Greenwich is the center of the British world. No really...it's home to the Greenwich Mean Time (i.e. the Prime Meridian). It's a cute little area about 10 minutes outside of Central London by boat.
Wherever you are staying in London or Greater London I suggest taking a boat to Greenwich from Westminster Pier (right across the street from Big Ben and across the river from the London Eye) or St. Katherine's Dock (beside the Tower Bridge and Palace Grounds). The boat ride is approximately thirty minutes, but allows you to see many great sights from a different perspective. Big Ben, the London Eye, London Bridge, Ladies' Bridge...all of the other bridges the English seem so fond of building... the Globe Theatre, the Tate Modern and so many other places back up to the Thames. It's worth the small boat fee. If you get on the right boat you may even get a witty tour guide that points out all of the best pubs along the river. Some are over 200 years old!
Once in Greenwich there are plenty of places to explore. We didn't have a lot of time so we didn't do much. If you're an astronomy nerd (Don't be ashamed. I am) be sure to stop by the Astronomy Centre and for no less than 8.50 you can visit the Royal Observatory!!! Here you can stand in two hemispheres at the SAME TIME!!!! oooooohhhh.....ahhhhhh.....
OR
If you're a relatively broke graduate student studying abroad in an expensive city you can walk through the back gate for free. If you approach the observatory from the back there is a small gate where you can still stand in two hemispheres without giving up a tenner. It's probably where people took pictures before Greenwich installed the big metal sculpture in the first picture, but it makes you feel a little rebellious AND its free. So go this route if you're on a budget.
OR
If you're a relatively broke graduate student studying abroad in an expensive city you can walk through the back gate for free. If you approach the observatory from the back there is a small gate where you can still stand in two hemispheres without giving up a tenner. It's probably where people took pictures before Greenwich installed the big metal sculpture in the first picture, but it makes you feel a little rebellious AND its free. So go this route if you're on a budget.
Now that you've been in both parts of the world at the same time (and Instagramed it) head into town to check out the market. It's open every Saturday and Sunday and sells everything from fashion to food. Find handmade goods or antique furniture. On your way back to the boat stop by the Pavilion Cafe for an afternoon tea and a scone with jam and cream. It won't break your budget and the scones are a perfect way to end your English day.
Discover more about Greenwich
Discover more about Greenwich
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