Greenwich Park: A brief history and where to live nearby

The oldest of London’s eight Royal Parks and the site of the famous Greenwich Meridian, Greenwich Park is a significant London landmark. The park features wide open spaces and stunning, elevated viewing positions, taking in the dramatic East London skyline. Read our guide to the park to learn about this beloved landmark and discover the best places to live nearby.

A brief history of London’s oldest Royal Park

Like much of London’s parkland, Greenwich Park’s history begins as a hunting park. The land reverted to the Crown in 1427 and Henry VI built a house and a castle on the site. James I enclosed the park with brick walls, while in 1675, Charles II chose the park for his Royal Observatory.

The site of the observatory is where the Greenwich Meridian passes through the park. This is the geographical reference line that stretches around the globe from top to bottom, and indicates zero degrees longitude. At the northern edge of the park, the handsome structures of the Old Royal Naval College and the National Maritime Museum hint at the historic significance of this grand old site.

The park’s role in modern Greenwich life

Greenwich Park remains extremely popular, and a central aspect of life in the community of Greenwich. With its undulating slopes, tree-lined avenues, peaceful gardens, playground and boating pond, the park is a hive of continual activity. It also provides a magnificent view of the East London skyline, with its elevated viewpoint a must-visit for snap-happy tourists.

On a clear summer’s day, you’ll find many Greenwich residents joining the tourists on the park’s green lawns. It’s an ideal spot to soak up some sun and relax in the peaceful atmosphere across the park. The park also benefits from proximity from Greenwich’s vibrant town centre, with its famous market and various cafés, restaurants and bars.

Where to live near Greenwich Park

The areas surrounding the vast perimeter of Greenwich Park take in all facets of London life. There’s something to suit most budgets, and a good mix of grand, historic housing and modern, urban developments.

To the south, there’s the upmarket, trendy village vibe of Blackheath. East of the park, South London suburbia stretches for miles, while the diverse, urban communities of Lewisham, Deptford and New Cross are to the west. Slightly north of the park, the centre of Greenwich is home to a variety of handsome period houses and contemporary developments.

The average price of a property in Greenwich is £711,205, according to Zoopla. This is slightly below the London average of £727,743. In Blackheath, properties cost a similar average of £729,282, while Deptford property comes in at £823,773. Other options nearby include Lewisham at £550,238 and Charlton at £512,444.

Best new build developments near Greenwich Park

Let’s take a look at the highest-rated new build homes near Greenwich Park. If you’re interested in moving to the area, there are plenty of modern developments within easy reach of the park’s wide open spaces. Take a look below at the best new homes close to Greenwich Park, according to the reviews of verified residents.

Would you like to find out more about life in Greenwich? This sought-after corner of South East London offers vibrant community, a laid-back atmosphere and easy access to Central London. Take a look at our Greenwich guide below for more on life in this popular neighbourhood, and the best new build properties in the area.

HomeViews provides verified resident reviews of the UK’s housing developments. We’re working with developers, house builders, operators, housing associations and the Government to recognise high performers and help improve standards in the built environment.