It may be just a few miles from Central London; but emerald-hued Greenwich can feel a world away from the buzz of the capital. This south-east slice sits close to the River Thames looking out towards Canary Wharf, and is blanketed in green. A World Heritage Site, this place packs in architectural wonders and historic sites at every turn. Read on to discover the developments rated as some of the best places to live in Greenwich.
World-famous sights
It’s best-known as the home of Greenwich Mean Time (or GMT), and the Prime Meridian Line of the earth. Millions flock to see where east meets west every year at The Royal Observatory in Greenwich Park; the oldest and most loved of the Royal Parks. This 74-hectare expanse offers some of the best views in the capital from its hilltop peak. Along with ample picnic space and nature trails, it’s got a spectacular art collection, a beautiful boating lake and a planetarium.
Greenwich’s nautical connections
As one of the London Dockland’s boroughs, Greenwich has a rich maritime history, best depicted in the regal-looking National Maritime Museum. The Cutty Sark, one of the borough’s most visited attractions, is the world’s last remaining clipper ship. Built back in 1869 and used to transport tea across the waters from Asia to England; it’s now used for tours and you can take afternoon tea under the hull.
Greenwich Market
Modern day Greenwich life plays out wonderfully at Greenwich Market, where smiley vendors tout vintage clothing, bric-a-brac and sizzling street food. Speaking of food, the area has a top dining scene, with an especially generous helping of sleek brasseries and gastropubs. Head to the riverside for the best vistas.
Travel to and from
Transport is one of the area’s big selling points, and options are vast whether you’re on wheels or water. North Greenwich tube is on the Jubilee line, while Cutty Sark and Greenwich stations have DLR connections to the City and Docklands. You can also catch river buses from Cutty Sark and North Greenwich to London Bridge and Canary Wharf.
The Greenwich population
Victorian terraced houses and reputable schooling have been attracting families here for years. Recently, there’s been a wave of young professionals, putting down roots for convenient London links and waterfront apartments. And that mix of occupants and something-for-all mantra is all part of the area’s charm.
“My fiance grew up in Greenwich so we have family nearby and we can both easily commute to work on the jubilee line which makes our commute easy. By the time we move in we are planning to start a family and the excellent ratings for the nursery and schools were also a big factor in us buying here.” – Flora, viewer at Greenwich Millennium Village
Buying and renting in Greenwich
The residential scene is growing steadily. Greenwich Peninsula, a 150-acre purpose-built neighbourhood by Knight Dragon will (when complete) introduce 15,000 new-build homes to SE10, spread across seven quarters. Also arriving is riverfront restaurants and bars, a new Design District, a 5km running track, and a yacht club; not to mention several pockets of green space. The homes here range from sleek studios to waterfront townhouses, so there’s a floorplan to suit all budgets and backgrounds. No wonder this development is rated as one of the best places to rent and live in Greenwich.
“When you live in Greenwich next to the river and the Greenwich Ecology Park it doesn’t feel like full on city living and instead I have the best of both worlds. My commute is easy which was important to me as I can walk and avoid the joys of rush hour! Buses are on my doorstep and the convenience to the Jubilee line, and the ability to get anywhere in London quickly.” – Jack, verified resident at Greenwich Peninsula
Nearby there’s Greenwich Millennium Village, a joint venture from Countryside and Taylor Wimpey Central London. This residential community has a village square at its heart and a gorgeous riverfront setting; not to mention a nursery, school, health centre and a range of shops and restaurants.
“Many developments we looked at felt like they were just a faceless high rise and we wanted to make friends and meet like minded people. Greenwich Millennium Village has been perfect for us, with so many facilities on site and the open park areas you don’t feel that you are living in a city. We have also made lots of friends through the nursery and primary school.” – Margot, resident at Greenwich Millennium Village
