National Maritime Museum

The National Maritime Museum, set up by King George VI, tells the story of Britain's navy and the global history of trade and exploration on the oceans waves. The historic buildings are also home to the Royal Observatory, Greenwich and the 17th-century Queens House.

The museum houses over a staggering 2 million objects, varying in range from ornate antiques to astounding recreations, making it one of the most impressive collections in the country. The museum holds models, displays, paintings and trophies from every continent of the world, allowing you to be transported back to the time of the romantic ocean liners and the traditions of London maritime.

The museum is arranged in a series of themed exhibitions and the main themes are as follows: Maritime London, Explorers, Rank and Style and Art and the Sea. The most recent gallery, Nelson gallery, opened to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar, includes JMW Turner's painting of the battle, and the uniform Nelson was wearing on that fateful day in October 1805. There is a wonderful hands on experience for kids (and adults alike) in both the 'All Hands' and 'Bridge' galleries where visitors can try their sea faring hands at rowing, steering equipment and many other interactive activities.

Along with the many galleries of artifacts the museum also has a full programme of free family events, serious lectures, an important reference library of books and manuscripts and an e-library for personal research.

The museum is open daily from 10am - 5pm and has no admission charge. Why not make this a day out for the whole family and visit a few of the other magnificent London attractions in the area. There is definitely something to tantalize everyone's tastes!