North Greenwich to Canary Wharf walk

This walk is largely completed so I won’t get into it here until the video is ready. But to complete videoing it, take footage around North Greenwich station and head off down the Thames Path to Greenwich.

Here are some highlights…

From the Cutty Sark, turn left into the Naval College Gardens to proceed with your walk in Greenwich. These gardens will guide you to the Old Royal Naval College, a significant collection of buildings in the area.

Designed by renowned architects Sir Christopher Wren and Nicholas Hawksmoor in the 17th century, the Neoclassical architecture of the Old Royal Naval College is truly remarkable.

Take your time to stroll through the gardens and appreciate the beauty of the buildings. Along the way, you’ll come across statues of Sir Walter Raleigh and King George II.

If you wish, you can purchase a ticket to explore the interiors of the college buildings and witness the breathtaking Painted Hall. This 18th-century masterpiece by Sir James Thornhill covers an astonishing 40,000 square feet and showcases extravagant Baroque art.

After immersing yourself in the Old Royal Naval College, continue your delightful walk in Greenwich by heading between the two domed buildings of the college, facing away from the Thames.

The positioning of the buildings was done in a way that wouldn’t obstruct the view of the river from the Queen’s House, which you can observe across the street.

Once you reach Romney Road, carry on with your Greenwich walk by crossing over and passing through the National Maritime Museum Gardens.

If you’re interested, you can enter the National Maritime Museum, where you’ll find Admiral Nelson’s coat, complete with the bullet hole that ended his life. Entry to the museum is free.

If you choose not to enter the museum, head next door to the Queen’s House. This 17th-century architectural gem designed by Inigo Jones is renowned for its symmetrical Palladian style. Feel free to step inside to admire the artwork, as entry is also free.

Ascend the hill in Greenwich Park towards the Royal Observatory.

The uphill walk is rewarding, as it offers some of the finest views in London. From the top, you can marvel at the panorama that stretches from the Queen’s House, through the symmetrical structures of the Old Royal Naval College, to the towering skyscrapers of Canary Wharf.

While on the hill, take the opportunity to visit the Royal Observatory and learn about Greenwich Mean Time. You can even straddle the Prime Meridian with one foot on each side. The observatory also houses a planetarium.

Once you’ve explored the observatory, retrace your steps and turn left at the bottom of the hill to reach the Herb Garden. This tranquil green space provides a serene respite away from the bustling areas of the neighborhood. There’s a cafĂ© here if you’d like to take a break.

If you’re ready to continue your Greenwich walk, exit the park and cross Croom’s Hill, leading you to Gloucester Circus. Follow the circle, appreciating the charming doors along the way (the southern part is especially picturesque when the road splits).

When Gloucester Circus concludes, turn left onto Royal Hill. This street will guide you through more delightful side streets and local areas of Greenwich.

Take a left onto Royal Place, enjoying the beauty of the houses as you proceed. Then, turn right onto King George Street for further exploration, followed by another right onto Point Hill. At the end of Point Hill, turn right onto Royal Hill and continue along, passing pubs and shops.

Upon reaching Circus Street, turn left and stroll along the street, where you’ll encounter more lovely houses to admire. Keep your eyes peeled (and your camera ready if you have one).

When Circus Street comes to an end, turn right onto Greenwich Street. Follow the road, turning right as it becomes Greenwich High Road.

Greenwich Market is full of food stalls and craft shops.

Leave a Reply