'Cutty Sark' Entreeticket

The clipper ship Cutty Sark is definitely one of the best sites to visit in Greenwich. Built in the 1860s, it was one of the last tea clippers to be constructed and it functioned as such only a few years until it began to be used to transport wool for Australia. Continuing improvements in steamboat technology meant that it could no longer compete with steam ships, so at the end of the 19th century, it was sold and subsequently used as a cargo ship for around 20 years. In the early 1920s, it was bought by a retired captain and returned to Britain as a training ship and eventually it was put on public display in the 1950s. One of the most exciting things you can do on the Cutty Sark is to join one of the free tours. We were lucky enough to join a tour by a teamster who told us about his experience of working on the docks in the late 1800s and thus brought the ship and the period back to life. You can also take the helm, marvel at the underside of the ship, explore the cargo hold, visit the cabins, and even enjoy an afternoon tea under the hull. There's also a free to download audio guide, which gives you a lot more info about the history of the ship and the experiences of the crew. All in all, Cutty Sark is an exciting attraction that is not to be missed. You can easily combine a visit to this ship with a trip to the Royal Observatory, the National Maritime Museum, the Painted Hall or one of the other great sites in the Maritime Greenwich UNESCO World Heritage site. If you're planning on visiting more than one attraction though, it's probably a good idea to consider getting a Royal Museums Greenwich Day Pass as that could save you a few pounds. It's also worth noting that a single adult ticket for the Cutty Sark costs £22, so if you're short of money, you could alternatively visit some of the free attractions nearby such as Greenwich Park, the Maritime Museum or the Queen's House.

We took my grandson who is seven and very keen on boats so he loved it. We explored the ship and looked at all the rigging but the think he liked most was the rope making demonstration. It was very quiet so he had the undivided attention of Ilinca, who allowed him to make two pieces - the second for his young sister. Good cafe as well!

Pretty underwhelming and disappointing experience. There is very little to see in the ship itself, and frankly the story of this merchant vessel is not that interesting either.