National Maritime Museum, London
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.
The National Maritime Museum in Greenwich, London, is the world's largest maritime museum, showcasing Britain's rich naval history through extensive galleries and exhibitions. Open daily from 10am to 5pm, it offers free entry to its permanent collections, with special exhibitions sometimes ticketed. Located near the River Thames and part of the Royal Museums Greenwich, it features interactive galleries for all ages and stunning views of Greenwich Park.
A brief summary to National Maritime Museum
- Romney Rd, London, SE10 9NF, GB
- +442088584422
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 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
- Book free tickets online in advance to guarantee entry and receive updates about special exhibitions.
- Visit on weekdays or during off-peak hours for a quieter experience and better access to exhibits.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Cutty Sark and Queen’s House for a full day in Greenwich.
- Families should check out the interactive children’s galleries and weekly Play Tuesdays events for kids.
- Enjoy refreshments at the Parkside Café overlooking Greenwich Park or the Ocean Court Café inside the museum.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train
Travel to Greenwich or Maze Hill stations from central London, each about a 9-minute walk to the museum. Trains run frequently, with fares typically between £3-£6 depending on the starting point.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve the museum area, including routes 129, 177, 180, 188, 286, 386, and the night bus N1. Bus travel times vary from 20 to 40 minutes from central London, with standard London bus fares applying.
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Riverboat
Riverboat services from central London to Greenwich Pier offer a scenic approach. The pier is a short walk from the museum. Prices range from £7 to £12 for a single journey, with travel times around 40 to 50 minutes.
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Car
A secure car park is available at the museum on weekends, bank holidays, and school holidays. Parking spaces can be reserved in advance. Note that weekday parking is limited and the area is subject to congestion charges.
National Maritime Museum 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 National Maritime Museum
A Legacy of British Naval Power
The National Maritime Museum stands as a monumental tribute to Britain's maritime heritage, reflecting the nation's profound connection to the sea. Established in 1937 on a site with a rich history as a school for seafarers' children, the museum is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Maritime Greenwich. It traces the evolution of naval exploration, trade, and warfare, highlighting Britain's role as a dominant maritime power. Visitors can explore stories of legendary figures such as Admiral Nelson and Francis Drake, alongside the lives of ordinary sailors who shaped the seas.Diverse and Engaging Exhibitions
Housing fourteen distinct galleries, the museum offers a comprehensive journey through maritime history. Highlights include the Nelson, Navy, Nation gallery with Admiral Nelson’s uniform, the Tudor and Stuart Seafarers gallery, and the Polar Worlds gallery showcasing heroic exploration tales. The Pacific Encounters gallery invites reflection on the complex legacies of European exploration. For families, interactive spaces like the All Hands gallery for children aged 6 to 12 provide engaging, educational experiences. Temporary exhibitions and special events enrich the museum’s offerings throughout the year.Architectural and Environmental Setting
Set within Greenwich Park, the museum’s architecture blends historic and modern elements, providing scenic views of the park and the River Thames. Its spacious layout and thoughtful design facilitate easy navigation through its extensive collections. The museum’s location near other Royal Museums Greenwich sites, including the Cutty Sark and the Queen’s House, allows visitors to immerse themselves fully in the maritime cultural landscape of Greenwich.Visitor Amenities and Accessibility
The museum is fully accessible, featuring ramps, lifts, and accessible restrooms to accommodate all visitors. On-site amenities include the Parkside Café with views over Greenwich Park and the Ocean Court Café offering refreshments within the museum. Facilities such as cloakrooms, baby changing, and a gift shop enhance the visitor experience. The museum encourages advance booking for special exhibitions and offers membership benefits including free entry and discounts.Community and Educational Engagement
The National Maritime Museum actively engages with the community through educational programs, workshops, and family events like the weekly Play Tuesdays for children. Its extensive archives and library support research and learning, while audio guides and maps help visitors deepen their understanding. The museum’s commitment to preserving maritime heritage makes it a vital cultural institution for both locals and tourists.Connections and Transport Links
Easily reachable from central London, the museum is served by Greenwich and Maze Hill train stations, multiple bus routes, and nearby riverboat services. A secure car park is available during weekends and holidays. Its proximity to other attractions in Greenwich makes it an ideal destination for a full day of exploration in this historic maritime quarter.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
Bellot Memorial Greenwich
0.3 km
A solemn obelisk in Greenwich honoring Lieutenant Joseph René Bellot’s Arctic bravery and sacrifice during the Franklin rescue expeditions.
Trafalgar Tavern
0.4 km
Historic Greenwich riverside pub since 1837, famed for whitebait feasts, naval art, and Thames panoramas—perfect for pints, roasts, and celebrations.
Anchor Iron Wharf
0.6 km
Historic riverside wharf in Greenwich marked by a large anchor sculpture, blending maritime heritage with stunning Thames views.
Greenwich Foot Tunnel North
0.7 km
Walk beneath the Thames through 200,000 white tiles in this 1902 engineering marvel.
St Anne's Church, Limehouse
3.8 km
Discover St Anne's Church, Limehouse—an 18th-century Baroque maritime landmark with rich naval heritage and mysterious architectural features.
Execution Dock
4.3 km
A haunting riverside landmark where London’s maritime law was enforced through centuries of public executions.
Shadwell Basin
4.3 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)
4.4 km
Historic Thames foreshore site where pirates and maritime criminals faced grim justice under Admiralty law for over 400 years.
The Captain Kidd
4.4 km
Historic riverside pub with authentic maritime charm, classic ales, and scenic Thames views in London’s Wapping district.
Execution Dock House
4.5 km
Historic riverside site where pirates and maritime criminals met justice in London’s centuries-old Admiralty executions.
Ornamental Canal
4.9 km
Explore the serene Ornamental Canal in London, a picturesque waterway perfect for relaxation, scenic views, and rich history.
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
4.9 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
5.0 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
5.4 km
London's only central marina: historic waterfront elegance where maritime heritage meets modern leisure.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Maritime Museum Gardens
0.0 km
A tranquil garden oasis within London’s premier maritime museum complex, blending history, nature, and family-friendly charm.
Queen's House
0.1 km
Discover England’s first classical building, the Queen's House in Greenwich, a timeless blend of royal history, art, and architectural brilliance.
Naval College Gardens
0.2 km
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.
Painted Hall
0.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Painted Hall, a Baroque masterpiece with vivid ceilings and walls celebrating Britain’s naval and royal heritage.
Oliver's Jazz Bar
0.2 km
An intimate, candlelit basement jazz club in Greenwich where close-up live music and community atmosphere meet a well-stocked bar.
Trinity Laban
0.3 km
The UK's premier conservatoire for music and contemporary dance, set within the historic Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich.
Greenwich Market
0.3 km
Historic Greenwich Market blends antiques, artisan crafts, and global street food in a vibrant, covered London landmark open daily.
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.
5b Greenwich Market
0.3 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.
The Fan Museum
0.3 km
Discover the UK’s only museum dedicated to the history and craft of fans, set in elegant Georgian townhouses in historic Greenwich.
Greenwich Tourist Information Desk
0.3 km
Explore London's maritime heritage at the Greenwich Tourist Information Desk, your gateway to local attractions and experiences.
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.
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.
Cutty Sark Gardens
0.3 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
0.4 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.
Essential places to dine
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.
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.
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.
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 Prince of Greenwich Pub
0.6 km
A vibrant gastropub in Greenwich blending quirky museum charm, authentic Italian cuisine, and lively jazz in a historic London setting.
Midpoint Restaurant
0.6 km
Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dining with riverside views and warm hospitality in London’s vibrant SE10 district.
The Sail Loft, Greenwich
0.7 km
Stylish riverside dining in Greenwich with panoramic Thames views, modern British cuisine, and versatile event spaces.
Sefa Restaurant
0.7 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Greenwich.
The Hill
0.7 km
A vibrant Mediterranean and Latin American fusion restaurant with a cozy garden setting in the heart of Greenwich.
Restaurant Story
5.6 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
6.0 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
6.2 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
6.2 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
14 Hills
6.3 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Nomadic community
6.4 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
0.2 km
Souvenirs and stories from Greenwich's naval heart—tote bags, books, and treasures evoking the Painted Hall's timeless splendor.
Arc Angel Boutique London
0.3 km
Elegant womenswear samples, striking accessories, and quirky gifts await in Greenwich Market's stylish haven, where fashion meets historic charm.
Joli Vintage Living
0.3 km
Discover timeless threads and retro treasures at Joli Vintage Living, Greenwich's gem for sustainable, era-spanning style on charming Nelson Road.
Dragonfly Lifestyle
0.3 km
A small Greenwich boutique blending mindful womenswear, handcrafted jewellery and wellbeing finds in a calm, curated shop environment.
Rare Books & Curios
0.3 km
A compact Greenwich Market stall overflowing with rare and vintage books, maps and printed curios that reward slow, tactile browsing.
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.
Greenwich Gifts Candy Land
0.4 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.
Made in Greenwich
0.4 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
0.6 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
1.0 km
Unearth retro home treasures in Greenwich's cozy furniture nook—sustainable style with vintage soul.
Bermondsey Antique Market
5.6 km
Uncover vintage treasures at London’s oldest antiques market, where history meets haggling every Friday morning in Bermondsey Square.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
5.6 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
Unique Store
5.8 km
Explore London's Unique Store: Your go-to convenience shop for local snacks, souvenirs, and essentials, right in the heart of the city.
Tower of London Shop
5.9 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Traders Gate
6.0 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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
0.3 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 Gipsy Moth
0.3 km
Historic Greenwich pub with Cutty Sark views, hearty grub, beer garden bliss, and live music vibes—perfect for nautical nostalgia and relaxed revelry.
The Lost Hour
0.5 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
0.7 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
1.7 km
Warehouse wonderland with epic sound, lush terraces, and non-stop beats—London's hidden rave escape on Greenwich Peninsula.
All Bar One Greenwich
2.4 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
2.5 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
3.4 km
Lively cocktail bar in Hither Green blending expertly crafted drinks, live music, and a welcoming vibe with vegan-friendly options.
The Midnight Apothecary
4.0 km
Discover a magical rooftop bar blending botanical cocktails, fire pits, and historic tunnel tours atop London’s Brunel Museum.
Nine Lives
5.9 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
6.0 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
6.1 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
6.1 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
2.2 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
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
2.5 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
2.6 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
LA Lounge
3.1 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
4.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
E1
5.0 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Corsica Studios
6.6 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
The Steel Yard
6.7 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
6.8 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
7.2 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Trafik
7.3 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
Basing House - Shoreditch
7.3 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
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Educational
- Family Friendly
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Historic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Protected Area
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
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
