Greenwich is arguably one of the most historically significant boroughs of London and is typically known for its rich royal and naval heritage.

On the current site of the Royal Naval College originally stood the Palace of Placentia, the royal seat and birthplace of many kings and queens of England including Henry VIII and Elizabeth I. It was rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren (Who built St Pauls Cathedral) in the 17th century as the Royal Naval Hospital for Sailors and today stands as part of the Royal Naval College along with the University of Greenwich and Trinity College of Music.

Greenwich is widely considered to be the closest established residential area to Canary Wharf and for this reason is popular as a commuter town for city workers as it is only 9 minutes away on the DLR.

In 2012 Greenwich will be awarded 'Royal Borough' status as part of the Queens Diamond Jubilee and it will be one of only three London boroughs to be granded this presigious status.

Places of Interest

Town Centre

Greenwich town centre is predominantly located to the West of Greenwich Park and is formed of many interesting boutique shops, cafe's and bistros. In the centre of the town next to the entrance to the Naval College is a covered market which has stood on the site since 1700 and currently opens Thursday to Sunday selling hand-made crafts and fresh food produce.

Greenwich Park

Greenwich Park is a prominent Royal park which rises from the National Maritime Museum, close to the Thames riverfront, up towards Blackheath. To the top of the park stands the Royal Observatory from which an excellent panorama across the London skyline can be viewed. Greenwich Park played host to the Equestrian events at the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games and is open year-round for visitors and local people to enjoy.

 Cutty Sark

The Cutty Sark, a magnificent clipper ship built in 1869, sits in a dry dock by the riverfront in Greenwich. A major fire in May 2007 destroyed parts of the ship but with a great deal of local and government support, the ship was restored to its former glory and it was re-opened by the Queen in April 2012. Today visitors can explore an exhibition of the Cutty Sark's working life or sample teas from its tea room underneath the ship. It remains one of the must-see attractions in Greenwich and London.

Riverfront

The Greenwich foot tunnel connects Greenwich to Poplar on the opposite side of the Thames and is a popular cut-through for cyclists heading towards Canary Wharf. Greenwich is also one of the key stopping points for many tourist boats taking trips down the Thames as well as the regular Thames Clipper service. In summer Greenwich is also a key mooring point for many world cruise ships.

Museums

Greenwich is home to a variety of museums including the National Maritime Museum, Discover Greenwich Centre, Royal Observatory and the world's only Fan Museum. In North Greenwich, in an area known as The Penninsula, stands the O2 arena, a world-reknown music and entertainment venue.

Olympics

In 2012, Greenwich Park hosted the equestrian events at the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Neighbouring Woolwich Arsenal hosted the archery and shooting events. Although there has been considerable opposition from local residents about using the park which is considered to be of archaeological and conservational importance, the Games has generally been deemed a huge success with footage from Greenwich Park particularly highlighting the towns attractive surroundings.