Naval College Gardens
Riverside gardens and baroque architecture in Greenwich
At a Glance
Best Ages
All ages
Cost
Free
Time Needed
1–3 hours
Indoor/Outdoor
Outdoor
Weather Fit
Best in dry weather; open all year
Stroller Access
Yes, step-free paths
Washrooms
On-site with baby change
Food
Cafés and pub nearby
Parking
Limited; public pay parking nearby
Booking
Not required for grounds
Parent Effort
Low (supervised free play)
A wonderfully relaxed family outing with space to run, historic surroundings to admire, and no entry cost. The riverside setting and Wren architecture make it feel special, while the free grounds mean you can come and go as you please.
About This Place
The grounds of the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, London, include formal gardens and wide-open parkland at the riverside, free to access at any time. The beautiful baroque architecture designed by Christopher Wren frames the lawn between the Thames and the National Maritime Museum. A lovely spot for a family walk, with the Painted Hall and Chapel of the ORNC open for visitors, and Greenwich Park and the Royal Observatory just up the hill.
Official Website open_in_new- Monday – Sunday
- 08:00 – 23:00
Hours were last verified in 2026. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date opening times.
- Admission
- FREE
Prices were last verified in 2026. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date rates.
Wide open lawns
Plenty of space for children to run, picnic, and play safely with Thames views.
Free entry
The gardens are completely free to visit, making it an easy budget-friendly day out.
Historic setting
Stunning baroque buildings by Christopher Wren create a memorable backdrop.
Family trails
Free activity booklets and sensory backpacks available for younger visitors.
Good to Know Before You Go
- Painted Hall tickets
- Entry to the Painted Hall is charged; kids 16 and under go free
- Baby changing
- Available in on-site toilets
- Buggy parking
- Available near the Painted Hall and Undercroft
- Skittle Alley
- Open daily 12pm–3pm; free to use
- Lift note
- Lift to the Painted Hall is currently unavailable due to a technical fault
- Food options
- Undercroft Café, Visitor Centre Café, and The Old Brewery pub on site
- Picnics welcome
- You are welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy on the lawns
Kid Fit by Age
Smooth paths for prams, baby changing facilities, and plenty of space for a gentle stroll.
Wide lawns to toddle on, sensory backpacks, and free family trails.
Space to run, interactive trails, and hands-on museum displays nearby.
Family trails, skittle alley, and fascinating history to explore.
Interesting architecture, museum exhibits, and riverside walks.
Historic significance, film-location spotting, and Greenwich attractions nearby.
Insider Tips
Pick up a free family trail booklet from the Visitor Centre to keep children engaged
Combine your visit with Greenwich Park and the Royal Observatory just up the hill
Check the 'What's On' page for special family events during school holidays
- •The grounds are open to the public and unfenced near the riverside — keep children within sight
- •Historic buildings and cobbled areas may be slippery when wet
- •Wide open spaces can get busy during events and peak tourist season
- •Supervise children near the Thames riverbank
- •Step-free paths throughout the grounds
- •Lift access to the Painted Hall is currently unavailable due to a technical fault
- •Accessible parking for blue badge holders in Park Row car park
- •Ear defenders and sensory support available for neurodiverse visitors
schedule Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings are the quietest time to enjoy the grounds. Weekends and school holidays are busier but livelier, with more families and occasional events.
shopping_bag What to Bring
- check_boxA picnic blanket and snacks for the lawns
- check_boxSunscreen and hats in summer
- check_boxA camera for the stunning architecture and river views
- check_boxComfortable shoes for walking around the historic site
- check_boxA light jacket as the riverside can be breezy
Location
Address
2 Cutty Sark Gardens, London SE10 9LW, United Kingdom
Phone
+442082694747
Make it a half-day
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Last checked: 2026