Greenwich Park

What to expect

Greenwich Park was enclosed in 1433 and is the first of London's eight Royal Parks to have been enclosed. The Royal Observatory on the hilltop was chosen by Charles II in 1675 and opened in 1676, and the Greenwich meridian was adopted as the world's Prime Meridian in 1884. The park covers around 74 hectares.

From the hilltop you look over the Thames, the Isle of Dogs and the City of London, with the Royal Hospital buildings in the foreground and Canary Wharf behind. The hill is steep in places, so allow time for the climb. There is a rose garden, a flower garden, a boating lake, playground, bandstand and cafés. People usually spend an hour or two.

Don't miss

• The view from the Royal Observatory hill
• The Prime Meridian line
• The flower garden
• The boating lake
• Canary Wharf in the distance

Tips for your visit

• Come on a clear day for the best view; late afternoon light is good for photographs.
• Pack a picnic from Greenwich Market and eat on the hill.
• Wear comfortable shoes for the slope.
• Combine it with the National Maritime Museum, which sits in the park.