Royal Arsenal

Map of the Royal Arsenal and Woolwich

The Royal Arsenal where they made bombs for Britain was once a secret and forbidden place. Now, that has all changed with open access for the public, both the new Heritage Centre and the exciting Firepower!, the Royal Artillery Museum certainly deserve a visit.

The Greenwich Heritage Centre’s free exhibition Inside the Arsenal tells the amazing story of the Royal Arsenal and the surrounding area through the lives of the people who lived and worked there.

Greenwich Heritage Centre, Artillery Square, Royal Arsenal,
Woolwich SE18 4DX

Firepower! is just across the avenue and tells the story and evolution of artillery. Launch yourself into the ground-shaking field of fire, a unique display that immerses you in the midst of battle and explore the experiences and feelings of those involved.

Firepower! Artillery Square, Royal Arsenal, Woolwich SE18 6ST

To finish the day take a return trip on the Woolwich Free Ferry. This provides a good view of the town’s river frontage and the once busy tideway. A short distance away is North Woolwich Old Station Museum, Pier Road, North Woolwich
E16 2JJ - a family-friendly museum with lots of hands-on activities for youngsters. Admire carriages, locomotives, a 1920s ticket office and a wealth of other railway and local history related exhibits. Dudley the Diesel will enthral the younger visitors who can climb aboard and man the controls. There are also quizzes and special interactive displays.

Nearest station: Woolwich Arsenal BR

From Greenwich: Buses 180 or 177 from outside National Maritime Museum. Journey time approx. 20 minutes.

Useful Websites: www.greenwich.gov.uk/Greenwich/LeisureCulture
www.firepower.org.uk