Discover the Historic Charm of Greenwich

• HelloAlright mate?
  [Al-rite mate?]
• GoodbyeTa-ra
  [Ta-ra]
• YesAye
  [Eye]
• NoNah
  [Nah]
• Please/You're welcomeCheers
  [Chiz]
• Thank youTa
  [Ta]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon
  [Pah-dun]
• How are you?You alright?
  [Yu al-rite?]
• Fine. And you?I'm good. You?
  [I'm gud. Yu?]
• Do you speak English?Do ya speak English?
  [Du ya speak Ing-glish?]
• I don't understandI ain't got a scooby
  [I ent got a skoo-bee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I have a look at the menu, please?
  [Kan I hav a luk at the menu, please?]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat dead animals
  [I don't eat ded animals]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseCan I settle up, please?
  [Kan I set-ul up, please?]

• Help!Can someone lend a hand?
  [Kan sum-wun lend a hand?]
• Go away!Clear off!
  [Clear off!]
• Call the Police!Ring the Old Bill!
  [Ring the Old Bill!]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc round 'ere!
  [Get a doc round 'ere!]
• I'm lostI'm all over the shop
  [I'm all ov-er the shop]
• I'm illI'm poorly
  [I'm poor-ly]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
• I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [Just brows-ing]
• How much is it?How much does that cost?
  [How much duz that cost?]
• That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
  [That's a bit steep]
• Can you lower the price?Can you do it cheaper?
  [Kan ya do it cheeper?]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [What's the time?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [It's one]
• Half past (10)Half ten
  [Half ten]
• MorningMornin'
  [Morn-in']
• AfternoonArvo
  [Ar-vo]
• EveningEvenin'
  [Even-in']
• YesterdayYest'day
  [Yest-day]
• TodayToday
  [Today]
• TomorrowTomorrer
  [Tom-or-rer]
• 1One
  [One]
• 2Two
  [Two]
• 3Three
  [Three]
• 4Four
  [Four]
• 5Five
  [Five]
• 6Six
  [Six]
• 7Seven
  [Seven]
• 8Eight
  [Eight]
• 9Nine
  [Nine]
• 10Ten
  [Ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the...?]
• What's the address?What's the postcode?
  [What's the postcode?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out (on the map)?
  [Kan ya point it out (on the map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus) due?
  [When's the next (bus) due?]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ...), please
  [A ticket (to ...), please]

Greenwich has long been associated with royalty, dating back to the 15th century when it became a favored residence of the Tudor monarchs. Henry VII built the original Tudor palace here, and it was the birthplace of notable figures such as Henry VIII and Elizabeth I. The area’s royal heritage is evident today in the stunning architecture of the Old Royal Naval College and the National Maritime Museum, which celebrate its maritime history.

Greenwich's strategic location along the River Thames made it a vital naval and trading port. In the 16th century, it became the site of the Royal Naval College, which trained officers for the British Navy. The area’s maritime significance continued through the centuries, culminating in the establishment of the Greenwich Maritime World Heritage Site in 1997, which highlights its historical importance in naval history.

In 1884, Greenwich became the prime meridian of the world, established at the Royal Observatory. This pivotal decision set the standard for global timekeeping, with Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) serving as the basis for time zones worldwide. The Royal Observatory itself, built in 1675, continues to be a major tourist attraction, providing insights into the history of astronomy and navigation.

During the 19th century, Greenwich underwent significant changes due to the Industrial Revolution. The establishment of shipyards and factories along the Thames transformed the economy, attracting a large workforce. The Cutty Sark, a famous tea clipper launched in 1869, stands as a symbol of this industrial era, now preserved as a museum ship and a popular tourist attraction.

In recent decades, Greenwich has experienced a cultural renaissance, bolstered by its historical sites and the establishment of events like the Greenwich + Docklands International Festival. The area is known for its vibrant arts scene, including the Greenwich Theatre and numerous galleries, reflecting a blend of its rich history and contemporary culture. The community actively celebrates its heritage through festivals and local initiatives.

Greenwich is easily accessible from central London. The Docklands Light Railway (DLR) connects Greenwich to the Jubilee Line at Canary Wharf, while the Southeastern train service operates from London Bridge, Waterloo East, and Charing Cross stations. Riverboat services are also available from central London piers to Greenwich Pier, providing a scenic route along the Thames.

Greenwich is a compact area, making it ideal for walking. Public transport options include the DLR, buses, and trains. Bicycles can be rented from various docking stations around the area, and cycle paths are available for safe travel. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also convenient for reaching less-accessible spots.

Greenwich is generally considered a safe neighbourhood for tourists. However, it's advisable to remain vigilant, particularly in crowded areas such as Greenwich Market. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, petty theft can occur, so it's best to keep valuables secure and avoid poorly lit areas at night.

In case of an emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Local hospitals and urgent care facilities are available in Greenwich. It's also recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are located throughout the neighbourhood for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably, especially when visiting attractions. Avoid overly casual attire when dining at upscale restaurants. Religion: Do be respectful at religious sites like the Old Royal Naval College. Don't take photographs in places where it’s prohibited. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to elderly or disabled passengers. Don't play loud music or disturb others. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile; a handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local eateries and enjoy a traditional Sunday roast. Don’t eat or drink in places where it’s explicitly not allowed.

To experience Greenwich like a local, visit the Greenwich Market for artisan goods and street food. Consider taking a stroll through Greenwich Park for stunning views of London. Engage with locals at pubs or cafes, particularly the historic ones like The Blackheath or The Trafalgar Tavern. For art lovers, check out the exhibitions at the National Maritime Museum and the Cutty Sark.