Greenwich is an area of inner south-east London, lying on the south bank of the River Thames. It is steeped in history and for centuries has been a place of maritime power, since being one of the official royal residences and home of Greenwich Mean Time. It is also a place of parks and gardens, culture, restaurants and festivals and it is the perfect place to explore on a first date.
1. Greenwich parks and places for a walk on a first date
Greenwich Park is an iconic part of the area and is the perfect place to take your date for a romantic walk. The park covers 74 acres of grounds, with beautiful views of the River Thames, the city skyline and Queen's House and the National Maritime Museum. You can take a romantic stroll along the tree-lined avenues and explore the flower beds, fountains and ponds. There is also an attractive walled garden and free guided tours, so you can learn more about the history of the area on your date.
2. Places for a coffee date in Greenwich
Greenwich is brimming with quaint and cozy coffee shops, perfect for a first date. The Runaway Coffee Shack serves top-notch coffee, has a relaxed and cozy atmosphere and a list of tasty treats. You can also try the unique Ship Hotel, which is an old, rustic pub with a modern twist. Here you can enjoy an espresso or a cappuccino in the bar or out in the garden. If you’re looking for something a bit different, try the G&Tea parlour, which combines traditional tea drinking with craft beer and cocktails.
3. Greenwich galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Greenwich is home to some fantastic galleries and museums, and a great way to get to know your date better is to visit one together. The National Maritime Museum is one of the most popular attractions in the area and it’s the perfect place to learn about the history and culture of the area. The museum tells the story of Britain’s seafaring past through its incredible exhibits, interactive displays and film screenings. You can also explore the Royal Observatory Greenwich, and learn about astronomy, navigation and time-telling.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Greenwich
Greenwich has a vibrant music and entertainment scene, and there are a variety of venues catering to different tastes. The Half Moon is a great place to catch a live performance or have a few drinks. The music venue hosts a range of music acts, from acoustic sets to indie and alternative rock. You can also find the O2 Academy to the north of the area, which hosts regular events with big names in music.
5. Greenwich pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
Greenwich has an abundance of restaurants, bars and pubs for a first date drink or meal. The Trafalgar Tavern is a traditional pub with a friendly atmosphere, offering a menu of traditional British dishes and ale. The Plateau Restaurant and Bar offers spectacular views of the Thames and excellent French-style cuisine. The Meantime Brewing Company is also a great option if your date is into craft beer and if you’d rather stay in, the Greenwich Pantry delivers a variety of delicious meals to your doorstep.
6. Other date ideas to try in Greenwich
If you’d like to explore the area outside of the typical pubs, bars and museums, there are plenty of other fun activities to do in Greenwich. Hop on a water taxi and take a ride along the Thames, or try Stand Up Paddleboarding at Greenwich Reach or the Thames Barrier. You can also explore the area’s independent shops, cafes and markets or visit the Cutty Sark and learn about the history of this famous tea clipper. Finally, take a romantic stroll along the Greenwich Peninsula and admire the views of the city skyline.
