Maritime Greenwich - London
Designated a World Heritage Site in 1997.
Situated on London's River Thames, the ensemble of buildings at Greenwich and the park in which they are set, symbolise English artistic and scientific progress in the 17th and 18th centuries.
Greenwich is recognised for it's royal history (as the birthplace of Henry VIII and Elizabeth I); its naval and sea-faring history (the National Maritime Museum, Old Royal Naval College and the Cutty Sark are all within the World Heritage Site boundaries) and its scientific accomplishments - with Greenwich meantime and Longitude 0°, Greenwich is the centre of time and space.
Greenwich Park is the oldest royal park in London, and was laid out on the basis of an original design by André Le Nôtre. The park is home to the Old Royal Observatory, an example of the work of Sir Christopher Wren and the scientist Robert Hooke. Here, you can stand astride the Prime Meridian (Longitude 0°) with one foot in the eastern hemisphere and the other in the west.
Visitors from all over the world flock to Greenwich to appreciate the inspirational architecture, tranquil open spaces, exceptional museum collections, excellent shopping opportunities and a year-round calendar of events.
Greenwich's World Heritage status recognises that the buildings and park at Greenwich have been an important part of Britain's artistic and scientific history and European architecture at an important stage in its evolution.
Must see & do:
- Shakespeare's Globe Exhibition & Tour - Take a fascinating look into the world-famous Globe Theatre and life in Shakespeare's London in your behind-the-scenes tour.
- Queen's House - This was the first Palladian building in England, and is the work of Inigo Jones. It currently contains extensive art collections of the National Maritime Museum.
- Greenwich Market - Don't forget to visit this world-famous market with its stalls full of everything from antiques to bric-a-brac.
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Get your Great British Heritage Pass
For any of you garden lovers or those planning a history or heritage themed trip around Britain, the essential "buy before you leave" product is the Great British Heritage Pass. Providing free entry into over 580 castles, gardens and stately homes across the length and breadth of Britain, it really is the key to unlocking Britain's secrets.
For full details and to order click here.