including displays of artefacts recovered from ocean voyages, a look at the history of London as a port and a variety of artwork with a seafaring theme.

Both of the park's museums are free to enter and open from 10am-5pm, but special exhibitions and the Planetarium will command a small extra fee. It is certainly worth seeking out a Greenwich hotel that is close to the park, as you can happily spend many hours exploring these attractions.

Outside the Park

Greenwich is also home to the famous tea clipper Cutty Sark, which travelled the world bringing wool from Australia along the tea route to China. Contrary to popular belief, she was never the fastest tea clipper at sea, for poor weather conditions and bad luck scuppered her chances. 1872 was the closest she came, but a broken rudder saw her surrender a 400-mile lead and end up beaten home by rival ship Thermopylae. She has stood in Greenwich since 1954.

With a vibrant atmosphere, Greenwich Market is regarded as one of the best in London. A range of stalls selling original artworks, fashions and fresh food are open Tuesday-Sunday from 10am-5:30pm.

You may want also want to visit some of the local entertainment, including the excellent Greenwich Theatre and the instantly recognisable O2 Arena. If live comedy is your perfect night out, then Up the Creek is one of the longest running comedy clubs in London.

Getting to Greenwich

Access to Greenwich is fairly simple. If you are heading to the O2 arena, it is best to take the tube to North Greenwich on the Jubilee Line, which takes just 20 minutes from central London. If you want to reach the park, you would be better off taking the Docklands Light Railway, which leaves the city from either Bank or Tower Gateway and drops you at the top of the park at Cutty Sark station.

Alternatively, you can take the train from Charing Cross, London Bridge, Cannon Street or Waterloo East and alight at New Cross, which is just a short walk from the park, or Greenwich. Better still, for a truly entertaining look at London, take a Thames Clipper ferry between Greenwich Pier and Embankment Pier in Westminster. Tickets are £6 for adults, £3 for children under 15.

Hotels in Greenwich

The picturesque setting of Greenwich Park is marvellously complemented by a collection of welcoming guest houses dotted around the area, such as Clarendon Blackheath and De Vere Venues Devonport House. If you are planning a trip to the O2 Arena, the best idea is to try and get in early at The Pilot Inn, a lovely pub and hotel combo situated comfortably within walking distance of the venue.

Greenwich Pubs and Bars

If you are looking for a traditional pub in Greenwich then you must visit the Cutty Sark Tavern, an old 18th century pub with great views overlooking the River Thames. Alternatively, Trafalgar Tavern was built in 1837 and has high windows that afford another pleasant view of the river. The pub was reportedly also visited by Charles Dickens several times.

If you are looking for somewhere a little more modern, try The Admiral Hardy with its great range of beers and comfy sofas. There is also the superb Greenwich Tavern overlooking the park.

Greenwich Restaurants

Greenwich has a wide range of restaurants that cater to different tastes including Mexican, Thai, Chinese, Indian, Japanese and Italian. One of the best-known restaurants in Greenwich is the Rivington Bar & Grill on Greenwich High Road, serving traditional British food prepared with locally sourced ingredients.

If you prefer Asian cuisine you could try the Thai restaurant Kum Luang, Noodle Time or Saigon, which offers Vietnamese cuisine. There is also Tae Won Mein, which is excellent value for money. The luxury of all these great restaurants so close to your Greenwich hotel will make you want to eat out every night during your stay.

Greenwich Parking

If you are planning on bringing your car to London, the good thing about Greenwich is that it is a little outside the city centre, meaning driving is less streesful. However, if your Greenwich hotel does not provide parking, we suggest one of two NCP options. You could park at North Greenwich station (SE10 0PH) for just £8 a day, or leave your car on the other side of the river at City Harbour (E14 9GL) for £12 a night and hop back and forth on the Docklands Light Railway as required. Alternatively, if you choose De Vere Venues Devonport House for your stay, you will enjoy free parking.

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