Since Caspian started preschool I’ve been looking for fun activities we can also enjoy on weekends and during half-term. I used to travel to Greenwich a lot for work yet never had a chance to board The Cutty Sark. The impressive tea clipper dating back to 1869 is the world’s only remaining ship of its kind. It is magnificent in its own right yet The Royal Museums of Greenwich have ensured that there are now many entertaining and educational activities onboard as well. Ready for little and big explorers alike.
From the upper deck you have impressive views of London as well as Greenwich. Especially looking to the modern skyline from the bow of the skip puts the passing of time in perspective. Although for its time The Cutty Sark certainly had a lot of modern design features and was one of the most impressive and fastest vessels built for the long journeys to China. It went on seven worldwide journeys and there are a lot of stories to be told from its days on the open sea.
EXPERIENCING LIFE ONBOARD THE CUTTY SARK
As you enter the ship you have the option of exploring each deck. Full of historical information and facts about life onboard The Cutty Sark and it’s long journeys to China and back. Transporting more than 30 tons of tea. There are knowledgeable and helpful guides on each level. Make your way to the top and breathe in the sea air as you keep an eye out for pirates. We were very lucky with the weather but even on a rainy day the ship has a lot to offer.
From interactive games that allow your kids to sail The Cutty Sark and see if they can beat the journey time. Caspian at 3.5 years-old was very fascinated by this but had to leave it to the older children to complete. Instead, he amused himself with the big wooden replica of The Cutty Sark and tested his sea legs on the moving box.
After a devastating fire in 2007, the fascinating ship underwent a £50 million restoration funded by Heritage Lottery. When it reopened in 2012 it was out of the water and encased in glass allowing visitors to walk underneath the huge hull. The construction is not only fascinating it also houses a beautiful space and the cafe.
Enjoy Afternoon Tea, a delicious lunch where you can choose from sandwiches, salads or just a cup of coffee. Their mochas are divine and just the boost this mama needed after having kept her sailor in check all afternoon.
TICKETS AND EVENTS ONBOARD THE CUTTY SARK
On the first Saturday of the month, there are creative activities set up for kids. If you live close by you can join in with toddler time every Wednesday from 10:00-11:30 am or 1:20-2:50 pm including songs and playtime for little sailors. It’s £5 per adult but if you sign up for an annual membership at £44 you can go for free. Not to mention all the other benefits you gain. Find all the details using the link at the end of the post.
This October half-term The Cutty Sark offers lots of activities. Your family can take part in the storytelling festival She Tells Sea Tales – Adventure is Out There. Or create your own animated stories with Chocolate Films. Something for everyone to enjoy!
We loved our day on The Cutty Sark. So much to explore for the whole family. Easy to get to via Tube, DLR, mainline trains to Greenwich or even the Thames Clipper. Tickets are £12.50 for adults and £6.30 for children. Although make sure you check out all the ticket options as some will also give you access to the other Royal Museums of Greenwich. Visit The Cutty Sark website for all the information.
Have you’ve been to The Cutty Sark? What did your family think of it?
This is an advertorial post and we were invited to visit The Cutty Sark. All words, opinions and images are my own.
I love the Curry Sark and I haven’t been in years! I must revisit it. Fabulous photos
We visited here last year and the kids loved roaming the decks. Love how they have built the museum around it
I love your photos, what a great place to visit!
Wow! The ship looks lovely. I can imagine the fun.
This looks like an amazing day out, my boys would love it! Your photos are fantastic too!
This looks amazing and as always your photos are stunning!
Loving all your photos by the way! This looks like a great experience and a fab day out for the family xx
Not been to The Cutty Sark nor did I even know it existed, definitely something I would love to do with either alone or with my nephew.
This sounds like a brilliant day out!! I love that there seems to be so much exploring for little ones to do. We took our girls on a ferry boat for the first time this summer and both absolutely loved it. The Cutty Sark sounds like a perfect activity for them.
Wow! Looks like they had a fantastic time on that boat! I used to really be into days like this when I was a kid!
The Cutty Sark is a beautiful looking ship and your pictures are gorgeous, you’ve caught it just perfectly. Caspian certainly looks like he had alot of fun too!