Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection
Explore a stunning Georgian villa housing the Wernher Collection, a world-class display of medieval and Renaissance art on the edge of Greenwich Park.
Ranger's House is an elegant early 18th-century Georgian villa located on the edge of Greenwich Park, London. It houses the remarkable Wernher Collection, showcasing nearly 700 works of art including medieval and Renaissance paintings, ivories, jewellery, and fine decorative arts amassed by diamond magnate Sir Julius Wernher. The house’s classical Palladian architecture and tranquil rose garden complement this world-class collection, offering visitors a unique glimpse into European art and aristocratic history.
A brief summary to Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection
- Chesterfield Walk, London, SE10 8QX, GB
- +443703331181
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book guided tours in advance as entry is by guided tour only and tours last about 1.5 hours.
- Photography is not allowed inside the house, but you can take photos in the gardens and exterior.
- Visit during spring to enjoy the cherry blossoms and in summer for the rose garden in full bloom.
- Use the detailed guidebooks and room cards to learn about the unique artworks and their history.
- Combine your visit with a walk in Greenwich Park and explore nearby historic Greenwich attractions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to Cutty Sark station, then walk approximately 15 minutes through Greenwich Park to Ranger's House. The DLR runs frequently with tickets costing around £3-£5 depending on your starting zone.
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Bus
Bus routes 129, 177, or 180 serve the Chesterfield Walk area near Ranger's House. Buses run every 10-20 minutes with a journey time of 20-30 minutes from central Greenwich. Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for fares around £1.65.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central Greenwich to Ranger's House takes about 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares in the range of £8-£15. Note that parking near the house is limited.
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Walking
For those staying nearby, a pleasant 20-30 minute walk through Greenwich Park leads to Ranger's House. The terrain is mostly flat but includes some gentle slopes and paved paths, suitable for most walkers.
Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection
Architectural Elegance Rooted in History
Ranger's House, built around 1722-23 for Vice-Admiral Francis Hosier, is a distinguished Georgian villa designed in the Palladian style, characterized by its red brick façade and classical symmetry. Originally a private residence with commanding views and easy access to London, it later became the official home of the Ranger of Greenwich Park during the 19th century. The house has undergone restorations and additions over the centuries, preserving its stately charm and historical significance as a residence for aristocrats and royals, including the 4th Earl of Chesterfield and Princess Sophia Matilda.The Wernher Collection: A Treasure Trove of Art
Since 1986, Ranger's House has been home to the Wernher Collection, one of Europe's greatest private art collections assembled by Sir Julius Wernher, a German-born diamond magnate. The collection comprises nearly 700 objects displayed across twelve elegantly panelled rooms. It includes a dazzling array of medieval and Renaissance artworks such as religious paintings, Dutch Old Masters, finely carved Gothic ivories, Renaissance bronzes, French tapestries, exquisite jewellery, and Sèvres porcelain. Wernher’s passion for the ‘splendidly ugly’ is evident in the collection’s unique pieces, which showcase exceptional craftsmanship and unusual motifs.Immersive Visitor Experience and Interior Ambience
Visitors explore the collection through guided tours that reveal the stories behind the artworks and the house’s history. The interiors retain original Georgian features, providing a fitting backdrop for the collection’s grandeur. Each room is thoughtfully curated to evoke the display style of Wernher’s original London and Bedfordshire homes. While photography inside is not permitted, detailed guidebooks and informative displays enrich the experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the artistry and historical context of the collection in a serene and refined setting.Gardens and Setting at Greenwich Park
Set on the fringe of the expansive Greenwich Park, Ranger's House is surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens, including a rose garden laid out in the 1960s. The grounds offer a peaceful retreat with seasonal highlights such as cherry blossoms in spring. The Meridian Line passes through the property, adding an intriguing geographical landmark. The location combines cultural heritage with the natural beauty of one of London’s most historic green spaces, enhancing the overall visitor experience.Legacy and Cultural Significance
Ranger's House stands as a testament to London’s rich maritime, aristocratic, and artistic heritage. Though Sir Julius Wernher never lived in the house, the partnership with English Heritage has ensured that his extraordinary collection remains accessible in a setting befitting its importance. The house’s role as the Ranger’s residence and its later cultural reinvention, including its appearance as the Bridgerton family home in popular media, highlight its enduring place in London’s historical and contemporary landscape.Practical Details for Visitors
Entry to Ranger's House is by guided tour only, typically lasting around 1.5 hours. The house offers facilities such as a small shop and restrooms, though no refreshments are sold on-site. Accessibility is supported with information available for visitors with mobility needs, and guide dogs are permitted. The house is temporarily closed at times, so checking current opening status before visiting is recommended. The site’s location near Greenwich Park makes it an ideal cultural stop combined with outdoor exploration in London.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Maritime Greenwich a World Heritage Site
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Bellot Memorial Greenwich
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Trafalgar Tavern
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Anchor Iron Wharf
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Greenwich Foot Tunnel North
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Walk beneath the Thames through 200,000 white tiles in this 1902 engineering marvel.
St Anne's Church, Limehouse
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Discover St Anne's Church, Limehouse—an 18th-century Baroque maritime landmark with rich naval heritage and mysterious architectural features.
Execution Dock
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A haunting riverside landmark where London’s maritime law was enforced through centuries of public executions.
King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)
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Shadwell Basin
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Experience the peaceful beauty of Shadwell Basin, a serene spot in London perfect for relaxation and scenic walks amidst nature's charm.
The Captain Kidd
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Execution Dock House
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Ornamental Canal
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International House
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Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
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St Katharine Docks Marina
6.1 km
London's only central marina: historic waterfront elegance where maritime heritage meets modern leisure.
Unmissable attractions to see
Royal Observatory Greenwich
0.4 km
Home of Greenwich Mean Time and the Prime Meridian, where the world’s time begins and one foot can stand in each hemisphere.
Greenwich Park
0.4 km
Historic Royal Park with panoramic London views, iconic landmarks, tranquil gardens, and rich maritime heritage in a UNESCO World Heritage setting.
The Old Royal Observatory Garden
0.4 km
A tranquil garden steeped in the heritage of British astronomy, offering stunning views and a serene escape within historic Greenwich Park.
Prime Meridian
0.5 km
Experience the intersection of time and space at the Royal Observatory, where history meets the cosmos in beautiful Greenwich Park.
The Fan Museum
0.8 km
Discover the UK’s only museum dedicated to the history and craft of fans, set in elegant Georgian townhouses in historic Greenwich.
Oliver's Jazz Bar
0.8 km
An intimate, candlelit basement jazz club in Greenwich where close-up live music and community atmosphere meet a well-stocked bar.
Queen's House
0.9 km
Discover England’s first classical building, the Queen's House in Greenwich, a timeless blend of royal history, art, and architectural brilliance.
National Maritime Museum Gardens
0.9 km
A tranquil garden oasis within London’s premier maritime museum complex, blending history, nature, and family-friendly charm.
National Maritime Museum
0.9 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.
The Greenwich Vintage Market
0.9 km
Discover rare antiques, vintage treasures, and eclectic crafts in the heart of historic Greenwich’s vibrant market scene.
St Alfege Church
1.0 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
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Historic Greenwich Church Street blends centuries of heritage with vibrant shops, eateries, and iconic landmarks by the Thames.
5b Greenwich Market
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A historic covered market in Greenwich, London, brimming with artisan crafts, antiques, vintage finds, and global street food in a lively, community-focused setting.
Greenwich Market
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Historic Greenwich Market blends antiques, artisan crafts, and global street food in a vibrant, covered London landmark open daily.
Naval College Gardens
1.1 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.
Essential places to dine
The Prince of Greenwich Pub
0.6 km
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The Hill
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Pho Street
0.9 km
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Bill's Greenwich Restaurant
1.0 km
A cozy British restaurant in Greenwich offering hearty dishes, friendly service, and a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere from breakfast to late dinner.
Sticks'n'Sushi Greenwich
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Goddards at Greenwich
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Experience authentic British pie and mash at Goddards at Greenwich, a historic eatery serving traditional comfort food in a welcoming setting.
Sefa Restaurant
1.3 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Greenwich.
The Sail Loft, Greenwich
1.4 km
Stylish riverside dining in Greenwich with panoramic Thames views, modern British cuisine, and versatile event spaces.
Midpoint Restaurant
1.4 km
Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dining with riverside views and warm hospitality in London’s vibrant SE10 district.
Restaurant Story
6.2 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
6.7 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
6.9 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
6.9 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
14 Hills
7.0 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
George
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Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
La Boutique Vintage
0.7 km
Unearth retro home treasures in Greenwich's cozy furniture nook—sustainable style with vintage soul.
The Junk Shop
0.9 km
Lose yourself in Greenwich's maze-like antique wonderland, where eclectic treasures, a cozy tearoom, and quirky finds await around every cluttered corner.
Joli Vintage Living
1.0 km
Discover timeless threads and retro treasures at Joli Vintage Living, Greenwich's gem for sustainable, era-spanning style on charming Nelson Road.
Arc Angel Boutique London
1.0 km
Elegant womenswear samples, striking accessories, and quirky gifts await in Greenwich Market's stylish haven, where fashion meets historic charm.
Dragonfly Lifestyle
1.0 km
A small Greenwich boutique blending mindful womenswear, handcrafted jewellery and wellbeing finds in a calm, curated shop environment.
The Cutty Sark Gift Shop
1.0 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.
Rare Books & Curios
1.0 km
A compact Greenwich Market stall overflowing with rare and vintage books, maps and printed curios that reward slow, tactile browsing.
Made in Greenwich
1.1 km
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Greenwich Gifts Candy Land
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Painted hall gift shop
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Unique Store
6.0 km
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Bermondsey Antique Market
6.1 km
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Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
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Tower of London Shop
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Traders Gate
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ye Olde Rose & Crown Greenwich
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The Lost Hour
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Kings Arms
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The Gipsy Moth
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Mindful Mixology
1.3 km
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Greenwich Town Social Club
1.6 km
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Td 338 Bar
2.5 km
Warehouse wonderland with epic sound, lush terraces, and non-stop beats—London's hidden rave escape on Greenwich Peninsula.
Drink At Bob's
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All Bar One Greenwich
3.2 km
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Eighteen Sky Bar
3.3 km
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The Midnight Apothecary
4.7 km
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Nine Lives
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The Old School Yard
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Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
6.8 km
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The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Bunker
1.6 km
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The Hatch Club
2.3 km
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The Venue
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American Express Invites Lounge
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(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub
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LA Lounge
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CQ LOUNGE
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Club 701
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E1
5.7 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Corsica Studios
7.1 km
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Ministry of Sound
7.3 km
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The Steel Yard
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Phonox
7.9 km
Phonox: Brixton’s cutting-edge nightclub where underground electronic beats meet a vibrant, spacious dancefloor and top-tier sound.
The Hoxton Pony
7.9 km
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Trafik
8.1 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly