Explore the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich — uncover Britain’s naval history, heroic explorers, and maritime treasures. Free entry daily!

Visit the National Maritime Museum Greenwich

Ever wondered how Britain’s relationship with the sea shaped the modern world? The National Maritime Museum Greenwich brings this story vividly to life — from epic voyages of discovery to the daily lives of sailors and explorers.

Located in the heart of Maritime Greenwich, the museum is one of London’s most captivating free attractions.

Britain’s Story of the Sea

The National Maritime Museum opened in 1937 and today houses one of the largest maritime collections in the world. Its galleries explore trade, travel, empire, and innovation — showing how Britain’s history is inseparable from the ocean.

Set within elegant neoclassical buildings overlooking Greenwich Park, the museum is part of the Royal Museums Greenwich family, alongside the Royal Observatory, Queen’s House, and Cutty Sark.

What to See
Unmissable Highlights

Nelson, Navy, Nation Gallery – Discover the life of Admiral Lord Nelson and the story of the Battle of Trafalgar.

Sea Things – Explore everyday life at sea through artefacts, tools, and personal stories.

Polar Worlds – Follow explorers like Scott and Shackleton into the icy extremes of the poles.

Maritime Art Gallery – See seascapes, ship portraits, and paintings by J.M.W. Turner.

Children’s Galleries (AHOY! & All Hands) – Hands-on exhibits designed especially for families.

The Great Map

At the heart of the museum lies The Great Map, a giant interactive world map where you can trace the routes of explorers, trade ships, and migration journeys.

With digital tablets and touchscreen displays, it’s an engaging, educational experience for both adults and children.

Heroes of the Sea

The museum’s treasures tell stories of courage and discovery:

Admiral Nelson’s Trafalgar uniform, preserved with the bullet hole from his final battle.

Prince Frederick’s Barge, a royal ceremonial vessel from the 1700s.

John Harrison’s sea clocks, which solved the problem of longitude and changed navigation forever.

Each artefact reveals how Britain became a global maritime power.

Family Fun and Learning

The museum is designed to inspire curiosity in all ages. Kids can climb aboard mini-ships, play sailor games, and enjoy storytelling sessions, while adults explore in-depth exhibitions and attend evening talks.

Regular programmes include:

Astronomy and navigation workshops.

Family craft days and festivals.

Special exhibitions on maritime art, migration, and exploration.

Plan Your Visit

Entry: Free (charges apply for temporary exhibitions).

Location: Romney Road, Greenwich, London SE10 9NF.

Transport: DLR to Cutty Sark, train to Greenwich Station, or River Bus to Greenwich Pier.

Facilities: Café, gift shop, accessible routes, and guided tours.

Combine your visit with nearby attractions such as the Royal Observatory, Queen’s House, and Cutty Sark — all within a few minutes’ walk.

You will find more information on the Official Royal Museums Greenwich website

Why Visit the National Maritime Museum?

The National Maritime Museum is more than a museum — it’s an exploration of human ambition, discovery, and resilience. From the triumphs of explorers to the artistry of shipbuilding, it celebrates Britain’s enduring connection to the sea.

Step into the stories that shaped an island nation — and sail through centuries of adventure at the National Maritime Museum Greenwich.