A Walk around Greenwich

Greenwich is all about maritime heritage. At the top of the hill, the Royal Observatory provided accurate measurement of time, helping ships improve navigation. You’ll also see the Cutty Sark, a record-breaking tea clipper (currently undergoing a massive overhaul after a fire).

From the pier, walk up Greenwich Church Street. Turn left in to the historic covered market.

Its boutiques, food, antiques and crafts stalls are liveliest from Wednesday to Sunday.

Exit the market via the top right-hand corner, to King William Walk. Turn right and walk up to Greenwich Park and then follow The Avenue for the brisk climb up the hill that takes you to the Royal Observatory.

The views to Canary Wharf and the O₂ Arena are outstanding.

Walk back down the hill along the path 20m (22yds) to the east of General Wolfe’s statue. Exit through the park gate into Park Row. After a few steps, turn left into the grounds of Queen’s House and the National Maritime Museum. Leave the museum, cross Romney Road and enter the Old Royal Naval College and Chapel.

The College is now part of the University of Greenwich and Trinity College of Music. Visit the Chapel (1752) and the grandiose Painted Hall (1703), with its decorated ceiling.

Return to the DLR station.

Distance Approximately 3km (2 miles)

Time 2–4 hours, depending on visits

Start point Greenwich Pier DLR to Island Gardens, then pedestrian tunnel Greenwich from London Bridge River boat to Greenwich Pier

End point Old Royal Naval College

Lunch Picnic in the park

Cutty Sark 020 8858 3445; www.cuttysark.org.uk Closed for refurbishment until 2011

Old Royal Naval College and Chapel 020 8269 4747; www.oldroyalnavalcollege.org Daily 10–5 Free