London/Greenwich

Greenwich is a district of great historic importance. The area is home to a number of world-renowned visitor attractions - the Cutty Sark, National Maritime Museum, Old Royal Naval College and Greenwich Observatory are all frequently used to promote London as a travel destination. The Old Royal Naval College is often used by film crews - especially to represent grand British settings and for period films - due to its grand English Baroque-style architecture.
Despite being close to central London, Greenwich's large park, open spaces and riverside setting can make the area feel like it is a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The town centre brings together in one place many of the elements that attract visitors to London in the first place - historic sites, fascinating museums, traditional buildings and stunning views. This makes the area popular with tourists - particularly in the summer, when both visitors and Londoners take advantage of the good weather by relaxing in Greenwich Park (with stunning views of the city) and walking along the riverfront. Throughout the year, the popular Greenwich Market attracts visitors keen to pick up souvenirs and local art or grab street food. Outside of the town centre, there are a number of attractions dotted around the largely residential borough.

History

The history that attracts visitors dates back centuries - Greenwich has been inhabited since the Roman times, although it existed as nothing more than a small fishing town for many years. In the medieval era, kings visited the area to hunt and a royal hunting lodge was sited in Greenwich since at least the year 1300 during the rule of Edward I. Subsequent monarchs continued to visit the area and the grand Palace of Placentia, surrounded by the Royal Park, was built on the site of what is now the Old Royal Naval College in 1447. The palace had great historical importance as the birthplace of Henry VIII and his daughters Mary I and Elizabeth I. The palace played a key role in the lives of these Tudor monarchs - for Henry it became his principal London seat and it was the site from which Elizabeth planned the Spanish Armada campaign in 1588. The presence of the palace led to Greenwich being chosen as the site for the Royal Observatory, which led to the establishment of Greenwich Mean Time as an internationally recognised standard.
The palace fell into disrepair after the English Civil War and was eventually demolished, with plans to build a new grand palace. These plans were only partially realised and were eventually incorporated into plans for the construction of a grand Royal Naval Hospital, which later became the Royal Naval College between 1873 and 1998. The College, the important advancements in navigation developed at the Royal Observatory and the location of Greenwich as a safe anchorage in the river have all contributed to the area's naval heritage. In recognition of this, the National Maritime Museum was established in the town in 1937 and the famous Cutty Sark tea-clipper was docked in Greenwich as a museum ship in 1954.
During the industrial revolution, Greenwich sat at the at the heart of London's docklands - once the world's largest port. Large parts of the Borough of Greenwich along the river outside of the town centre were taken over for industrial use, and factories and warehouses lined the banks of the River Thames. Redevelopment of these former industrial sites has been kinder to Greenwich than many parts of the London Docklands, although Greenwich Peninsula is still home to unused and abandoned former industrial space. Part of this redevelopment saw Greenwich Peninsula chosen as the site for the construction of the Millenium Dome (now the O2 Arena), which housed a major exhibition celebrating the beginning of the third millenium.
As part of Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012, it was announced that the Borough of Greenwich would gain Royal Borough status - recognising the area's historic links with the Royal Family. Also in 2012, Greenwich was a venue for the Olympic and Paralympic Games - with the O2 Arnea hosting basketball and gymnastic events and Greenwich Park hosting equestrian events and the modern pentathlon.

Tourist Information Centre

• Greenwich Tourist Information Centre

  phone: +44 870 608 2000 (premium rate number from mobiles)
  address: Pepys House, 2 Cutty Sark Gdns, SE10 9LW
  The same building houses a permanent exhibition on the history of Maritime Greenwich.

Greenwich is 5½ miles east of central London, on the south bank of the River Thames. Because of congestion driving is not recommended, but there are multiple ways of getting to Greenwich from central London by public transport.
Greenwich town centre is best accessed by DLR, National Rail or riverboat services (note: Greenwich station and Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich station are two separate stations, approximately 10 minutes walk apart). Visitors to Blackheath should travel via National Rail. Visitors to Greenwich Peninsula should use the tube.

By boat

Several companies run river tour boats from central London piers at Westminster Bridge, the Millennium Wheel and the Tower of London, to Greenwich Pier which is adjacent to Greenwich town centre and within walking distance of the all the main attractions. £6-8; 33% discount to Travelcard holders.
Thames Clippers commuter service offers an infrequent service, but is quicker and better value (£4.55, 33% off for Travelcard holders).

By Docklands Light Railway (DLR)

This automated rail system runs from central London terminals at Tower Gateway (a short walk from Tower Hill station) and Bank (with interchange to the London Underground). Catch a train bound for Lewisham and get off at Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich station in the town centre. Because there is no driver on these trains and most of the route is elevated, riding at the front of the train affords a fantastic view of east London. Travelcards valid.

By rail

For Greenwich town centre

Greenwich station (travelcard zones 2/3, with connections to the DLR) is the nearest National Rail station to the centre of Greenwich, a ten minute walk to the town centre. Train services are a quick option for getting into Greenwich from central London - journey times between Greenwich and London Bridge stations (zone 1, with connections to the London Underground) are just 8 minutes. Travelcards are valid on all services.
Weekday services are:

• Four trains per hour in each direction to/from Cannon Street station. Train calls at London Bridge and Deptford. Services operated by Southeastern Railway.
• Two trains per hour in each direction to/from Luton Airport station, via central London. Train calls at stations including St Pancras International, London Farringdon, City Thameslink, Blackfriars, London Bridge and Deptford. Services operated by Thameslink.

Services can be less frequent at the weekend and can be amended or cancelled altogether due to planned engineering works. It is advisable to check weekend services in advance on the National Rail website or with staff at any railway station.

For Blackheath

National Rail services to (zone 3) are the main way to visit Blackheath village. On weekdays, four trains per hour in either direction serve the station from Charing Cross station (in London's West End) - calling at Waterloo East, London Bridge and Lewisham. Services operated by Southeastern Railway.

By Tube

The London Underground's Jubilee line serves North Greenwich station (zones 2/3), which primarily caters for visitors to the O2 Arena on the Greenwich Peninsula. The station is a 20-minute bus ride away from Greenwich town centre (bus route 188) so visitors to Greenwich's main attractions are better off taking DLR, National Rail or riverboat services to Cutty Sark station, Greenwich station or Greenwich Pier instead. It is possible, however, to walk from here along the Thames Path to Greenwich town centre in about 45 minutes, although this route includes a stretch of industrial land.

Most visitors to Greenwich will remain within the town centre, where all attractions are within easy walking distance of each other and both the Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich DLR station and Greenwich Pier. Note that the Royal Observatory is up a short but steep hill.
Further afield, travelling between destinations within the Royal Borough of Greenwich is best accomplished by bus or rail, depending on your location.

Greenwich town centre is the home of several interesting tourist attractions. The combination of Greenwich Park, the Royal Observatory, the Queens House and the Royal Naval College make up Maritime Greenwich, which is a site on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Outside of this core area, there are further attractions across the wider Royal Borough of Greenwich.

Maritime Greenwich

• The Cutty Sark

  phone: +44 20 8858-3445
  address: King William Walk
  A preserved tea and wool clipper built in 1869 which set the record for passage from Australia under sail. The ship was damaged by fire on 21 May 2007, but much of the ship's structure and rigging had already been removed as a conservation and renovation project had been underway since 2006. The site reopened in 2012 with changes to the display of the ship including raising the entire vessel so that now visitors can walk the underneath.

• The Fan Museum

  phone: +44 20 8305-1441
  address: 12 Croom's Hill, SE10 8ER
  The world's largest fan museum, for those who are big fans of fans.

• Greenwich ParkSituated on a hill rising up from Greenwich town centre, the park offers impressive views from the hilltop across the River Thames to Docklands and the City of London. The park also provides a setting for several historic buildings, including the Royal Observatory, the old Royal Naval College, the National Maritime Museum and the Queen's House.

• The National Maritime Museum

  phone: +44 20 8858-4422
  address: Romney Rd, SE10 9NF
  Contains the UK's national collection of Maritime artefacts (although do not expect much in the way of whole ships). One of the buildings housing the museum is the Queens House, built by Inigo Jones as the first Palladian building in England.

• The Royal Observatory

  phone: +44 20 8858-4422
  address: Flamsteed House
  The home of Greenwich Mean Time and the Prime Meridian line, this is one of the most important historic scientific sites in the world. It was founded by Charles II in 1675 and is, by international decree, the official starting point for each new day, year and millennium (at the stroke of midnight GMT as measured from the Prime Meridian). Now a detached part of the National Maritime Museum, it houses an impressive display and a recently-built planetarium. There are several different star shows per day and are well worth the money, especially as it's now the only celestial performance of its kind around, after the London Planetarium completely converted to Madame Tussauds.

• The Royal Naval College

  phone: +44 20 8269-4747
  address: Old Royal Naval College, 2 Cutty Sark Gdns, SE10 9NN
  Built by Christopher Wren in 1694 as the Greenwich Hospital for the relief and support of seamen and their dependents and for the improvement of navigation. It became the Royal Naval College in 1869, and recently the University of Greenwich and Trinity College of Music have moved in. Best known for its Painted Hall, with elaborate ceiling and wall paintings executed by Sir James Thornhill between 1707 and 1726.

Blackheath

• Ranger's House

  phone: +44 20 8294-2548
  address: Chesterfield Walk, SE10 8QX
  At Blackheath, the Ranger's House maintains a large ceramic collection.

North Greenwich

• Emirates Aviation Experience

  phone: +44 20 3440 7021 (Monday-Friday), +44 20 3475 8299 (Saturday-Sunday)
  address: Edmund Halley Way, SE10 0FR
  For families and aviation enthusiasts, Emirates has created an interactive exhibition about how their A380 planes operate. Upgraded tickets are available that give up to 4 people the opportunity to experience a flight simulator in either an A380 or B777 cockpit. There is also an on-site cafe and souvenir shop.

• Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park

  address: The Ecology Park Gatehouse, Thames Path, John Harrison Way, London SE10 0QZ
  A hidden-away green space and wildlife haven in the middle of urban Greenwich. Comes alive in the summer with brightly coloured insects and birds.

Further afield

• Eltham Palace

  phone: +44 20 8294-2548
  address: Court Yard, Eltham, SE9 5QE
  One of the most notable art deco buildings in London which was built and owned by the Courtaulds family of textile fame. Administered by English Heritage.

• Charlton House

  phone: +44 20 8856 3951
  address: Charlton House, Charlton Road, London SE7 8RE
  Completed in 1612, the finest and best preserved Jacobean mansion in London.

• The Valley (Charlton Athletic FC)

  phone: +44 20 8333 4000
  address: The Valley, Floyd Rd, London SE7 8BL
  Watch League One football during the football season. Normally possible to buy tickets at the gate but they can be booked in advance online to avoid disappointment. Perhaps the best way to avoid the tourists and enjoy an afternoon with local fans!

• Severndroog Castle

  phone: +44 800 689 1796
  address: Castle Wood, Shooters Hill, London SE18 3RT
  An 18th-century folly built as a memorial to Sir William James by his widow. Today you can climb the 86 steps to the top of the castle for amazing views over London and seven different counties.

Tours

• Greenwich Heritage and Meridian ToursOperated by the Greenwich Tour Guides Association, the original guiding organisation that has operated in Greenwich for 25 years. Walking tours take place twice a day (every day, excluding 24-26 Dec, 1 Jan and London Marathon Day). No need to book in advance, buy tickets on the day from the meeting point at the Discover Greenwich Tourist Information Centre. Runs two tours: The Meridian Tour (noon) which includes a scenic walk to the top of the hill in Greenwich Park - more energetic of the two walks but doesn't go into any attractions. The Greenwich Highlights Tour (2:15PM) which doesn't go up the hill but enters the chapel of the Royal Naval College.

• Greenwich Royal Tours

  phone: +44 800 180 4565
  Runs a range of more in-depth tours including Greenwich Day Tour, Greenwich Highlights Half Day Tour, Greenwich Food Tour and National Maritime Museum Tour. Tickets must be booked in advance and tours leave from outside the Greenwich Visitors Centre. Pub lunches are generally included, as is admission to attractions.

• Greenwich Bus Tours

  phone: +44 20 8317 3817
  A range of different bus tours, including to some destinations outside of Greenwich town centre which are harder to reach.

• Meantime Brewery Tours

  phone: +44 20 8293 1111
  address: Unit 4-5 Lawrence Trading Estate, Blackwall Lane SE10 0AR
  Since being founded in Greenwich in 2000, beers from the award-winning Meantime Brewery have spread across the country. Still produced in Greenwich, tours of the site are available and include a tasting session. A bar and shop on site mean that you can continue sampling beers after the tour has finished.

Live music and entertainment

• The O2

  phone: +44 20 8463-2000
  address: Peninsula Square, SE10 0DX
  The former Millennium Dome has been transformed into a major entertainment complex consisting of a large arena which plays host to a number of world class perfomers, a cinema which includes the largest screen in the UK, and numerous bars and restaurants. Tickets can be purchased in advance to join tours walking over the top of the dome, providing unique views.

• Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance

  phone: +44 20 8305 4444
  An internationally renowned school for music and dance training based in the Old Royal Naval College and a contemporary site by Deptford Creek. Put on musical and dance performances across Greenwich throughout the year - many of them free.

• St. Alfege Church

  phone: +44 20 8853-0687
  address: Greenwich Church St, SE10 9BJ
  A beautiful Baroque church designed by Nicholas Hawksmoor (and is rumoured to have links with Occultists, Freemasons and such-like). Hosts classical music concerts and organ recitals. Its Christmas choir is enjoyable also.

Cinema and theatre

• Greenwich Picturehouse

  phone: +44 871 902 5732
  address: 180 Greenwich High Rd, SE10 8NN
  Tends to show art-house films.

• Odeon

  address: Bugsby Way, SE10 0QJ
  The large Odeon multiplex has 18-screens, but is a bit out-of-the way, at Bugsby Way, on the way to the O2 Arena.

• Greenwich Theatre

  phone: +44 20 8858-7755
  address: Croom's Hill, SE10 8ES

• Up The Creek Comedy Club

  phone: +44 20 8858 4581
  address: 302 Creek Rd, Greenwich, London SE10 9SW
  Comedy club. Hosts hilarious stand-up as well as music nights.

Seasonal activities

• Blackheath Heath Fireworks Display

  phone: +44 20 8314-7321
  Every Guy Fawkes night (5th of November) Lewisham council put on a spectacular free fireworks display. In the past few years crowds of over 100,000 have amassed, so arrive early to secure a good spot. The heath also hosts funfairs and circus at various times of the year.

• Greenwich Tall Ships FestivalAnnual festival held at the start of July. Tall sailing ships cruise down the Thames from Woolwich, with Greenwich town centre being a fantasic place to view them. Each evening of the festival concludes with a spectacular fireworks display on the river. Packages can be bought for trips aboard the ships.

Get active

• NG1 Golf

  phone: + 844 549 9911
  address: 265 Tunnel Ave, London, SE10 0QE
  Urban driving range against the spectacular backdrop of Canary Wharf. Restaurant and bar on site. 18 years + age policy after 6PM.

• Bunker 51 laser tag and paintball

  phone: +44 330 333 8085
  address: 3 Herringham Rd, London SE7 8NJ
  Let off some steam for a couple of hours with laser tag or paintball at an underground Cold War themed bunker in part of industrial Greenwich. Great for kids (or just your inner-kid!). Next to the Thames Barrier - which keeps the city safe from flooding - be sure to go and take a look at this giant structure in the river whilst you're here.

• Walk the Thames PathGreenwich is home to the last 4 miles (6.4 km) of the 184-mile-long Thames Path, organised by National Trails. From Cutty Sark, the path follows the river up and around the Greenwich Peninsula before ending at the Thames Barrier. The trail affords great views of Canary Wharf and passes sights including the Old Royal Naval College, the O2 Arena and the Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park while passing some fantastic pubs for drinks or lunch along the way. End point The path's end point at the Thames Barrier has an information centre about the structure and a cafe (Th-Su 11AM-3:30PM; closed M Tu W). To get back to North Greenwich station, take bus route 472 or 161 - a ten-minute walk away. The 117 or 118 bus route will return you to Greenwich town centre. Alternative route The last 2 miles of the walk pass through more industrial areas, which are quite interesting in themselves, but some visitors might prefer to end the walk at the O2 Arena, which is next to North Greenwich tube station.

Greenwich Market

Greenwich Market actually consists of several markets all quite close together:

• Greenwich Arts and Crafts MarketAn indoor market also selling good food, and containing many interesting little shops.

• The Flea Market

  address: Thames St
  Selling what you would expect.

• Greenwich Antiques Market

  address: Greenwich High Rd
  The name is a bit deceptive but it does have plenty of old books, music, clothes and jewellery.

• The Central Market

  address: Stockwell St
  The largest part of the market that sells homeware, furniture and books.

• Greenwich Auction House

  address: 47 Old Woolwich Rd
  One of the largest auction houses in London, deals mainly with furniture and a bit of arts and crafts.

Shops

• Flying Duck

  address: Creek Road
  Loads of kitsch goodie and retro furnishings to inject a bit of glamour into your life.

Greenwich has restaurants of different types and costs.

Greenwich Town Centre

Greenwich town centre has restaurants of different types and costs. Around Cutty Sark, national restaurant chains can be found (e.g. Nandos, Byron, Gourmet Burger Kitchen etc).

• Babas Cafe

  address: 13 Greenwich South St
  One of the oldest cafes in Greenwich. Great for a value for money breakfast or lunch serving traditional English dishes. Babas is renowned for a massive choice of freshly made sandwiches—a firm favourite with locals and tourists.

• The Kings Arms

  phone: +44 20 8858-4544
  address: 16 King William Walk
  This pub is well situated for the tourist attractions in Greenwich and does good bar food.

• The Mogul Tandoori

  phone: +44 20 8858-6790
  address: 10 Greenwich Church St
  This restaurant provides excellent Nepalese and Northern Indian cuisine in an unusual and interesting setting (as long as you get seated downstairs, below street level).

• Tai Won Mein noodle housesOffers budget Chinese cuisine, at a budget price if you're after a bargain rather than quality. They only take cash. Noodle Time and Saigon are located around the street, facing each other, and offer similar fare/price.

• Old Brewery

  address: Pepys Building
  Part of the local Meantime Brewery's growing empire with a massive enclosed outdoor area - great in the summer months. Part of the same building as the tourist information centre, and perhaps more popular with tourists than locals although there is a mix of both. A cafe, and a pub/restaurant - the latter serves good if relatively expensive food (£13.50 for a burger) and a range of good Meantime beers, which are still brewed a couple of miles away. Service can be a little slow when it's busy.

• Greenwich Market Food Court

  phone: +44 20 8269 5096
  address: Greenwich Market, London, SE10 9HZ
  Expanded in 2016, Greenwich Market's outdoor food court is now a dedicated section of the market. Dozens of street food stalls offer a range of cuisines from around the world. Seating is limited, so it is best to buy your food and eat it either in Greenwich Park or next to the river by Cutty Sark.

• Buenos Aires Cafe

  phone: +44 20 8858 9172
  address: 15 Nelson Rd, Greenwich, London, SE10 9JB
  Casual Argentinian cafe with steaks, Spanish-themed food and brunch. Relaxing orangery and garden at the rear.

• Rivington Greenwich

  phone: +44 20 8293 9270
  address: 178 Greenwich High Road, Greenwich, London, SE10 8NN
  Modern British food with seasonal ingredients. Next door to the Greenwich Picture House.

• Goddards at Greenwich

  phone: +44 20 8305 9612
  address: 22 King William Walk, Greenwich, London, SE10 9HU
  Open since 1890, London's most famous pie and mash restaurant. Enjoy the capital's traditional meal - handmade fresh every day. Footballer David Beckham is known to be a fan and makes occasional visits.

Outside Greenwich Town Centre

• Blue Nile

  phone: +44 20 8855-0369
  address: 73 Woolwich New Road, Woolwich, SE18 6ED
  Eritrean-Italian café and restaurant.

• Zaibatsu

  phone: +44 20 8858-9317
  address: 96 Trafalgar Road, Greenwich, SE10 9UW
  Japanese fusion restaurant. Food more impressive than the basic decor. You can bring your own alcohol.

• Yak & Yeti Restaurants

  phone: +44 20 8850 2626
  address: 86 Eltham High Street, Eltham, London SE9 1BW, United Kingdom
  The Yak & Yeti is an Indian restaurant and takeaway in Eltham near Blackheath, Lewisham and Greenwich.

• The Ivy Cafe Blackheath

  phone: +44 20 3940 1010
  address: 43-45 Montpelier Vale, Blackheath, London SE3 0TJ
  British classics - great for brunch, afternoon tea or dinner. Reserve in advance if you're planning to be in the area!

• The Golden Chippy

  phone: +44 20 8692 4333
  address: 62 Greenwich High Road, London, SE10 8LF
  Fish and chip shop. Traditional no-frills 'chippy' - takeaway or eat in.

• Street Feast - Public (Woolwich)

  address: Plumstead Rd, Woolwich, London SE18 7BZ
  A covered market from the 1930s has been transformed into an epic indoor space, with rainbow roof, pool tables and massive seating area. Home to eight of street-food traders, five bars and South-East London vibes.

The further you get from the centre of Maritime Greenwich, the more authentic the pubs get - with fewer tourists.

Pubs

• The Cutty SarkGreat pub build in Georgian period. Best time to go is on a warm summer's evening when you can sit out by the river and watch the sunset in the west. Can get pretty busy though!

• The Greenwich Union on Royal HillOwned by the Meantime Brewery, based in nearby Charlton, which stocks its own range of beer in a variety of styles.

• The Lost Hour

  phone: +44 20 8269 1411
  address: 217-219 Greenwich High Rd, London, SE10 8NB
  Friendly beach-themed bar set over two floors. One of the only bars in Greenwich that shows live sports, with multiple screens and a large projector screen. Video games consoles available to play on the ground floor. Reasonably priced pub food (burgers, wraps, etc.) and a large range of beer and other drinks.

• The Plume of Feathers

  address: Park Row
  A quaint little watering-hole, nearly on the prime meridian, with a variety of guest ales tucked away from the run-of-the mill riff-raff in Greenwich town centre. Excellent food at reasonable prices, try the delicious mixed platter for 4 to get the taste buds going!

• Richard IOwned by Young's, which sells its real ales. Nice beer garden at the back and does a good Sunday Roast. Hosts a popular pub quiz on Tuesday evenings.

• The Trafalgar TavernGreenwich Inc-owned. Beautiful old pub but overcrowded. The bar is over bright and sitting outside has become less pleasant since they lined loads of benches up along the river path. Service can also be brusque.

• Ye Olde Rose and Crown

  address: Crooms Hill 1
  The Rose and Crown is a cozy bar, out of main routes in Greenwich Park. As a typical British pub - serves quality food and wide range of drinks (British ales, lagers, wines, spirits, coffee and tea). Friendly staff and nicely selected music.

• The Pelton Arms

  address: 23-25 Pelton Rd
  Small local pub which hosts music nights and other events. Might be a good bet if you want to drink with locals, rather than tourists.

• The Sail Loft

  phone: +44 20 8222 9310
  address: 11 Victoria Parade, London SE10 9FR
  Pub run by Fuller's on the riverside with decent but limited outdoor seating. In the summer, the doors are opened up so that the entire bar feels like you're drinking by the river.

• The Gipsy Moth

  phone: +44 20 8858 0786
  address: 60 Greenwich Church St, London SE10 9BL
  Historic Grade I listed pub right next to the Cutty Sark. Big outdoor seating area but the pub is too often filled with tourists.

Bars

• Davy's Wine Vaults

  phone: +44 20 8858 7204
  address: 161 Greenwich High Rd, London SE10 8JA
  Relaxed, wood-panelled wine bar offering over 100 varieties and a smart, British, seasonal menu. Large outdoor seating area.

• Oliver's Jazz Bar

  phone: +44 20 8858 3693
  address: 9 Nevada St, London SE10 9JL
  Cozy and compact jazz bar with live music. Quirky decor and old furniture create a fun ambiance.

• Toomai Square

  phone: +44 2080661199
  address: 5-6 Lambarde Square, Greenwich London SE10 9GB
  Dishes range from yellow lobster curry and chicken Manchurian to black cod with ginger and shiitake mushrooms, and a drinks menu that includes cocktails.

Greenwich has a good variety of accommodation options - catering for a range of budgets. As well as serving guests coming specifically to visit Greenwich, the hotels and hostels in the area are cheaper and more peaceful options for visitors to base themselves during a visit to London compared to accommodation in the centre of the city. If the hustle and bustle of central London aren't for you - Greenwich is a relaxing place to stay, with plenty of good places to eat and drink nearby and easy travel links into the city centre.
Most visitors to the borough tend to stay in Greenwich town centre, although there is some accommodation available in Blackheath and on the Greenwich Peninsula. Further afield, accommodation options are more limited. Those attending concerts and events at the O2 might find that Greenwich town centre is a more pleasing place to stay that in hotels near the arena, which can lack character.

Budget

• St Christopher's Inn

  phone: +44 208 858 3591
  address: 189 Greenwich High Rd
  A lively hostel - part of the popular chain - above the lively Belushi's bar (a student favourite). Right next to Greenwich station - providing quick links into central London. 6-12 bed mixed dorms, dedicated female dorm and private rooms available. Includes free WiFi, continental breakfast, a free walking tour of Greenwich and 25% off food and drink in the hostel bar.

• Venture Hostel

  phone: +44 20 8692 6219
  address: 86 Tanners Hill, Deptford, Lewisham, London, SE8 4PN
  Bright, modern and recently-refurbished hostel above a lively pub - probably the cheapest price in the area. 3-12 bed mixed dorms, with dedicated female-only dorms available. Rate includes free WiFi and breakfast.

Mid-range

• De Vere Devonport House

  phone: +44 20 8269-5400
  address: King William Walk, Greenwich, SE10 9JW
  This Georgian-style hotel has 93 rooms all in a grand old converted building. Located right at the Maritime World Heritage site. Specialises in hosting corporate functions and seminars but the accommodation for casual visitors offers decent value.

• Hotel Ibis Greenwich

  phone: +44 20 8305-1177
  address: 30 Stockwell St, SE10 9JN
  A typical, rather identikit Ibis hotel. Not expensive by any means though.

• The Pilot Inn

  address: 68 River Way, SE10 0BE
  This 200-year-old Fullers pub has five bedrooms upstairs at reasonable rates.

• Premier Inn

  address: 43-81 Greenwich High Rd
  Popular mid-range chain - close to Greenwich station with easy access into central London.

• Novotel

  phone: +44 20 7660 0682
  address: 173-185 Greenwich High Rd, London SE10 8JA
  Four-star chain hotel with stylish rooms. Right next to Greenwich station, providing easy access into central London.

Splurge

• Onesixtwo

  phone: +44 020 8465 5444
  address: 162 Westcombe Hill, London, SE3 7DH
  Boutique guest house with stylish and modern rooms in between Blackheath and Greenwich. Out of the way and not as close to public transport as other hotels, but located in a very relaxed area away from the tourist centre of Greenwich. Free WiFi and continental breakfast.

• Clarendon Hotel

  phone: +44 20 8318-4321
  address: 8–16 Montpelier Row, Blackheath, SE3 0RW
  Three-star hotel in a lovely old converted Georgian building on Blackheath Green. Price includes a full breakfast and free WiFi.

• The Mitre

  phone: +44 20 8293-0037
  address: 291 Greenwich High Rd, SE10 8NA
  This historic pub in the heart of Greenwich has 14 guest rooms upstairs. Free WiFi and continental buffet breakfast.

Hopefully you won't need to use medical services or speak to the police during your visit to Greenwich, but local services are available for visitors if needed. In an emergency, always call 999 (toll-free) from any payphone or mobile phone.

Police

The nearest police station to Greenwich town centre and Blackheath with a public 24-hour front counter is Lewisham Police Station. Non-emergency crimes (i.e. crimes that are not in progress, such as a stolen car, theft or damaged property) can be reported by calling 101.

• Lewisham Police Station

  address: 43 Lewisham High Street, SE13 5JZ

Medical services

Depending on your nationality, immigration status and the nature of your treatment, medical care with the National Health Service may either be free or come with a cost - this may have to be paid for in advance. Emergency treatment is always free at the point of use but you may have to pay later. For non-emergencies, you can call 111 to speak to a trained medical adviser.
For emergency medical treatment, University Hospital Lewisham is the nearest Accident & Emergency hospital.

• University Hospital Lewisham

  phone: +44 20 8333 3000
  address: Lewisham High Street, London, SE13 6LH

For non-emergency treatment, you can see a doctor or nurse at a GP surgery. You will have to book an appointment in advance but GP surgeries hold a number of slots available each day for urgent cases - call or visit as soon as the surgery opens to secure one of these slots (demand is high).

• Burney Street Medical Practice

  phone: +44 20 8858 0631
  address: 48 Burney Street, London, SE10 8EX

Being in London, mobile phone coverage is universal across Greenwich and traditional red payphones can be found in Greenwich town centre.
The majority of pubs, bars and restaurants offer free wifi, as do the Royal Museums Greenwich (Cutty Sark, Royal Observatory, Queen's House and National Maritime Museum). As the National Maritime Museum is free to enter, considering visiting here to use the wifi if you need to access the internet in the centre of Greenwich.

• West Greenwich Library

  phone: +44 20 8858 4289
  address: 146 Greenwich High Road, West Greenwich, London SE10 8NN
  Free public library in Greenwich town centre. Free wifi and computer use with no need to register - just speak to the staff to get started. Printing available - 10p per B&W page, 25p per colour page.

• Post Office

  phone: +44 345 722 3344
  address: 261-267 Greenwich High Rd, London SE10 8NE
  Post office with full postal services and small stationary shop. Branch has a foreign currency exchange and a 24-hr ATM. National Express coach tickets can be purchased here.

Gyms

Despite the prevalence of gyms in Greenwich, many require a membership to use (and some are unmanned, meaning that you can't even ask about one-off use). Most of these gyms will provide a free month's trial however, so visitors wanting to use the gym more than once during their stay might consider signing up for this and then cancelling the subscription prior to being charged after they have left. Gyms that allow visitors to pay for one-off use include:

• The Greenwich Centre

  address: 12 Lambarde Square, London, SE10 9HB
  Lesiure centre run by a charitable social enterprise - gym, swimming pool and fitness classes on site. You can buy short-term 1, 5, 7, 14 or 30 day passes.

• City Lifestyle

  phone: +44 208 853 4076
  address: Unit B Woodwharf, Horseferry Place, Greenwich, SE10 9BB
  Private gym in an attractive location by riverfront.

Launderette

• Soma Dry Cleaners

  phone: +44 20 8858 5035
  address: 237 Greenwich High Road, London, Greater London SE10 8NB
  Dry cleaning, laundry shirt service and repairs.

• Vina Launderette & Dry Cleaners

  phone: +44 20 8691 0711
  address: 92 Royal Hill, Greenwich, London SE10 8RT
  2 hour service, dry cleaning, service wash. Also provides a pick-up and delivery service.

• Greenwich Launderette

  phone: +44 20 8858 6937
  address: 174 Trafalgar Rd, London SE10 9TZ
  Traditional self-service launderette with washing machines/dryers available for customers to use.

Local news

Greenwich only has one local print newspaper - the free, monthly Greenwich Visitor which provides information about local happenings. This can be picked up in most large Greenwich supermarkets or in stands outside Cutty Sark DLR station. You can also view current and past editions online at the Greenwich visitor website.
Other sources of information for news and events are primarily online, including:

• Greenwich DiaryCovers upcoming events and attractions in west and central Greenwich.

• News ShopperOnline newspaper covering south-east London, including a section on Greenwich.

Pharmacies

In Greenwich town centre, there are two chain pharmacies, which provide cosmetics and on-the-shelf medicines. Both are well located for visitors looking to buy suncream being heading to Greenwich Park in the summer. Neither store has a full pharmacy service for over-the-counter medicines - the closest options being Boots stores a short DLR ride away in Canary Wharf (Jubilee Place) or Lewisham (72-78 Lewisham High St).

• Boots

  phone: +44 20 8293 7147
  address: 51 Greenwich Church St, London, SE10 9BL
  Popular high-street pharmacy chain, with essential and premium toiletry and cosmetic products as well as a large selection of medicines. Instant photo-printing kiosk inside.

• Superdrug

  phone: +44 20 8858 4560
  address: 3 Crescent Arcade, Greenwich, SE10 9EJ
  Heath and beauty chain with a well-priced range of toiletry and cosmetic products.

Religious services

• St Alfege's Church

  phone: +44 20 8853 0687
  address: 3 Greenwich Church St, London SE10 9BJ
  Anglican parish church in the centre of Greenwich. Short services throughout the week and three Sunday services.

• Our Ladye Star of the Sea Roman Catholic Church

  phone: +44 20 8858 0662
  address: 68 Crooms Hill, London SE10 8HG
  Roman Catholic church next to Greenwich Park.

• Greenwich Islamic Centre

  phone: +44 20 8855 0786
  address: 131 Plumstead Road, Plumstead, London, SE18 7DW
  South-east London's largest Sharia mosque in a modern Islamic centre. 3,200 capacity for men and women. Website includes details about prayer times.

• Greenwich is close to Canary Wharf. The financial district's vast collection of skyscrapers is a prominent sight from Greenwich's riverside and park and is only 10 minutes away by DLR. While primarily a business district, tourists might enjoy wandering around the base of the tall buildings or watching the hub of activity in the area during the week. Nearby West India Quay is home to the Museum of London Dockslands (free entry), which tells the history of the Docklands - including Greenwich.
• From Greenwich station, two trains per hour continue into Kent - one of the 'Home Counties' bordering Greater London. Popularly known as the Garden of England due to its green landscape, the county includes a number of attractions that could be included on day trips outside of the capital. Trains from Greenwich stop at the Medway Towns, from where you will continue your journey to your destination.
• From the Greenwich Peninsula, take the Emirates Air Line - the UK's first urban cable car. Linking the O2 Arena with the ExCel Exhibition Centre at Royal Victoria Docks, it rises to 90 metres in the air over the River Thames, providing views across the city.