George WilkinsonAfter taking in the impressive grounds of the University of Greenwich, it was time to hit the streets — because no campus experience is complete without exploring the city it calls home. In this leg of the Futures Start Tour, I take you beyond the lecture halls and into the heart of Greenwich, one of London’s most vibrant and culturally rich boroughs.
This city tour isn’t a curated travel guide — it’s a boots-on-the-ground experience for international students curious about what life here actually feels like. The sounds, the streets, the buzz — all captured as it happens. If you’re considering studying at the University of Greenwich, or just want a taste of what student life in this historic corner of London is like, this one’s for you.
City Energy in Every Corner
Starting right from the city centre, the buzz is unmistakable. Whether it’s the mid-day coffee rush, students pouring out of classes, or tourists snapping photos by iconic landmarks — Greenwich moves with a rhythm that’s impossible to ignore.
Right at the city’s core, you’ll find an incredible intersection where university life meets city life. Just behind me in the video stands the University of Greenwich, and in every direction are cafes, shops, and cultural hotspots like the National Maritime Museum, Queen’s House, and of course, the legendary Cutty Sark.
I made a quick stop at the National Maritime Museum, which is just a short walk from campus. It’s one of the largest maritime museums in the world and offers a fascinating dive into Britain’s naval history. From historic ship models to interactive exhibits, the museum is a must-visit — especially for international students who want to understand the deep ties between Greenwich and the sea. It’s educational, engaging, and totally free to enter.
Just a few steps from the Maritime Museum is the stunning Queen’s House, an architectural masterpiece and former royal residence. Built in the early 17th century, it’s now home to an incredible collection of art and history, offering a quiet but inspiring space to explore. Whether you’re into classical architecture, intrigued by royal heritage, or simply looking for a peaceful place to unwind, the Queen’s House adds a unique cultural layer to the Greenwich student experience.
Coffee, Parks, and the Prime Meridian
The tour takes you through a classic student routine — grabbing a coffee and heading into the green spaces that define the area. We make our way up to the Greenwich Observatory, located in the beautiful Greenwich Park, where history meets nature at the famous Prime Meridian Line.
It’s one of those places where you can take a breather, soak in the view of London’s skyline, and remind yourself why studying here is about so much more than books and lectures.
Life by the River Thames
No Greenwich tour is complete without strolling down to the River Thames. Whether you’re hopping on a boat cruise to the O2 Arena or just catching golden hour with friends, this stretch of the river is a chill-out spot every student should know.
From historical landmarks to modern hangout spots, Greenwich offers the perfect mix of study and lifestyle. It’s the kind of place where you don’t just attend university — you live it.
What’s Next on the Futures Start Tour?
The Greenwich city tour marks just the second stop in the Futures Start Tour — a project aimed at giving real insight into what it’s like to study, live, and thrive in UK cities as an international student. Next up? You’ll just have to wait and see — but trust me, it only gets better from here.
👉 Watch the full Greenwich City Tour on YouTube:
👉 Missed the University of Greenwich Campus Tour? Catch it here:
George Wilkinson
