The Borough of Greenwich is one of London’s most renowned around the world. A World Heritage site, it is steeped in history and culture, yet home to modern landmarks like the O2 Arena. Famous for its breathtaking architecture and sweeping parkland, Greenwich is a great destination for both tourists and Londoners alike.
Attractions and sights in Greenwich
In and around the instantly recognisable Greenwich Peninsula, a cornerstone of the River Thames landscape, are Greenwich’s parks and maritime buildings rich with British history. Greenwich is home to a number of London attractions such as:
- Royal Observatory, site of the Greenwich Mean Time observations until 1954 and still containing a Prime Meridian line running through it;
- National Maritime Museum, one of the world’s largest maritime museums;
- The Queen’s House, a royal residence in the 17th century;
- Greenwich Royal Park, the oldest Royal Park enjoying panoramic views across the capital
- Cutty Sark; one of only three original 19th century clipper ships with a unique and fascinating history
- Old Royal Navy College, the stunning architectural centrepiece of Maritime Greenwich
- O2 Arena, stage to the world’s biggest music artists and entertainment events
Greenwich Market
Away from Greenwich’s traditional maritime history is Greenwich Market, with a unique history of its own. The present market has been running since the year 1700 – the roof itself is over one hundred years old – though there has actually been a market at Greenwich since the 14th century.
Greenwich Market trades five days-a-week, while local shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs in Greenwich are open at weekends too. The market specialises in unique collectables and boutique sellers, but visitors to the market can expect to find a particular focus of stalls on certain days during the week:
- Wednesdays – food and homewares
- Thursdays – antiques and collectables
- Fridays – arts and craft
The area surrounding Greenwich Market is full of shops and boutiques selling vintage clothes, rarities, handmade items, antiques and collectable. For more information on Greenwich’s vintage shopping, visit our vintage shopping page.
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