Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park – Urban Wildlife Sanctuary in London
A tranquil urban oasis on the Greenwich Peninsula, offering rich wildlife habitats and peaceful freshwater landscapes in the heart of London.
Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park is a four-acre urban freshwater habitat nestled on the Greenwich Peninsula in London. Established in 2002 and managed by The Conservation Volunteers, this tranquil park features two freshwater lakes, marshland, woodland, and wildflower meadows. It offers bird hides, boardwalks, and a rich diversity of wildlife, making it a peaceful natural oasis amid the city's bustle, open Wednesdays through Sundays from 10am to 5pm.
A brief summary to Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park - TCV
- The Ecology Park Gatehouse John Harrison Way, Olympian Way, London, SE10 0QZ, GB
- +442082931904
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit between Wednesday and Sunday from 10am to 5pm when the inner park and gatehouse are open to the public.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and explore the bird hides to see a variety of species without disturbance.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Thames Path for scenic riverside views and access to nearby attractions.
- Join conservation days or seasonal events to engage with local wildlife and support park maintenance.
- Use public transport to North Greenwich Underground station, then enjoy a 10-15 minute walk along the Thames Path to the park entrance.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground and Walking
Take the Jubilee Line to North Greenwich Underground station, then enjoy a 10 to 15-minute walk along the Thames Path to reach the Ecology Park entrance. The walk is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for most visitors.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve the area including 108, 129, 132, 161, 180, 188, 335, 422, 472, and 486. Buses 108, 129, 132, 161, 335, 472, and 486 stop at Millennium Village Oval Square, from where it is a short walk to the park. Bus 422 stops on John Harrison Way and 188 on Millennium Way. Expect travel times from central London to North Greenwich to range from 30 to 50 minutes depending on traffic.
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Cycling and Walking
Access the park via the Thames Path, which runs between the O2 Arena and the Thames Barrier. This route is ideal for cyclists and pedestrians seeking a scenic and traffic-free approach.
Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park - TCV location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park - TCV
A Revitalized Natural Haven Amid Urban Regeneration
Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park is a remarkable example of urban ecological restoration. The site, once part of Greenwich Marsh and heavily industrialized with gas works and shipbuilding yards from the late 19th century, was transformed starting in 1997 as part of a major regeneration project linked to the Millennium Dome. The park officially opened in 2002 and has since been managed by The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) in partnership with The Land Trust, which owns the land. This transformation reclaimed derelict land, restoring freshwater habitats and riverbank areas to create a vital green space in a densely developed area.Diverse Habitats and Rich Wildlife
Spanning four acres, the Ecology Park comprises two freshwater lakes surrounded by marshland, alder woodland, and a walk-in wildflower meadow. These habitats support a wide variety of wildlife, including frogs, toads, newts, dragonflies, damselflies, and many bird species such as reed warblers, snipe, water rail, and seasonal visitors like swifts and terns. The park also features specially designed bird hides that allow visitors to observe wildlife without disturbance. Its designation as a Site of Local Importance for Nature Conservation underscores its ecological value.Visitor Experience and Facilities
Visitors enter through the wooden Gatehouse on John Harrison Way, which also serves as the park office and information center. The inner park and boardwalks are accessible Wednesdays through Sundays from 10am to 5pm, with free admission and no need to book. The outer boardwalk is currently closed for repairs but will eventually connect to the inner boardwalk via a new bridge to improve access and protect wildlife. Facilities include toilets at the Gatehouse, accessible paths, and educational resources such as notice boards and a wildlife diary. Nearby amenities include Café Pura at Oval Square and public toilets at North Greenwich station.Community Engagement and Conservation Efforts
The park benefits from a dedicated team of wardens and volunteers who maintain the delicate balance of habitats and run conservation activities like pond dipping and bird watching. Regular events for all ages, educational visits, and guided tours foster community involvement and environmental awareness. The Friends of Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park support ongoing management and help ensure the park remains a high-quality nature reserve and accessible open space.Setting and Surroundings
Nestled beside the River Thames, the park offers scenic views across the river and is adjacent to Southern Park, an open grassland area used for recreation. The Thames Path runs alongside the park, providing a pleasant walking route between the O2 Arena and the Thames Barrier. Despite its compact size, the park feels like a peaceful oasis, offering a natural escape within London’s urban landscape.Conservation Significance and Future Prospects
Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park stands as a testament to successful urban wildlife habitat creation and conservation. Its ongoing management aims to balance public access with wildlife protection, especially as surrounding developments increase. Plans to improve boardwalk connectivity and habitat resilience reflect a commitment to sustaining this valuable green space for future generations, ensuring it remains a vital refuge for biodiversity in the heart of London.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Anchor Iron Wharf
1.6 km
Historic riverside wharf in Greenwich marked by a large anchor sculpture, blending maritime heritage with stunning Thames views.
Trafalgar Tavern
1.9 km
Historic Greenwich riverside pub since 1837, famed for whitebait feasts, naval art, and Thames panoramas—perfect for pints, roasts, and celebrations.
Greenwich Foot Tunnel North
2.0 km
Walk beneath the Thames through 200,000 white tiles in this 1902 engineering marvel.
Bellot Memorial Greenwich
2.1 km
A solemn obelisk in Greenwich honoring Lieutenant Joseph René Bellot’s Arctic bravery and sacrifice during the Franklin rescue expeditions.
Maritime Greenwich a World Heritage Site
2.5 km
Explore Maritime Greenwich, where royal heritage, maritime history, and the birthplace of Greenwich Mean Time converge in a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site.
St Anne's Church, Limehouse
3.7 km
Discover St Anne's Church, Limehouse—an 18th-century Baroque maritime landmark with rich naval heritage and mysterious architectural features.
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
4.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, a unique blend of nature, history, and community nestled in the heart of London.
Execution Dock
4.8 km
A haunting riverside landmark where London’s maritime law was enforced through centuries of public executions.
Shadwell Basin
4.8 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)
5.1 km
Historic Thames foreshore site where pirates and maritime criminals faced grim justice under Admiralty law for over 400 years.
The Captain Kidd
5.2 km
Historic riverside pub with authentic maritime charm, classic ales, and scenic Thames views in London’s Wapping district.
Montague Square
5.2 km
Discover Montague Square in London, a hidden gem offering tranquility and historical charm amidst the vibrant city life, perfect for leisurely strolls and relaxation.
Execution Dock House
5.4 km
Historic riverside site where pirates and maritime criminals met justice in London’s centuries-old Admiralty executions.
Ornamental Canal
5.5 km
Explore the serene Ornamental Canal in London, a picturesque waterway perfect for relaxation, scenic views, and rich history.
Stairway to Heaven, Bethnal Green Memorial
6.1 km
A powerful inverted staircase memorial in Bethnal Green Gardens, honouring the 173 civilians who died in the 1943 tube shelter disaster, the worst civilian loss of life in Britain during WWII.
Unmissable attractions to see
Greenwich
0.5 km
Where time begins: stand on the Prime Meridian, explore maritime history, and enjoy panoramic views over the Thames in this UNESCO World Heritage riverside district.
Emirates Aviation Experience
0.7 km
Experience the thrill of piloting iconic aircraft and explore the fascinating world of commercial aviation in London’s Emirates Aviation Experience.
North Greenwich Pier
0.9 km
Experience the stunning Thames views and vibrant atmosphere at North Greenwich Pier, your gateway to exploring London's riverside attractions.
Up at The O2
1.0 km
Climb the iconic roof of The O2 for an exhilarating 90-minute adventure with stunning 360° views over London’s skyline.
o2
1.0 km
Experience world-class concerts, sports, and entertainment at London's iconic O2 Arena, a vibrant hub on the Greenwich Peninsula.
The O2
1.2 km
London’s premier entertainment destination blending world-class concerts, sports, dining, and vibrant nightlife under one iconic dome.
City Hall
1.3 km
Explore London’s eco-friendly City Hall, a beacon of sustainable governance and modern architecture in the vibrant Royal Docks.
The FRIENDS™ Experience: The One in London
1.5 km
Step into the iconic sets of FRIENDS at Excel London and relive your favourite moments with immersive exhibits, photo ops, and exclusive merchandise.
Cutty Sark
1.5 km
Explore the world’s fastest 19th-century tea clipper, a historic maritime marvel docked in Greenwich with immersive exhibits and stunning river views.
Thames Barrier Information Centre
1.7 km
Explore the engineering marvel that protects London from flooding at the Thames Barrier Information Centre with interactive exhibits and riverside views.
Mudchute Park and Farm
1.9 km
Discover 32 acres of urban countryside, rare breeds, and family-friendly farm life in the heart of East London’s Isle of Dogs.
Royal Docks
1.9 km
Discover London's Royal Docks: a vibrant waterfront district blending panoramic views, water activities, and cultural innovation in East London.
Trinity Laban
2.1 km
The UK's premier conservatoire for music and contemporary dance, set within the historic Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich.
Painted Hall
2.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Painted Hall, a Baroque masterpiece with vivid ceilings and walls celebrating Britain’s naval and royal heritage.
Queen's House
2.1 km
Discover England’s first classical building, the Queen's House in Greenwich, a timeless blend of royal history, art, and architectural brilliance.
Essential places to dine
Sefa Restaurant
1.6 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Greenwich.
Midpoint Restaurant
1.6 km
Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dining with riverside views and warm hospitality in London’s vibrant SE10 district.
Goddards at Greenwich
2.3 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
2.3 km
Experience fresh sushi and Nordic-inspired grilled sticks in stylish Greenwich, where maritime history meets modern Japanese cuisine.
Pho Street
2.3 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
2.4 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
2.5 km
Stylish riverside dining in Greenwich with panoramic Thames views, modern British cuisine, and versatile event spaces.
The Prince of Greenwich Pub
2.8 km
A vibrant gastropub in Greenwich blending quirky museum charm, authentic Italian cuisine, and lively jazz in a historic London setting.
The Hill
2.9 km
A vibrant Mediterranean and Latin American fusion restaurant with a cozy garden setting in the heart of Greenwich.
Da Terra Restaurant
6.3 km
Experience innovative two-Michelin-star Modern European cuisine with vibrant Brazilian influences in the heart of East London’s historic Bethnal Green.
Restaurant Story
6.5 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
Nomadic community
6.6 km
A colorful, community-driven urban garden near Brick Lane, blending street art, creativity, and green space in East London’s vibrant cultural scene.
La Dame de Pic London
6.7 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
6.7 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
6.7 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Painted hall gift shop
2.1 km
Souvenirs and stories from Greenwich's naval heart—tote bags, books, and treasures evoking the Painted Hall's timeless splendor.
Rare Books & Curios
2.3 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
2.4 km
Elegant womenswear samples, striking accessories, and quirky gifts await in Greenwich Market's stylish haven, where fashion meets historic charm.
Dragonfly Lifestyle
2.4 km
A small Greenwich boutique blending mindful womenswear, handcrafted jewellery and wellbeing finds in a calm, curated shop environment.
Joli Vintage Living
2.4 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
2.4 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
2.4 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
2.4 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
2.8 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
3.2 km
Unearth retro home treasures in Greenwich's cozy furniture nook—sustainable style with vintage soul.
Unique Store
4.0 km
Explore London's Unique Store: Your go-to convenience shop for local snacks, souvenirs, and essentials, right in the heart of the city.
Westfield Stratford City
5.4 km
Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Westfield Stratford City, London's premier destination for fashion, food, and fun.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
6.5 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
Backyard Market
6.7 km
Discover handmade treasures and vibrant street culture at Backyard Market, Brick Lane’s creative heart.
Fashion St
6.7 km
A historic East London street where Victorian architecture meets modern creativity, surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and vibrant community life.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Td 338 Bar
0.8 km
Warehouse wonderland with epic sound, lush terraces, and non-stop beats—London's hidden rave escape on Greenwich Peninsula.
All Bar One Greenwich
1.1 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.
Greenwich Town Social Club
1.2 km
Cozy Greenwich social hub for cheap drinks, karaoke nights, and neighborhood camaraderie on Blackwall Lane.
Eighteen Sky Bar
1.4 km
Elevate your evening with crafted cocktails and 360-degree skyline views from the 18th floor over Thames, Canary Wharf, and The O2.
The Gipsy Moth
2.3 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
2.3 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
2.4 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
2.7 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
2.7 km
A compact Greenwich cocktail bar focused on lower-sugar craft drinks, hands-on masterclasses and a calm riverside atmosphere.
The Midnight Apothecary
4.8 km
Discover a magical rooftop bar blending botanical cocktails, fire pits, and historic tunnel tours atop London’s Brunel Museum.
Drink At Bob's
5.2 km
Lively cocktail bar in Hither Green blending expertly crafted drinks, live music, and a welcoming vibe with vegan-friendly options.
The Sun Tavern
6.2 km
Historic East End corner bar blending a vast Irish whiskey collection with lively live music and expertly crafted cocktails.
Satan's Whiskers
6.3 km
Discover East London's beloved cocktail bar where classic drinks meet hip-hop vibes and a quirky, intimate atmosphere.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
6.4 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
The Last Tuesday Society & Absinthe Parlour
6.7 km
Discover a unique blend of cocktail culture and museum curiosities at The Last Tuesday Society & Absinthe Parlour in London.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
LA Lounge
1.0 km
London's top Afrobeats nightclub in Docklands: ethnic sophistication, VIP vibes, cocktails, and late-night dances until 4am on weekends.
American Express Invites Lounge
1.2 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
1.4 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
CQ LOUNGE
2.0 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
The Bunker
3.7 km
A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.
The Hatch Club
4.2 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
4.3 km
A vibrant multi-room nightclub in New Cross, London, blending diverse music, cutting-edge sound, and a welcoming atmosphere since 1989.
E1
5.6 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Club 701
6.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
The Hoxton Pony
7.4 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Basing House - Shoreditch
7.5 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
The Steel Yard
7.5 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
Trafik
7.5 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
XOYO LONDON
7.8 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
Corsica Studios
7.9 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Naturalistic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly