Area Guide - Greenwich

2023-03-23

Area Guide

Known for being one of the capital’s most beautiful boroughs, Greenwich is becoming increasingly popular as more-and-more visitors discover its breathtaking riverside views, rich history and a range of unique attractions that all add up to a thoroughly grand day out.

Home to the O2 arena, the district also has a rich maritime history and gives its name to Greenwich Meridian (0% longitude) and Greenwich Mean Time. Simply put, there’s a line here that divides the eastern and western hemispheres of the Earth. It also became a Royal Borough in 2012 to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and is a UNESCO world heritage site thanks to scientific, artistic and architectural achievements that date back as far as the 17th century. So, to celebrate one of London’s most charming districts, we’re going to take a look at what’s on offer: 

O2 Arena

For many, the O2 Arena has meant visiting Greenwich for the first time, only to then discover just how much more there is going on locally. However, this doesn’t alter how culturally significant this venue has become since its opening in 2007. Because despite regularly showcasing the very best in musical talent - everyone from Elton John, and Billie Elish to The Rolling Stones - there’s also a cinema, designer shopping and a range of superb bars and restaurants, there to ensure you really do have the night of your life. 

Some of the excellent eateries here include the balcony dining lounge at Gaucho, the luxury gelato at Snowflake and the superb udon bowls at Marugame. And, if you can summon the energy, you can even climb the O2 roof and take in the truly breathtaking views across the city. 

Greenwich Park 

Free to enter, Greenwich Park is a mix of expansive 17th-century landscapes, bucolic gardens and incredible wildlife, making it the perfect space to step away and take a break from the rigours of everyday life. You can stand on the Prime Meridian, the very point from which Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) is measured, then follow in the footsteps of England’s Kings and Queens by taking a stroll amongst the ancient oak trees, before stopping for coffee and a snack at the Pavillion Cafe. Situated on the banks of the Thames, there’s also cricket, tennis, Tai Chi and children’s playgrounds and play sessions. This is where the community comes to unwind, take the air, exercise and get back to nature. One of London’s most resonant and impressive green spaces. 

The Royal Museums of Greenwich 

Greenwich’s rich history has been preserved by its Royal Museums, which easily rank as some of the finest in the country. For instance, The Cutty Sark is one of the world’s most famous ships and the last tea clipper in existence, so being able to actually climb aboard and take a look around is nothing short of incredible. Exploring its upper and lower decks, climbing its rigging or even taking the helm really is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and comes highly recommended.

Then, of course, there’s the Royal Observatory, which is situated on the top of a hill in Greenwich Park. Built by Sir Christopher Wren in 1675, it’s home to London’s only planetarium and the Prime Meridian Line, the UK’s largest refracting telescope. Meanwhile, a visit to The National Maritime Museum means a deep dive into Britain’s maritime history, with a series of stunning galleries guaranteed to capture your imagination, taking you on a unique, riveting voyage of discovery.     

Food for Thought 

Our top picks for eating out in Greenwich:

Champagne + Fromage 

This classic French bistro is an established favourite with residents and visitors alike. Here, you’ll find amazing cheese, meats and fizz at refreshingly low prices, all served in a warm, convivial atmosphere with extra nibbles and tapas thrown in for good measure. Wonderfully rich, the Cancoillotte Fondue is the stuff dreams are made of. 

Goddards at Greenwich 

The great London pie is a tradition that goes back centuries and Goddards at Greenwich have taken it and turned it into fine art, creating steak, chicken, vegan and vegetarian classics that really are a taste sensation. Add mashed potato and gravy and this is comfort food taken to the next level. They also do a bread and butter pudding that’s simply out of this world. 

Zaibatsu 

Often referred to as Greenwich’s best-kept secret, Zaibatsu might be unassuming from the outside, but inside they create exquisite Japanese cuisine that’s really worth talking about. From their Wasabi Mayo Prawns to the beef Tataki, every dish has such authenticity you feel as though you’ve discovered something really quite special.

The Hill 

If you’re in the mood for fresh Mediterranean cuisine given a flamboyant, Latin American spin, The Hill has got you covered. This is warm, welcoming fare that’s moreish, vibrant and has the kind of generosity of spirit that keeps people coming back for more. The traditional Ecuadorian lamb is a real speciality, as is their classic Tiramisu. 

Getting Around

Greenwich is extremely well served by a range of different transport links, including the Jubilee line at North Greenwich station, the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) and the IFS  Cloud Cable Car. There’s also a range of excellent jogging, cycling and walking routes. 

Living in Greenwich

A wonderful place to call home, Greenwich features a range of luxurious living environments that provide its residents with the very best quality of life. Among these is Greenwich Peninsula, an outstanding riverside development that offers five-star facilities, and complete privacy, yet sits right at the heart of this much-loved part of the city. We currently have a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment available to rent. For more information click here!