At Romney Road in Greenwich, the National Maritime Museum traces Britain’s connections with the sea through paintings, maps, ship models and historic objects. Its collection includes more than two million items, among them Admiral Nelson’s uniform from the Battle of Trafalgar. Children can explore hands-on galleries such as AHOY and Sea Things, while adults can see works including J.M.W. Turner’s large painting of the battle. General admission is free, and the museum sits beside Greenwich Park, close to the Queen’s House and Cutty Sark.
A collection shaped by the sea
The National Maritime Museum is part of Royal Museums Greenwich, alongside the Royal Observatory, the Queen’s House and Cutty Sark. Its collection brings together more than two million objects connected to Britain’s maritime history. Paintings, charts, manuscripts, models and scientific instruments show how people travelled, navigated, traded and fought at sea.
The galleries cover a wide range of subjects, from exploration and naval battles to trade and life aboard ships. Displays also address difficult chapters, including the Atlantic slave trade. The museum’s approach connects maritime history with the people and events behind it, rather than treating ships and equipment as isolated objects.
Key objects and artworks
One of the most closely watched objects is the uniform Admiral Nelson wore at the Battle of Trafalgar. It has a visible bullet hole, a reminder of the battle and Nelson’s death. The museum also displays J.M.W. Turner’s large painting of Trafalgar, alongside ship models, navigational instruments and vivid ship figureheads.
Other highlights include Yinka Shonibare’s Ship in a Bottle, a work once displayed on Trafalgar Square’s Fourth Plinth. The collection also ranges beyond naval uniforms and paintings: accounts of the museum include maps, maritime manuscripts, a Fijian canoe and objects linked to exploration. The selection gives you several ways into the subject, whether you are drawn to art, design, technology or naval history.
Interactive galleries for children
Families can add hands-on activities to a visit through galleries including AHOY and Sea Things. AHOY is designed for younger children, while All Hands has interactive activities for children aged 6 to 12. In the children’s galleries, play can involve loading cargo, signalling between ships or taking the role of a ship’s crew. Older children can try ship-simulator activities that introduce steering and navigation.
A large floor map gives children a way to explore the world through movement and interactive play. Family trails and backpacks are also available to help guide a visit through the galleries. Children’s spaces and activities can have separate arrangements from general admission, so check the museum’s current booking information before setting out.
Planning your visit in Greenwich
General entry to the museum is free. The address is Romney Road, London, SE10 9NF, on the edge of Greenwich Park. You can make the museum part of a wider day in the area: the Queen’s House and Cutty Sark are nearby, and Greenwich Park provides space to walk after time indoors.
The museum is large, with enough galleries and interactive displays to fill several hours. A guided tour can add context to the objects and their history. Weekdays and quieter periods are a sensible choice if you prefer to explore with fewer family groups around. Check the museum’s website for current details about children’s gallery access and any ticketed activities before travelling.
FAQ
Is the National Maritime Museum free to enter?
General admission is free. Some galleries or activities may have separate ticket or booking arrangements, so check before your visit.
How long should I allow for the National Maritime Museum?
Allow around 2 to 3 hours to explore. The museum has a large collection and interactive areas for children.
What can children do at the museum?
Children can explore interactive spaces including AHOY and Sea Things. Activities include maritime play and ship-simulator experiences; check current booking arrangements for children’s galleries.
What are the museum’s main highlights?
Look for Admiral Nelson’s uniform from Trafalgar, Turner’s painting of the battle, ship models, figureheads, maps and navigational instruments.
