Glorious Greenwich: More than time

The Royal Borough of Greenwich is the most elegant area of south-east London, straddling the world’s hemispheres with glorious architecture and green open space. We list its must-see gems.

Cutty Sark: As part of the Royal Greenwich Museums, this majestic ship was built in 1869 and was specially designed to export tea from China to London. She was brought to Greenwich in 1954 where she became one of its most popular attractions. Although struck by fire in May 2007, the main infrastructure underwent restoration and in April 2012 the ship was re-opened to the general public.

Old Royal Naval College: Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, the twin domes are the main highlight of the edifice and provide a wonderful view from both the river and Greenwich Park. The college has a long history dating back to 1706, when it opened at the Royal Hospital of Seamen, until today as the home to the University of Greenwich.

Queen’s House: This sits between between the two domes of the Royal Naval College. Its striking feature is the Palladian style from its outer decorations to its inner decor in the Great Hall, with its black and white marble-tiled floor is laid out in bold geometric patterns. It was the residence of many famous monarchs, until 1933 when it became part of the National Maritime Museum, one of its largest kind in the world.

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The O2 at sunriseThe O2 Arena: Formerly the Millennium Dome, this structure was London’s tribute to the new millennium. Now home to cinemas and a concert and exhibition venue, it also hosts the British Music Experience – telling the story of modern British music. You can climb up over the roof for bird’s-eye views of London.

Old Royal Observatory: The Royal Observatory is home to the Prime Meridian and Planetarium, a remarkable astronomic and horological collection along with Britain’s largest refracting telescope can be found here. This was once owned by horologist John Harrison who successfully managed to establish longitude for mariners at sea. The Royal Observatory has not lost its sense of tradition until today. Visitors can witness the daily spectacles such as the red time ball, set their watches to the local time.

The Fan Museum: With some 4,000 largely antique fans this museum in Crooms Hill runs varying exhibitions throughout the year. Perfect for a hot day!

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Court fan from The Fan Museum

Greenwich Market: A covered market established in 1771. It specialises in arts, crafts, collectibles, food and antiques according to the day in question.

The Ranger’s House: Found in the southwest corner of the park, this gorgeous Georgian villa houses more than 600 works of art – including jewellery, paintings and porcelain.

Have you ever visited Greenwich? What did you like best? Let us know by tweeting us @BritainMagazine.

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