Living in Greenwich

About Greenwich

Greenwich is one of only four Royal Boroughs in London, steeped in maritime history and architectural grandeur. From the Old Royal Naval College and the Royal Observatory to the regenerated Greenwich Peninsula and The O2, the area blends old-world elegance with modern living. 

The town centre is lively, with markets, cafés and boutiques, while Greenwich Park and the Thames Path offer peaceful escapes. Its proximity to Canary Wharf and the City makes it ideal for commuters and the area’s laid-back, friendly vibe appeals to students, families and creatives.

Fact file

• The world’s first weather forecast was issued from Greenwich Royal Observatory in 1848.
• Henry VIII, Mary I, and Elizabeth I were all born in Greenwich’s Palace of Placentia.
• Greenwich became a Royal Borough in 2012 and a World Heritage Site in 1997.
• The Cutty Sark, a 19th-century tea clipper, is permanently moored in Greenwich and open to visitors.

Architecture and property

Greenwich offers a rich mix of Georgian and Victorian architecture, especially in the town centre and Ashburnham conservation area. East of the park, you’ll find charming cottages and Victorian terraces, while the North Greenwich Peninsula features modern riverside apartments. The area’s development has been shaped by its royal and industrial past, with regeneration continuing to bring new homes and amenities.

Going out

Greenwich has a thriving food and drink scene. Rare Steakhouse and Kitcho are local favourites, while The Pavilion Café in Greenwich Park offers scenic dining. Pubs like The Old Brewery and Cutty Sark provide riverside views and locally brewed ales. Cultural highlights include the National Maritime Museum, Royal Observatory, Greenwich Theatre and two cinemas. Events like Greenwich Music Time and the Docklands International Festival add to the area’s lively calendar.

Local amenities

Greenwich is famous for its historic market, where you’ll find antiques, designer jewellery, fine art, children’s clothes, and street food. Cheese lovers head to The Cheeseboard to join its popular Cheese Club, while nautical enthusiasts browse Naval and Maritime Books or explore Nauticalia for gifts and premium rums. Local libraries offer creative activities, from reading groups at West Greenwich Library to knitting clubs at East Greenwich Library. 

For everyday shopping, there are large Sainsbury’s and Waitrose stores with ample parking, plus several Tesco branches. For entertainment, The O2 Arena hosts major concerts and offers the thrill of climbing its roof for panoramic views. Fitness fans can visit the Greenwich Centre, run by GLL, featuring two pools, a 110-station gym and a crèche.

Green spaces

Greenwich Park is one of London’s most historic green spaces, home to the Royal Observatory, rose gardens and panoramic views. Nearby, Maryon Wilson Animal Park offers hands-on animal experiences and East Greenwich Pleasaunce is a local favourite. The Thames Path provides scenic walking and cycling routes, and the Greenwich Foot Tunnel connects to the Isle of Dogs.