DK Travel : London : South and West

The palaces that once graced London’s river to the south and west of the city centre were built in places that remain popular today, from Hampton Court and Richmond in the west, downriver to Greenwich. There, on a deep meander in the Thames, a vast Tudor palace was the dramatic first sight of the city for anyone arriving by ship. That palace has been replaced by Wren’s handsome Royal Naval College, a stunning riverside building that is the high point of this World Heritage Site and the start of the many delights of Greenwich Park. These include the Royal Observatory Greenwich, home of world time. Richmond’s palace has also disappeared, but opposite the Park lies Kew Palace in the grounds of the incomparable Royal Botanic Gardens. Chiswick House, Ham House and Syon House are the best of a number of palatial mansions near Richmond, while culture is catered for in the Dulwich Picture Gallery and the Horniman Museum.

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A Day Exploring Maritime Greenwich

Morning

Start the day from Westminster Pier, because the best way to arrive at Greenwich is by boat. The journey takes 50-60 minutes and there are terrific river sights on the way. The old tea clipper Cutty Sark is visible on arrival and worth an immediate visit. Afterwards step into the nearby Greenwich Gateway visitor centre to get your bearings.

Behind the visitor centre is Greenwich Market, which is liveliest on weekends. Grab a coffee here, and then explore the surrounding streets, full of antique and marine shops. Turn into Wren’s Old Royal Naval College, walk around the Grand Square, and then down to the river. Take a break for some lunch and a pint at the old Nelson Tavern on the far side of the Naval College overlooking the river.

Afternoon

After lunch, make your way back up to the National Maritime Museum and buy a combined ticket for this and the Royal Observatory Greenwich, which is on the hill behind. Spend a couple of hours exploring the fascinating museum, the largest of its kind in the world, then make your way to the Observatory. This is the home of world time, and stands on the Prime Meridian. You can be photographed with one foot in the eastern hemisphere and one in the west. Return to Central London by boat, or by rail from Greenwich.
Battersea Arts Centre

One of the main fringe theatre venues in the capital, with a huge programme of activities.
Battersea Park

Entertainments in this large park include a boating lake, a children’s zoo, sports facilities, and a gallery. There is also a woodland walk, nature reserve and therapy garden.
Brixton Market

This colourful market lies at the heart of London’s Caribbean community. The atmosphere is lively, with music stalls pumping out a variety of sounds, and the scent of aromatic ethnic foods. Look for secondhand vinyl, fresh produce and bargain fabrics.
Bush Bar and Grill

A thoroughly modern venue in an old-fashioned part of town. Great cocktails at the stylish bar, simple but good Anglo-French food in the restaurant.
Canyon

American dining by the river, with hearty American portions. Good for weekend roasts and brunch.
Chiswick House

This piece of Italy in London is a high spot of English 18th-century architecture. The square villa, with its dome and portico, was built for Lord Burlington, with beautifully painted interiors by William Kent. Temples, statues and a lake complete the Italianate gardens.
Dulwich Picture Gallery

This wonderful gallery is well worth the journey from Central London. Apart from the stunning collection, there are regular exhibitions, Thursday lunchtime lectures and friends events, usually including music, food and wine, to which anyone is welcome.
Firepower

An exciting new museum at the historic home of the Royal Artillery, there are hundreds of exhibits as well as a spectacular multi-media display.
Greenwich

The World Heritage Site of Greenwich includes Sir Christopher Wren’s Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich Park and the Royal Observatory Greenwich where the Prime Meridian, Longitude 0 , was established. In the fine park are the Queen’s Houseand National Maritime Museum. Greenwich has several excellent restaurants and marine-related shops as well as a market selling arts, crafts and antiques. The old tea clipper, theCutty Sark , is nearby.

Clock at Royal Observatory

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Restaurant price categories

For a three course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes, and extra charges.
- under £15
- £15–£25
- £25–£35
- £35–£50
- over £50