---

Greenwich’s best museums and artworks to visit on a cold, rainy day

Marvel at Baroque artworks in the Painted Hall
 

The astonishing Painted Hall is a cultural treasure within the Old Royal Naval College, with 3700 square metres of paintings dating from 1707 covering the walls and ceiling in this former dining room for naval pensioners. Sign up for a talk with an expert guide to learn more of the rich history and compelling stories of the characters featured in the artworks.

Visit the galleries at the National Maritime Museum

It’s easy to fill a rainy day at the NHM. From Tudor seafarers’ stories of endeavour  to the history of polar exploration, tour 10 galleries that hold a collection of items that have shaped our world today. Don’t miss the world’s greatest space photography at the ZWO Astronomy Photographer of the Year exhibition, which is running until August 2026.

Learn about beautiful craft and culture at the Fan Museum

The award-winning Fan Museum – housed in two Grade II-listed Georgian period townhouses – is a one-of-a-kind treasure dedicated to the history, culture and craft of the fan. See its collection of beautiful and intricate designs from across the ages.

Stand the test of time at the Royal Observatory 

Since 1884, all distances east and west have been measured from the Prime Meridian line established at the Royal Observatory, transforming how we explore our world. Learn all about time through the items on display along with live science and astronomy demonstrations.

---

Greenwich’s best things to do on a rainy day

Shop for unique items and tasty food at Greenwich Market

One of London’s best-loved places to shop, the character-filled covered alleyways and boutique stores at Greenwich Market are ideal for buying thoughtful gifts, shopping for new styles and fashions, and trying flavours from across the world.

Buy brands at budget prices at The O2 Outlet

From Le Creuset kitchenware and Bedeck bed linen to Levi’s jeans and Reiss’ classy clothing, find your favourite homewear, fashion and beauty brands with up to 70% off at Outlet Shopping at The O2. 

Be entertained by a performance at Greenwich Theatre

With a year-round programme of puppet shows, live music and singalongs alongside vibrant plays, poetry and pantomime, Greenwich Theatre is one of London’s foremost Off-West End theatres.

Attend a free lunchtime concert at St Alfege Church 

St Alfege Church has a longstanding relationship with performers from Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, as well as other local, national and international musicians. Free lunchtime recitals take place most Thursdays and Saturdays.

Test that memory with a pub quiz at Richard the First

Soak in the warm and friendly vibes at Richard the First pub on Royal Hill, serving guest ales, craft beers and fine wines. Bring your pals on Tuesday night for the quiz – £3 per player, max 6 per team – with a £75 bar tab as the winning prize. 

Bounce your way through Oxygen Activeplay

Don’t let the rain ruin a family day out! Oxygen Activeplay has two floors and nine zones of trampolines, foam pits and dodgeball courts for the little ones to burn off energy. Feeling brave? Try the exclusive High Rope aerial experience.

---

Fill your belly with warmth in Greenwich’s cosy places to eat 

Snack day and night at Visitors' Book Café, Woolwich Works

One of London’s top new culture hubs, Woolwich Works hosts theatre, dance, live music, art and comedy events in the Grade II-listed Royal Arsenal. Stop by the Visitors’ Book Café for hot drinks, light snacks or an evening menu of sharing plates with beer, wine, cider and spirits.

Treat yourself to pastries at Cakes & Layers, Greenwich Peninsula

For fine patisserie alongside a warming cup of coffee, grab a seat right by the Thames at the Greenwich Peninsula edition of Cakes & Layers. Here, delicious croissants, macarons and buns are created by talented pastry chefs – and Greenwich locals – Thu Ha and Clément. 

Taste the British menu at Trafalgar Tavern, Greenwich

The historic Trafalgar Tavern is known for its outdoor riverside seating, but there are plenty of warm and comfy seats inside too. Stop by for a drink, something from the bar menu or indulge in a tasty roast dinner on a Sunday. 

Savour stylish Japanese dining at Sticks’n’Sushi, Greenwich

 Delight in expertly crafted sushi, grilled yakitori sticks and seasonal small plates inspired by Danish-Japanese flavours. With fresh sashimi, vibrant rolls and elegant cocktails, it’s a perfect choice for lunch, dinner or social nights out by the river.

Have a cuppa at the Cutty Sark Café

After you’ve dodged the rain up on the main deck of the Cutty Sark, grab a soothing cup of hot chocolate or indulge in a cream tea in the café beneath the ship’s copper hull. Open to ticket holders only.