Greenwich is home to the National Maritime Museum, the Royal Observatory and the historic Queen's House,as well as offering many other unique attractions and highlights.
When you first arrive in Greenwich, a visit to the Greenwich Visitor Centre will provide you with an introduction to the history and attractions in the Greenwich World Heritage Site. The Visitor Centre is housed in the Pepys Buildings near to the Cutty Sark and Greenwich Hospital and contains exhibits that trace the history of Greenwich as a royal residence and a maritime centre.
The Highlights of Greenwich include:
The Cutty Sark - dating from 1869, was one of the last tea clippers and is now in a dry dock by the side of the Thames. Still displaying its figureheads and original gilded,wooden fittings; it is a particular favourite with children who love exploring the decks and cabins.
Update on The Cutty Sark after the fire Re-opening 2010.
The Cutty Sark suffered a major fire on 21 May 2007. Thankfully, due to heroic fire-fighting there was amazingly little damage to the ship's original material and the Conservation Project will continue with help from The Heritage Lottery Fund and Sammy Ofer. The Cutty Sark Conservation Project is back on course and we can all look forward to its re-opening in Spring 2010.
Greenwich Hospital - formerly the Royal Naval College, was designed by Wren and boasts the magnificent Painted Hall by James Thornhill and St Paul's Chapel.
Greenwich Park was once the grounds of the Royal Palace of Placentia.
National Maritime Museum This is the largest museum of its kind in the world and its galleries on three levels display Britain's seafaring history. In the All Hands gallery, you get the chance to try out your seafaring skills.
Queen's House - designed by Inigo Jones, was the first classical building in England.
The Royal Observatory is sited on the Greenwich Meridian Line.
Transport: Maze Hill (Rail), Cutty Sark (DRL), River services from London Piers.
See: Other London Areas
See: London Travel for getting around London using public transport
