Ever wanted to see the actual coat that Admiral Nelson wore at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805?
The National Maritime Museum in Greenwich offers a peek into the worlds of sea-faring explorers over the last two thousand years. With four brand new galleries opened in September 2018, the museum now houses 1100 additional objects, so there’s never been a better time to visit.
Visit the Sackler Gallery and discover the history of Pacific exploration through artworks by William Hodges and George Stubbs. Learn the stories of voyagers, missionaries and Pacific Islanders who helped shape a more connected (though not always peaceful) world.
Head to the Kristian Gerhard Jebsen Gallery for the Polar Worlds exhibition. Learn about the challenges of exploration in the Arctic and Antarctic regions and hear the stories of the indigenous people who reside in the coldest places on Earth. See the effects of climate change on these habitats and find out what needs to be done to save them.
The Pigott Family Gallery houses the Tudor and Stuart Seafarers exhibition, where visitors can discover how Britain took to the seas to become a maritime nation. Experience the lives of famous figures such as Christopher Colombus, Francis Drake and Samuel Pepys. Learn about the colonisation of the ‘New Worlds’ and the devastating effects on their indigenous peoples. Hear stories from conflicts with the Spanish Armada and the Dutch and discover the legacy of the infamous English pirate, Blackbeard.
Be sure to make a stop at Sea Things, especially if you’re visiting with children. Many of the items in this exhibition are on open display, so your little ones can touch and interact with them. Take part in hands-on activities and discover stories of adventure through unique artefacts and objects.
Explore the museum at your leisure or book an expert tour to get the most out of your visit. The museum is family friendly and has three dedicated children’s galleries.
And after all that excitement, head to the museum’s Parkside Café and Terrace for a delicious lunch from their varied menu. Or book in for the Royal Afternoon Tea, served overlooking the Greenwich Royal Park.
The National Maritime Museum is just a 5-minute walk from the Cutty Sark DLR station.
Visit the National Maritime Museum and discover the rich history of Britain at sea.
The National Maritime Museum
Greenwich, London
SE10 9NF
Open daily 10 am to 5 pm