Get into Greenwich Park

Greenwich Park, one of London’s eight Royal Parks and the gorgeously green centrepiece of the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site, is looking lovelier than ever. A former royal hunting ground where Henry VIII once chased deer, the 180-acre Park was laid out in baroque style by Charles II in the 1660s. Centuries of visitors and weather had taken taken their toll on the sculpted parkland, but the ‘Greenwich Park Revealed’ project has brought it back to the original vision of André Le Nôtre, the visionary landscape architect who laid out the gardens at Versailles. Offering a delightful experience all year round, here are some of Greenwich Park’s must-see highlights, including exciting new features that you won’t want to miss on your next visit!

1. The Grand Ascent

Previously at risk of being lost forever, The Grand Ascent is a series of 36m-wide giant grass ‘steps’ rising up the hill on which The Royal Observatory sits. Part of the Park’s original landscape design commissioned by King Charles II, the Ascent had been worn away through centuries of sightseeing. The steps have now been restored, along with the tree-lined parterres that beautifully frame the approach to the classical Queen’s House.

2. Wolfe Piazza

The platform surrounding the iconic statue of General Wolfe next to the Royal Observatory has been newly transformed into a stunning, piazza-style space. A spot well-known for its panoramic views of London with Queen’s House and Old Royal Naval College in the foreground, Canary Wharf in the midground and the City in the distance, it’s one of the classic vistas that should to be top of everyone’s London bucket list.

3. One Tree Hill

Another famous viewing point that has inspired artists including the great J.M.W. Turner is One Tree Hill. Back in the days of the Greenwich Fair, a riotous three-day Easter festival, One Tree Hill and Observatory Hill were used for ‘tumbling’. This breakneck ‘sport’ saw couples fling themselves down the slopes at speed, often ending in a tangle of limbs and injuries! Today, it’s ideal for a short climb leading to more unforgettable views of Greenwich, Canary Wharf and London.

4. Queen Elizabeth Oak

Tree-lined Lovers’ Lane leads deeper into the Park, towards the site of an ancient Roman Temple and the famous ‘Queen Elizabeth Oak’. Dated to 1290, this venerable tree is said to have witnessed Henry VIII courting Anne Boleyn. It’s one of more than 3000 oaks, elms, sweet chestnuts and other trees that grace the Park, adding to the rich tapestry of greenery that make it a serene and historic escape in the heart of London.

5. The Flower Garden

Laid out in the 1890s, the Flower Garden is one of the Park’s ‘horticultural show pieces’, with elegant beds of tulips and other seasonal blooms surrounded by cedars and groomed lawns. Refreshments are close to hand here, at the brand new Ignatius Sancho Café – named for the extraordinary ex-slave who became a prominent abolitionist, writer and composer in Georgian London.

6. The Rose Garden

Cross over Blackheath Road and you’ll find more delightful diversions, including six pay-and-play hardcourt tennis courts, Greenwich Park Cricket Ground, and the stunning Rose Garden. Laid out in a semi-circular design, these hybrid tea and floribunda roses are in peak bloom in June and July.

7. Ranger’s House

Immediately beyond The Rose Garden is the handsome, Georgian Ranger’s House, as featured in Netflix’s Bridgerton. Much more than just its famous frontage, this dignified villa houses the Wernher Collection, a world-class art collection of Victorian businessman, Sir Julius Wernher.

8. World class museums

And, of course, the Ranger’s House is only one of many essential sights scattered around and within Greenwich Park. The Royal Observatory (home to the Prime Meridian of the World), Peter Harrison Planetarium, National Maritime Museum, Queen’s House and Fan Museum are all well worth a visit in their own right.

Whatever the season, and whether it’s a family outing, a lovers’ stroll, a few sets of tennis, a picnic with friends or a cultural excursion, Greenwich Park has so much to offer.