National Maritime Museum

What to expect

The National Maritime Museum opened in 1937 in buildings in Greenwich Park that were formerly the Royal Hospital School. It was created by an Act of Parliament in 1934 and is now part of Royal Museums Greenwich, together with the Queen's House and the Royal Observatory. It tells Britain's seafaring story, with paintings, ship models, charts and objects, including material about Horatio Nelson.

The main galleries are arranged around the covered courtyard, and the central galleries have been redeveloped and were renamed Ocean Court in 2025. The permanent collection is free to enter, while some temporary exhibitions in the side galleries charge. It is large enough for two hours or more, and works well in rain, with Greenwich Park next door for good weather.

Don't miss

• Portrait of Horatio Nelson by Rigaud
• Richard Westall's Nelson and the Bear
• Ship models and charts
• The Ocean Court galleries

Tips for your visit

• The permanent galleries are free, so you can drop in for an hour without booking.
• Combine it with the Cutty Sark, the Painted Hall and the climb to the Royal Observatory in Greenwich Park.
• The permanent galleries are large, so pick a few themes and take them slowly with children.