Greenwich has a long history of royal and military institutions, many of which helped shape Britain’s maritime and defence heritage.
Some of these buildings are still in use today, while others have taken on new public roles.
Royal Hospital for Seamen
The Royal Hospital for Seamen opened in 1694 and was designed by Sir Christopher Wren. It provided care for elderly and injured seamen.
The hospital closed in 1869 as medical care improved and demand reduced.
From 1873 to 1997, the building was home to the Royal Naval College. It is now part of the University of Greenwich.
Find out more about the Royal Hospital for Seamen
Royal Observatory
The Royal Observatory was commissioned by King Charles II to support navigation, map-making and timekeeping.
The foundation stone was laid in 1675 by the first Astronomer Royal, John Flamsteed.
The observatory became the global reference point for time zones when Greenwich was chosen as the Prime Meridian.
It later moved to Sussex due to pollution in London.
Find out more about the Royal Observatory
Royal Dockyard
The Royal Dockyard at Woolwich opened in 1512 under Henry VIII. It built its first ship in 1514 and remained active until 1869.
Over time, low river levels made the site unsuitable for large vessels, leading to its closure.
Find out more about Royal Naval Dockyards
Royal Armoury and the Royal Arsenal
The Royal Arsenal in Woolwich became a major military site from the late 17th century. It included:
- a gunpowder laboratory opened in 1695
- a brass gun foundry opened in 1716
- munitions factories and testing grounds
The site was officially renamed the Royal Arsenal by George III in 1805. It closed in 1967 following advances in ammunition technology.
Find out more about the Royal Artillery
Royal Military Academy
The Royal Military Academy was founded in 1741 at the Royal Arsenal and moved to Woolwich Common in 1806.
Cadets were trained in mathematics, fortifications, drawing, French, chemistry and dancing.
The academy merged with Sandhurst in 1945. Its Woolwich buildings were later used by the Royal Artillery before being redeveloped for housing in 2008.
Find out more about the Royal Military Academy
Royal Herbert Hospital
The Royal Herbert Hospital opened in the 1860s on the western slope of Shooters Hill. It was built to serve the Woolwich Garrison and improve care for soldiers, following a campaign by Florence Nightingale.