There’s always lots of fun to be had for families in Greenwich, from family-friendly museums and award-winning attractions to great London parks.
With all the museums only a short walk from each other, it's easy to cut down on travel time and make the most of a day out. Child-friendly cafés, buggy parks and changing facilities also make visiting Greenwich with kids a breeze.
Not sure where to start? Keep scrolling for our suggested itinerary for a family day out in Greenwich. How much you do is up to you! If you find there's more to explore, you can always become a Family Member and get unlimited year-round entry for a bargain price.
10am: Step aboard Cutty Sark
Your Greenwich journey starts on board Cutty Sark, one of the last surviving tea clippers and the fastest sailing ship of its time.
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The visitor route starts in the Lower Hold of the ship, then winds its way through the 'Tween Deck. On the way, you’ll find a range of fun interactive exhibits and games that will explain the history of the ship. A free audio guide helps bring the stories to life.
Arriving on the Main Deck, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of Canary Wharf and the Thames, where you can snap some special photos for the family album.
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As you explore, you might meet vibrant characters from Cutty Sark’s past including Captain Woodget and the ship’s cook James Robson, who’ll regale you with tales of life on board the iconic tea clipper.
Take a look around Cutty Sark’s Main Deck – marvel at the 11 miles of rigging swaying overhead, and give the children an experience of historic life at sea that will ignite their imaginations.
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In the Dry Berth, say hello to the Cutty Sark figureheads, part of the world's largest collection of ship figureheads.
Reach up and touch the shiny copper hull of the ship, which prevented barnacles and molluscs from burrowing into and damaging the hull's structure.
Before you head out, you can grab a snack and a hot drink from the Cutty Sark Café if you need fuel for the next part of your adventure.
12pm: Grab lunch in the Museum
Head over to the National Maritime Museum, just a five-minute walk from Cutty Sark. Enjoy views of the UNESCO World Heritage buildings in Greenwich, including the Old Royal Naval College, as you go.
Two family-friendly cafés are conveniently located in the National Maritime Museum, so you can easily get lunch whenever you're ready for a break.
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The Parkside Café in the National Maritime Museum is bright and spacious, with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking Greenwich Park.
On offer is a range of hot food and drinks, sandwiches, cakes, plus a dedicated children's menu. The Museum shop is close by, featuring eco-friendly toys, children's books and gifts.
Or head to the Ocean Court Café and tuck into freshly prepared sandwiches, toasted Romana flatbreads and homemade cakes, or grab a children’s lunchbox.
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1pm: Explore Greenwich Park
Go for a walk around Greenwich Park, home to stunning views, open green spaces, blooming flowers and so much more.
The maritime-themed playground is just past the Queen's House at the bottom edge of the park, while the small boating lake nearby is a treat in summer.
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If you've got plenty of energy, the view of London from outside the Royal Observatory (temporarily closed for an exciting renovation project) is worth the climb up the hill, though be aware it's a fairly steep walk!
Take a look at the Observatory's unique 24-hour Shepherd Gate Clock, which is still visible during the renovation works.
2pm: Explore the National Maritime Museum
The Museum is perfect for families, so much so that it was named Best Large Museum in the Family Friendly Museum Awards 2022!
If you want guidance for your visit, pick up a family trail from the 'Play and Explore' trolley and let it guide you through the Museum, delving into the items and stories within the galleries as you make your way around.
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Visit the 'Sea Things' gallery, which holds over 600 objects including talking sculptures. Explore the maritime world through interactive exhibits, objects you can play with and touch, plus a host of activities and quizzes.
You can travel the world through the various galleries at the National Maritime Museum, exploring everywhere from the icy Arctic to the islands of the Pacific.
Find some time to play on the Ocean Map. Sometimes referred to as a 'map of the world according to fish', the Map is designed to show us how all the world's oceans are connected. While you're there, you can discover some of the weird and wonderful creatures in the ocean!
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Book tickets and head inside Astronomers Take Over at the National Maritime Museum, a multi-zone, family-friendly experience for little space lovers! Meet real astronomers, learn about landing a Mars rover, use a starlight splitter and step inside a glittering ‘galaxy box’.
This experience is open every day except Tuesdays and Fridays, but check the booking calendar ahead of time to see when you can book.
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If it's a nice day the Cove playground is perfect for younger children. Let your children's imaginations run wild at this new outdoor playground. Clamber aboard the ship and take the wheel, spin on the compass roundabout, scramble through the mighty Kraken’s tentacles and come face to face with the giant Cutty Shark!
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Family Membership starts from just £56. Get free entry to Cutty Sark for a whole year, plus exclusive access to Member events and discounts in our shops and cafes.