Maritime Greenwich is awash with a fascinating history and rustic charm that makes it feel a world away, despite being just across the river from the business district of Canary Wharf and few miles from the City.  From cocktails to international cuisine and the Cutty Sark, here’s why I love Greenwich, and why you should too.

That big ship

No matter how many times I visit Greenwich I can’t help but pause for a few seconds to gaze up at the magnificent Cutty Sark.  This ship, listed as part of the National Historic Fleet (the nautical equivalent of a Grade 1 Listed Building), was one of the fastest of its time used primarily to ship tea from China to London.  As an avid tea lover, I salute you Cutty Sark.

Greenwich Market

Prepare for sensory overload at this bustling historic market.  Dive into the warren of stalls and you’ll find all sorts of eclectic arts and crafts, antiques and artisan jewellery as well as a myriad of sizzling stoves serving up a feast of international foodie delights.

Nautical stuff everywhere

From my anchor emblazoned bed sheets to my hanging wooden fish and my love of being on the water,  anyone who knows me knows I have a penchant for nautical things, and they just so happen to be everywhere in Greenwich.

The Royal Observatory

Not only was this the birth place of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), but it now houses an astrological museum that includes a brand new planetarium as well as all sorts of astrological and navigational tools, including the Great Equatorial Telescope.   And an added bonus of trekking up the hill are the breath-taking views over east and central London.

The Thames

I’ve always had a bit of an obsession with the Thames; from its history to its portrayal in literature (particularly Dickens’ Our Mutual Friend – read it!), to just standing on its banks staring out across the murky waves.  And Greenwich, steeped in all its maritime history, offers a pretty fine and atmospheric view over this iconic body of water.

My summer house

Gotcha! No, I don’t really summer here.  The Queen’s House is one of my favourite buildings in Greenwich, initially designed by Inigo Jones it is the first Palladian building in England and a pretty marvellous sight to behold.  Architecture in Greenwich is held in high regard and has come to symbolise the artistic and scientific endeavours of the 17^th and 18^th centuries.  You should also check out the regal gothic design of the Old Royal Naval College and surrounding buildings – stunning examples of the English Baroque style.

The Cooperage

Hidden in the Victorian cellars beneath the bustling streets this cocktail bar is second to none.  Not only does it have a magical atmosphere, making you feel like some kind of 19^th century smuggler, it boasts an unparalleled selection of cocktails.  The staff really know their stuff so if, by some crazy chance, you can’t find something you like they’ll whip you up a speciality drink tailored to your tastes.

The history

Greenwich has seen some things.  From a Bronze Age burial ground to Viking settlers, to the birth place of Henry VIII, and an astounding maritime history; Greenwich is an historical treasure trove which has sat at the heart of so many important events that have shaped the UK and the world around it.