Days Out: National Maritime Museum

Explore England’s rich naval history and enjoy family fun at the National Maritime Museum in the heart of Greenwich. 

National Maritime Museum in the Royal London Borough of Greenwich is dedicated to England’s rich naval history. When we have a free weekend, this place is always my go-to museum as it is a short DLR journey away. There’s always so much to do and see in Greenwich that is easy to spend a full day here. There’s always the fabulous Greenwich Park and playground. And if you are feeling peckish, there are plenty of riverside eateries for a Sunday pub lunch.

Britain’s Rich Naval History

Thanks to the one-way system, I visited gallery by gallery across three floors of the National Maritime Museum. Expertly curated, there’s so much to explore and learn about England’s maritime history. From the Pacific Encounters to the Atlantic Ocean and the Polar Worlds, from ships, boats and canoes, each gallery packs treasure troves and interesting artefacts. 

There’s a whole area dedicated to the life of Lord Admiral Horatio Nelson. You can see the uniform worn by the famous Admiral who was fatally wounded in the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. Military history may not be of interest for my little pre-schooler, but it is fascinating for us adults who love British history.  

Children’s Activities 

The National Maritime Museum is a great place for children as the museum organises numerous kid-friendly workshops. Over the years, I have attended Lunar New Year celebrations, “Play Tuesdays” for under 5s and themed “stories” sessions. Be sure to regularly check the National Maritime Museum’s website for their calendar of events. 

AHOY Hands-On Gallery

The hands-on AHOY gallery is an interactive play area for young children. Tucked away on the ground floor, the AHOY gallery features a boat with its own figurehead. Children get an immersive experience of the life of a sailor onboard a big ship. In addition to the engine room and a seafood marketplace, there’s also the galley where young “sailors” can cook on an open “fire” and “fix” their boat. The 45 minute session tickets must be pre-booked. Entrance is free weekdays during term-time and £3 on weekends and school holidays.

The Great Map, Children’s Gallery and Parkside Cafe

On the second floor is an open terrace featuring the museum’s giant atlas. It is a big space where kiddos can run around and “explore” the seven seas and seven continents. I always like to point out where our extended family lives and all the places she has visited from Mauritius to the Dominican Republic. There are also plenty of tables if the little ones need a snack break. 

Another area that is fun for children is the All Hands Children Galley on the second floor of West Wing. There’s a series of interactive games for older children. Sitting on a crane, children can pretend to be workers loading and unloading cargo from the port. 

After a fun-filled day exploring and playing at the National Maritime Museum, I like getting coffee and cake at the Parkside Cafe. On a gorgeous sunny day, it is best to sit outside and enjoy the fresh air whilst gazing at the large  “ship in the bottle” aka the replica of HMS Victory where Admiral Nelson died. And if you need to burn off more energy, take a walk up the Royal Observatory for amazing views of Canary Wharf. 

Ahoy! Enjoy the National Maritime Museum.