Greenwich

Greenwich built its reputation on the sea: the Old Royal Naval College's baroque courtyards, the preserved tea clipper Cutty Sark, and the National Maritime Museum all trace Britain's naval and trading past. Climb through Greenwich Park to the Royal Observatory and you can straddle the Prime Meridian line itself, with one of London's best skyline views over Canary Wharf spread out below. The weekend market around Greenwich Church Street adds crafts and street food to the mix of Georgian streets and university buildings. It's easily reached by boat down the Thames, which is arguably the best way to arrive.