Things To Do
in Eltham
Eltham is a leafy suburb in the southeast corner of London, within the borough of Greenwich. It blends history and family-friendly green spaces, crowned by the grand Eltham Palace and its gardens. The town center along Eltham High Street offers independent cafes, pubs, and small shops, while parks and woodlands provide easy outdoor escapes.
It’s well-connected to central London by rail and bus, making day trips practical and enjoyable.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the stunning Eltham Palace, a blend of medieval and Art Deco architecture. Take a guided tour to learn about its fascinating history and the lives of the Courtauld family who once resided there. Stroll through the beautiful gardens, enjoying the serene landscape and the sound of chirping birds.
After exploring the palace, head to the nearby Eltham High Street for lunch at one of the charming local cafes. Spend your afternoon visiting the Eltham railway station, a historic site known for its impressive architecture. Wrap up your afternoon with a leisurely walk through the local shops, discovering unique crafts and souvenirs.
As evening descends, enjoy dinner at a local pub, where you can savor traditional British dishes. After your meal, take a short walk in the nearby Eltham Park, where the soft glow of the setting sun enhances the tranquil atmosphere. Conclude your day with a visit to a cozy coffee shop for a warm drink and some delightful pastries.
Set off early to explore the historic Royal Greenwich, just a short train ride away from Eltham. Visit the Royal Observatory, where you can stand on the Prime Meridian line and learn about the history of astronomy. Spend some time admiring the views from the hill, overlooking the stunning Greenwich Park.
Enjoy lunch at one of the many eateries in Greenwich, perhaps sampling some fresh seafood or traditional English fare. Afterward, visit the National Maritime Museum to delve into Britain's rich naval history. Don't miss the chance to wander through the picturesque Greenwich Market, filled with unique crafts and local produce.
As the sun sets, embark on a river cruise along the Thames, enjoying the illuminated skyline of London. Once back on land, have dinner at a riverside restaurant with views of the water. Finish your evening with a stroll along the riverbank, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and the sound of the waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🚆One-way public transport fare | $3-6 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city suburb) | $1,200-1,800/mo |
| 🧺Groceries for one month | $200-350 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historic sites like Eltham Palace
- Green spaces and parks
- Good rail links to central London
- Quiet, family-friendly atmosphere
- Supportive local community
- Limited nightlife compared to central London
- Some areas can feel residential and quiet
- Public transport can be slower on weekends
- Pockets of outdated signage or maintenance in places
Places to Visit in Eltham
Visit one of these nice places.
A striking blend of Tudor and Art Deco architecture set in manicured gardens.
Historic park with ponds, islands and a chance to capture reflections and birds.
Period shopfronts and street scenes that showcase local life.
Forest trails with elevated viewpoints offering cityscape shots at dusk.
Food in Eltham
Eltham Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fried mashed potato and cabbage cake often served with eggs or bacon—classic British pub/market staple.
Must-Try!
Sausages baked in Yorkshire pudding batter, typically served with onion gravy and vegetables.
Crispy battered fish with thick-cut chips, a seaside staple available in many local pubs and pubs-with-chip-shops.
Dense cake drenched in rich toffee sauce, a comforting dessert option in many eateries.
Roast meat with potatoes, vegetables and gravy—seasonal and widely available in pubs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Occasional market stalls along Eltham High Street offering fresh produce, baked goods and street snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
People queue patiently; standing to the right on escalators and letting others pass is common courtesy.
People tend to speak politely and avoid loud conversations in public transit.
Be mindful in churches and historic sites; dress modestly when visiting religious spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Eltham
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is discretionary; 10-15% in sit-down restaurants if service is not included. Rounding up taxis is common.
Card and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is still fine in markets and small shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Longer days with comfortable temperatures; outdoor activities and markets more frequent; check for occasional heat and rain.
Mild days with colorful foliage; perfect for woodland walks and photography; showers possible.
Cool and wetter conditions; daylight hours shorter; great for cozy pubs and indoor galleries.
Blossoms and fresh greenery; wildlife activity resumes; often milder and drier days.
Eltham at Night
Hiking in Eltham
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive woodlands with well-marked trails and skyline views of London.
Parkland trails that connect to longer green routes in the borough.
Airports
How to reach Eltham by plane.
Closest major airport with quick rail connections to Canary Wharf and central London.
Major international hub; accessible by rail and road, about an hour from Eltham by public transport.
Second major international hub; longer rail journey from Eltham but feasible for long-haul travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding family neighborhoods with schools and parks.
Commuters who work in central London and surrounding boroughs.
Students in nearby colleges and training programs.
Established communities with a sense of local history.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and school teams play weekly; public parks host weekend games.
Cricket in local parks during summer; community matches and junior programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Eltham.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in Eltham’s pubs and cafes; ask for veggie plates or adapt meals; many places label dishes clearly.