Naval College Gardens
A tranquil riverside garden in Greenwich, framed by the Old Royal Naval College and offering views of the Cutty Sark and Canary Wharf across the Thames.
Nestled in the heart of Greenwich, Naval College Gardens is a peaceful green oasis framed by the grand architecture of the Old Royal Naval College and the River Thames. Laid out in the 19th century, the gardens offer wide lawns, mature trees, and elegant pathways perfect for a quiet stroll. Visitors enjoy views of the riverside, the Cutty Sark, and the Canary Wharf skyline across the water. With benches, seasonal planting, and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s an ideal spot to unwind between visits to Greenwich’s major attractions.
A brief summary to Naval College Gardens
- 2 Cutty Sark Gardens, London, SE10 9LW, GB
- +442082694747
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy the gardens at their quietest, with soft light perfect for photography.
- Combine your visit with a walk through the Greenwich Foot Tunnel to Island Gardens for a different perspective on the river and skyline.
- Use the gardens as a peaceful route between the Cutty Sark, Old Royal Naval College, and Greenwich town centre.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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DLR
Take the Docklands Light Railway to Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich station. From there, it’s a 3–5 minute walk along the riverside path to Naval College Gardens, passing the Cutty Sark on your way.
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Train
Arrive at Greenwich station on Southeastern services from London Bridge or Cannon Street. From the station, follow signs for the Old Royal Naval College and the river; Naval College Gardens are a 5–7 minute walk along King William Walk and the Thames Path.
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Riverboat
Take an Uber Boat by Thames Clippers to Greenwich Pier. From the pier, walk a few minutes along the Thames Path to reach Naval College Gardens, with the Cutty Sark and Old Royal Naval College clearly visible along the way.
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Walking
From Greenwich town centre or Greenwich Market, follow the riverside path west along the Thames for about 5–10 minutes to reach Naval College Gardens, passing the Cutty Sark and the Old Royal Naval College entrance.
Naval College Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Naval College Gardens
A Historic Riverside Retreat
Naval College Gardens occupies a prime stretch of riverside land in central Greenwich, directly opposite the Old Royal Naval College and just steps from the Cutty Sark. Originally laid out in the 1870s as part of the Naval Hospital grounds, the gardens were designed to provide a dignified, open space for staff and patients, with long axial paths and formal planting. Today, they retain that sense of order and calm, with wide lawns, mature trees, and well-kept flowerbeds that change with the seasons. The gardens are part of Greenwich’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, sitting within a landscape shaped by centuries of naval and royal history.Design and Atmosphere
The layout is simple yet elegant: broad pathways run parallel to the Thames, offering uninterrupted views of the river and the modern skyline of Canary Wharf. The space is largely flat and open, making it easy to navigate, with scattered benches where visitors can sit and watch the river traffic. Tall trees provide shade in summer, while in winter the bare branches frame the architecture of the Old Royal Naval College and the masts of the Cutty Sark. The gardens feel both formal and relaxed, a place where locals jog, tourists pause for photos, and families enjoy a moment of green in the middle of the city.Views and Connections
One of the garden’s greatest strengths is its setting. From the riverside path, you can see the Cutty Sark’s distinctive copper hull and rigging, the domes and colonnades of the Old Royal Naval College, and the modern towers of Canary Wharf across the Thames. The Greenwich Foot Tunnel entrance lies nearby, linking the gardens to Island Gardens on the north bank and offering a unique way to experience the river. The gardens also serve as a natural connector between Greenwich town centre, the Cutty Sark, the Old Royal Naval College, and the Thames Path, making them a practical and pleasant route between major sights.Visitor Experience
Naval College Gardens is a place to slow down. It’s popular with walkers, runners, and those simply looking for a quiet spot to sit with a coffee or a book. The atmosphere is peaceful, especially early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the crowds thin out. It’s also a favourite with photographers, who capture the contrast between historic architecture and modern skyline, or the play of light on the river. While there are no major facilities within the gardens themselves, the surrounding area offers plenty: cafes, restrooms, and visitor centres are all within a few minutes’ walk, making it easy to combine a visit here with time at the Cutty Sark or the Old Royal Naval College.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bellot Memorial Greenwich
0.1 km
A solemn obelisk in Greenwich honoring Lieutenant Joseph René Bellot’s Arctic bravery and sacrifice during the Franklin rescue expeditions.
Trafalgar Tavern
0.3 km
Historic Greenwich riverside pub since 1837, famed for whitebait feasts, naval art, and Thames panoramas—perfect for pints, roasts, and celebrations.
Maritime Greenwich a World Heritage Site
0.3 km
Explore Maritime Greenwich, where royal heritage, maritime history, and the birthplace of Greenwich Mean Time converge in a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Greenwich Foot Tunnel North
0.5 km
Walk beneath the Thames through 200,000 white tiles in this 1902 engineering marvel.
Anchor Iron Wharf
0.6 km
Historic riverside wharf in Greenwich marked by a large anchor sculpture, blending maritime heritage with stunning Thames views.
St Anne's Church, Limehouse
3.6 km
Discover St Anne's Church, Limehouse—an 18th-century Baroque maritime landmark with rich naval heritage and mysterious architectural features.
Execution Dock
4.1 km
A haunting riverside landmark where London’s maritime law was enforced through centuries of public executions.
Shadwell Basin
4.1 km
Experience the peaceful beauty of Shadwell Basin, a serene spot in London perfect for relaxation and scenic walks amidst nature's charm.
King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)
4.2 km
Historic Thames foreshore site where pirates and maritime criminals faced grim justice under Admiralty law for over 400 years.
The Captain Kidd
4.2 km
Historic riverside pub with authentic maritime charm, classic ales, and scenic Thames views in London’s Wapping district.
Execution Dock House
4.4 km
Historic riverside site where pirates and maritime criminals met justice in London’s centuries-old Admiralty executions.
Ornamental Canal
4.7 km
Explore the serene Ornamental Canal in London, a picturesque waterway perfect for relaxation, scenic views, and rich history.
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
4.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, a unique blend of nature, history, and community nestled in the heart of London.
International House
4.9 km
Discover the International House in London, a symbol of global unity and vibrant cultural exchange at the heart of the city.
St Katharine Docks Marina
5.2 km
London's only central marina: historic waterfront elegance where maritime heritage meets modern leisure.
Unmissable attractions to see
Painted Hall
0.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Painted Hall, a Baroque masterpiece with vivid ceilings and walls celebrating Britain’s naval and royal heritage.
Trinity Laban
0.1 km
The UK's premier conservatoire for music and contemporary dance, set within the historic Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich.
Greenwich Tourist Information Desk
0.1 km
Explore London's maritime heritage at the Greenwich Tourist Information Desk, your gateway to local attractions and experiences.
Cutty Sark Gardens
0.1 km
A serene riverside park in Greenwich showcasing the historic Cutty Sark tea clipper and offering scenic Thames views and vibrant cultural connections.
Cutty Sark
0.2 km
Explore the world’s fastest surviving tea clipper, Cutty Sark, a historic maritime treasure in the heart of Greenwich with immersive exhibits and stunning river views.
Greenwich Market
0.2 km
Historic Greenwich Market blends antiques, artisan crafts, and global street food in a vibrant, covered London landmark open daily.
5b Greenwich Market
0.2 km
A historic covered market in Greenwich, London, brimming with artisan crafts, antiques, vintage finds, and global street food in a lively, community-focused setting.
National Maritime Museum
0.2 km
Explore Britain’s rich naval history at the world’s largest maritime museum, set in scenic Greenwich with free entry and engaging galleries for all ages.
National Maritime Museum Gardens
0.2 km
A tranquil garden oasis within London’s premier maritime museum complex, blending history, nature, and family-friendly charm.
Greenwich Pier
0.2 km
Historic Greenwich Pier offers scenic river cruises and easy access to London's maritime landmarks and vibrant cultural heritage along the Thames.
Queen's House
0.3 km
Discover England’s first classical building, the Queen's House in Greenwich, a timeless blend of royal history, art, and architectural brilliance.
1 Greenwich Church St
0.3 km
Historic Greenwich Church Street blends centuries of heritage with vibrant shops, eateries, and iconic landmarks by the Thames.
The Greenwich Vintage Market
0.3 km
Discover rare antiques, vintage treasures, and eclectic crafts in the heart of historic Greenwich’s vibrant market scene.
St Alfege Church
0.3 km
Discover over a millennium of history, architecture, and music at St Alfege Church, the heart of Greenwich’s spiritual heritage.
Greenwich Foot Tunnel
0.3 km
Step beneath the Thames through a century-old pedestrian tunnel linking historic Greenwich with the modern Isle of Dogs.
Essential places to dine
Goddards at Greenwich
0.2 km
Experience authentic British pie and mash at Goddards at Greenwich, a historic eatery serving traditional comfort food in a welcoming setting.
Sticks'n'Sushi Greenwich
0.2 km
Experience fresh sushi and Nordic-inspired grilled sticks in stylish Greenwich, where maritime history meets modern Japanese cuisine.
Pho Street
0.2 km
Authentic Vietnamese pho, banh mi, and bubble tea served in a lively Greenwich setting with fresh flavors and warm hospitality.
Bill's Greenwich Restaurant
0.3 km
A cozy British restaurant in Greenwich offering hearty dishes, friendly service, and a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere from breakfast to late dinner.
The Sail Loft, Greenwich
0.5 km
Stylish riverside dining in Greenwich with panoramic Thames views, modern British cuisine, and versatile event spaces.
Midpoint Restaurant
0.6 km
Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dining with riverside views and warm hospitality in London’s vibrant SE10 district.
Sefa Restaurant
0.7 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Greenwich.
The Prince of Greenwich Pub
0.8 km
A vibrant gastropub in Greenwich blending quirky museum charm, authentic Italian cuisine, and lively jazz in a historic London setting.
The Hill
0.8 km
A vibrant Mediterranean and Latin American fusion restaurant with a cozy garden setting in the heart of Greenwich.
Restaurant Story
5.4 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
La Dame de Pic London
5.8 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
6.0 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
6.0 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
14 Hills
6.1 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Nomadic community
6.2 km
A colorful, community-driven urban garden near Brick Lane, blending street art, creativity, and green space in East London’s vibrant cultural scene.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Painted hall gift shop
0.1 km
Souvenirs and stories from Greenwich's naval heart—tote bags, books, and treasures evoking the Painted Hall's timeless splendor.
Rare Books & Curios
0.2 km
A compact Greenwich Market stall overflowing with rare and vintage books, maps and printed curios that reward slow, tactile browsing.
Arc Angel Boutique London
0.2 km
Elegant womenswear samples, striking accessories, and quirky gifts await in Greenwich Market's stylish haven, where fashion meets historic charm.
Dragonfly Lifestyle
0.2 km
A small Greenwich boutique blending mindful womenswear, handcrafted jewellery and wellbeing finds in a calm, curated shop environment.
Joli Vintage Living
0.2 km
Discover timeless threads and retro treasures at Joli Vintage Living, Greenwich's gem for sustainable, era-spanning style on charming Nelson Road.
Greenwich Gifts Candy Land
0.3 km
Dive into a candy wonderland on Greenwich Church Street, where British classics and global sweets make perfect edible souvenirs in London's historic heart.
The Cutty Sark Gift Shop
0.3 km
Discover maritime magic and London keepsakes at this Greenwich gem, brimming with Cutty Sark-inspired treasures and souvenirs just steps from the historic clipper ship.
Made in Greenwich
0.3 km
Discover Greenwich's handmade heart: a not-for-profit haven where local makers' treasures shine, fueling community creativity one unique gift at a time.
The Junk Shop
0.7 km
Lose yourself in Greenwich's maze-like antique wonderland, where eclectic treasures, a cozy tearoom, and quirky finds await around every cluttered corner.
La Boutique Vintage
1.1 km
Unearth retro home treasures in Greenwich's cozy furniture nook—sustainable style with vintage soul.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
5.4 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
Bermondsey Antique Market
5.4 km
Uncover vintage treasures at London’s oldest antiques market, where history meets haggling every Friday morning in Bermondsey Square.
Tower of London Shop
5.7 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Traders Gate
5.8 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
Unique Store
5.9 km
Explore London's Unique Store: Your go-to convenience shop for local snacks, souvenirs, and essentials, right in the heart of the city.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Gipsy Moth
0.2 km
Historic Greenwich pub with Cutty Sark views, hearty grub, beer garden bliss, and live music vibes—perfect for nautical nostalgia and relaxed revelry.
Kings Arms
0.2 km
Classic Greenwich pub with hearty grub, real ales, dog-friendly beer garden, and riverside vibes—perfect for post-sightseeing pints.
Ye Olde Rose & Crown Greenwich
0.4 km
Traditional Greenwich pub pouring real ales and pub classics next to the theatre—perfect for families, dogs, and post-show pints in historic surrounds.
The Lost Hour
0.6 km
Greenwich's craft beer epicenter where sports, pub grub, and late-night vibes collide—lose yourself in the fun on High Road.
Mindful Mixology
0.6 km
A compact Greenwich cocktail bar focused on lower-sugar craft drinks, hands-on masterclasses and a calm riverside atmosphere.
Greenwich Town Social Club
1.1 km
Cozy Greenwich social hub for cheap drinks, karaoke nights, and neighborhood camaraderie on Blackwall Lane.
Td 338 Bar
1.6 km
Warehouse wonderland with epic sound, lush terraces, and non-stop beats—London's hidden rave escape on Greenwich Peninsula.
All Bar One Greenwich
2.3 km
Elevate your O2 experience at this multi-floor haven of wines, cocktails, and event-night energy—perfect for pre-show feasts and lively toasts amid London's entertainment epicenter.
Eighteen Sky Bar
2.3 km
Elevate your evening with crafted cocktails and 360-degree skyline views from the 18th floor over Thames, Canary Wharf, and The O2.
Drink At Bob's
3.5 km
Lively cocktail bar in Hither Green blending expertly crafted drinks, live music, and a welcoming vibe with vegan-friendly options.
The Midnight Apothecary
3.8 km
Discover a magical rooftop bar blending botanical cocktails, fire pits, and historic tunnel tours atop London’s Brunel Museum.
Nine Lives
5.7 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
5.8 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
5.9 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill, blending dark medieval history with refined ales and classic British fare in a Grade II listed building.
The Old School Yard
6.0 km
Step into a lively retro playground with expertly crafted cocktails, classic arcade games, and a vibrant 80s and 90s atmosphere in London Bridge.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Bunker
1.6 km
A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.
The Hatch Club
2.1 km
A late-night New Cross club with a roomy dancefloor, VIP sections and bass-forward DJ nights—built for parties and private events.
The Venue
2.2 km
A vibrant multi-room nightclub in New Cross, London, blending diverse music, cutting-edge sound, and a welcoming atmosphere since 1989.
American Express Invites Lounge
2.3 km
A backstage‑inspired, Cardmember-only lounge at The O2 with distinct seating zones, crafted drinks and a complimentary welcome drink on event nights.
(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub
2.4 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
LA Lounge
3.0 km
London's top Afrobeats nightclub in Docklands: ethnic sophistication, VIP vibes, cocktails, and late-night dances until 4am on weekends.
CQ LOUNGE
3.8 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
Club 701
4.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
E1
4.8 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Corsica Studios
6.5 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
The Steel Yard
6.5 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
Ministry of Sound
6.6 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
The Hoxton Pony
7.0 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Trafik
7.1 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
Basing House - Shoreditch
7.1 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Zen
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Mindfulness
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly