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Greenwich isn’t just about the Cutty Sark and historic buildings – the O2 at Greenwich Peninsula in North Greenwich is now one of the most popular attractions to visit in London. It isn’t just about music venues – there are lots of things to do at the O2.
From luxury shopping to an aerial adventure on the roof – plus there are a whole host of outdoor activities along the Thames path including incredible sculptures by Damien Hirst.
Better yet, it is free to visit the O2 to enjoy shopping, restaurants, bars and more.
From London’s only cable car to the Design District canteen and the biggest cinema in London, here are the best things to do at the O2 in Greenwich Peninsula, North Greenwich:
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Table of Contents
Arriving at the O2, North Greenwich
Formerly the Millennium Dome and now home to the O2 entertainment complex, Greenwich Peninsula has recently reinvented itself as an upcoming destination that promises big things in the future.
The best way to arrive at the O2 Greenwich if you aren’t driving is to get the Jubilee London Underground line to North Greenwich station from Central London (20 minutes) or from Stratford in east London (10 minutes). The O2 is approximately a 2 minute walk from the station exit.
Alternatively, you can arrive from the Royals Docks area via the IFS Cloud Cable Car across the River Thames – more on this unique mode of transport later.
You can also arrive at the Greenwich Peninsula from central London or from Greenwich central via an Uber Boat by Thames Clipper.
Where to stay in North Greenwich
Mid range
Holiday Inn Express London Greenwich
Modern and comfortable accommodation located a 15 minute walk away from the O2 Arena, the cable cars and North Greenwich London Underground station.
Luxury
Intercontinental London
Stylish accommodation with views of the River and The O2 arena. Facilities include a spa, plus five restaurants and bars.
Check out these hotels in Greenwich >
Things to do near North Greenwich station/ Greenwich Peninsula
1. Icon Outlet at The O2
A designer outlet mall in the heart of the 02 in Greenwich Peninsula, this is one of the best discount retail shopping centres in London.
With over 60 shops under one roof most of which have huge discounts (up to 70% off), this is one way to save a lot of cash when shopping in London.
The Icon Outlet has a really good roster of brands, high street stores and big name luxury retailers.
Some of the flagship stores at the Icon Outlet at the O2 include an Adidas outlet (cheap sneakers and trainers galore), The Body Shop, Calvin Klein, Gant, Guess, Hobbs, Kurt Geiger, Nike Factory Shop and a Next Outlet.
Opened in 2018, Icon Outlet was in the news a couple of years ago when part of the roof blew off during Storm Eunace – so it wasn’t just the prices that were coming down.
Thankfully all has been patched up since and the Icon Outlet is genuinely one of the best London shopping spots under one roof. The bargains at Icon Outlet at O2 continue with free parking available.
And even if you aren’t a fan of shopping but your partner or friend is, there are so many things to do at the O2 that you go your separate ways for a while. That said, there is even a cocktail and craft beer bar to sit and sip at if you tire of shopping or need a mid retail respite.
The Icon Outlet at the 02 is open daily from 10am (11am on Sundays) as of July 2023.
Address: Icon Outlet at The O2, Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX
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2. Cineworld Cinema at The O2, Greenwich
Film fans rejoice. The O2 in Greenwich is home to London’s biggest cinema, Cineworld Cinema at The O2, with 19 screens (both 2D and 3D screens).
Given its status as London’s biggest cinema, the Cineworld often has movie premieres and high profile events.
Recently, 4DX was introduced at Cineworld O2 which has moving cinema seats and atmospheric conditions like fog, scent and water (sounds like an aromatherapy studio!) plus Screen X (complete with 270 degree views).
As well as VIP seats with reclining chairs, the Cineworld at O2 has the superscreen, the largest O2 cinema auditorium in the UK. So go and watch a movie in North Greenwich!
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3. Up at the O2
Fancy an aerial view of the O2 canopy, Greenwich, the River Thames, Trinity Buoy Wharf and London’s financial centre, Canary Wharf? If the IFC cloud cable car isn’t tall enough height for you, then perhaps it is time to scale the sides of the O2.
Get the best panoramic views at this Climb up on the O2 attraction that has real ‘altitude’ – definitely one of most fun (or petrifying depending on your outlook) things to do at the O2!
Aimed at ages and abilities, Up at the 02 reaches a height of over 50 metres. Generally open from 10am to 6pm, there is a choice of day time, sunset and twilight climbs.
The O2 climb is split into 6 sections, 3 on the way up. and 3 on the way down. No previous climbing experience is necessary and all climbing equipment and harnesses are provided as part of the activity price.
Address: The O2, Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX
Book Up at The O2 Climb in Greenwich London here:
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4. The O2 Music Venues / Comedy
Post Millenium Dome status and reinvention, in the early days, the rebranded O2 venue in North Greenwich was perhaps best known as live music and concert venue.
Over the years, huge headline acts have performed at the O2 and it was once named the world’s best music venue – high praise indeed. We were lucky enough to once see the late, great Prince perform at the O2.
Other famous bands to play at the O2 in North Greenwich include David Bowie, Bon Jovi, Elton John, The Rolling Stones and Pearl Jam. If you are visiting London any time soon, if it is definitely worth checking the event listings at the O2 Greenwich Pensinula here >
The London events scene is incredible. As well as live music, the O2 also hosts big comedy gigs.
We recently saw Alan Partridge’s live show here and in early 2023, the O2 hosted the UK leg of the Just for Laughs comedy festival which included acts like Ryan Reynolds and Graham Norton.
There are two main entertainment venues at the O2 – the huge 20,000 seater O2 Arena plus the more intimate Indigo at the O2 venue (just under 3,000 seats).
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5. Mamma Mia The Party, The 02
Gimme, gimme, gimme a ticket to see Mamma Mia the Party, a disco and dining experience at the O2 in North Greenwich.
Based on ABBA songs and the hit West End stage show, this immersive and live London stage experience is an ABBA-solute joy (sorry not sorry).
Located near to the Icon shopping outlet, enjoy a sumptuous four course meal (The Dinner Takes It All?!), classic ABBA hits and overall, have a Super (Trouper) time.
Take a chance on Mamma Mia The Party at the 02 Greenwich Wednesday to Friday (6.30pm – 10.30pm) and Saturday to Sunday (12pm – 4pm and 6.30pm – 10.30pm).
Advance booking is required for Mamma Mia The Party at the 02 – at least you won’t need to take money, money, money with you.
Address: Mamma Mia The Party, Nikos Taverna, The O2, Peninsula Square, London, SE10 0DX
See ABBA virtually perform a full concert at ABBA Voyage in Stratford – quite like nothing else we’ve ever done in London before. Read our Stratford guide here >
Get your tickets to ABBA Voyages with Klook or Viator, or your Mamma Mia Musical West End London tickets here >
6. O2 Food and Drink / The O2 Restaurants and Bars
If you arrive at the O2 hungry or thirsty, fear not – there are over 40 different restaurants, bars and cafes to choose from. This has to be North Greenwich’s biggest choice of food and drink!
Generally, we’ve found the bars and restaurants at the O2 don’t get that busy other than when a concert or huge gig is on.
Whilst you will generally find chain restaurants at the O2, there is a good spread of cuisines – mainstream munchies and food and drink include Five Guys, Gordon Ramsay Street Burger, Wasabi sushi, Busaba Thai food and Hollywood Bowl American Diner.
One of our favourite O2 offerings is Marugame Udon, famous for its tasty tempura and oodles of noodles. Marugame is a Japanese udon noodle chain that is rapidly expanding its presence in London with branches in Liverpool Street and Oxford Circus.
The reason for its popularity? Based on our own experiences, we think it is pretty cheap (usually around £3 to £7 for a bowl of udon noodles with various fillings), your food is ready in seconds plus you can help yourself to various sauces and toppings.
7. Wetherspoons the Star Gazer 02 Pub
The Stargazer is a new £3 million bar and pub complex in the heart of the O2, opening in early 2023 by the Wetherspoons pub group. If you aren’t from the UK, Wetherspoons are a big pub chain that usually have cheaper than average drinks plus inexpensive combo deals.
As well as a themed decor linked to Greenwich’s naval and astronomy history (look up at the stars in the ceiling and clocks in the carpet), there is huge beer garden at Wetherspoons Star Gazer 02 pub.
Pints of ale at the Wetherspoons 02 Greenwich pub start from as little as £3 so it is definitely the cheapest bar / pub in the 02.
Like all Wetherspoon pubs, it has long trading hours (open from 10am to late night) so this might also be a good opportunity to try a traditional England breakfast (fry-up) or other traditional English dishes.
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8. TOCA Social
London has never been short of immersive events and one of the newest openings at the O2 is TOCA Social, the world’s first interactive football and dining experience, pairing immersive gaming and a gamut of food and drink.
From children’s birthday parties to work drinks, TOCA Social is a ‘kicking’ football and sports bar with games likes Star Striker and Surviving the Apocalypse.
Score a trip to TOCA social – prices start from £25 per box as of August 2023.
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9. Virgin Media Gamepad at the O2
Located on the former site of Sky Studios O2 (now closed), Virgin Media Gamepad is a unique gaming experience and lounge that is free for all to play – with a lush lounge and Xbox consoles, this is one plush players place with panoramic views of the O2 interior.
Open to all gamers or just the console curious, The O2 Virgin Media Gamepad is new for 2023 and open from 12pm-8pm every Monday to Saturday, and every Sunday 11am-7pm.
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10. iFLY Indoor Skydiving
Indoor skydiving has flown into the Greenwich O2 – suitable for all ages, this indoor flying experience is led by an experienced instructor and lasts around 60 minutes; certainly the most unique way to blow the cobwebs out in London!
Even if this fine foray into indoor flying doesn’t sound like your idea of fun, there is a free to watch viewing platform in case you want to see it before making the decision.
iFLY Indoor Skydiving at the O2 is open from 10am to 6pm Monday to Thursday and 9am to 8pm Friday through Saturday . Times correct as of August 2023.
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Outdoor And Other Things To Do at the O2
There are several alfresco activities and arty things to do at the O2 in North Greenwich, some free like riverside walks and some paid for.
11. Greenwich Design District / Greenwich Design District Canteen
The newest addition to Greenwich Peninsula is The Design District, a colourful creative hub comprising sixteen 16 uniquely designed buildings (many with environmentally friendly and energy saving features) that are used work spaces and temporary pop-ups.
On our last visit to the O2 in Greenwich, we were delighted to discover the futuristic Design District Canteen, billed as a new global food hall for London.
The Greenwich Design District Canteen currently has 6 stalls and 1 bright and breezy bar.
Whilst it may not have the number of food stalls of say somewhere like Mercato Wood Wharf in Canary Wharf or Bang Bang Oriental Food Hall, the upstairs mezzanine area for eating housed in a huge clear bubble feels more like Eden Project than east London – aesthetically awesome we think!
The Greenwich Design District Canteen is one the tastiest things to do in Greenwich Peninsula and open daily from 8am to 11pm weekdays and from 8.30am at the weekends.
Address: Design District Canteen, Soames Walk, Greenwich Peninsula, London SE10 0AX
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12. IFS Cloud Cable Car Royal Docks (formerly Emirates Air Line)
Recently renamed as the IFS Cloud Royal Docks (catchy eh!), the former Emirates Air Line is London’s only cable car.
A bit of a transport oddity in London (thanks Boris), the IFS Cloud Cable Car Royal Docks opened in 2010, ready for the 2012 London Olympics to transport punters between the Greenwich Peninsula and Royal Docks over the River Thames.
The IFS Cloud Royal Docks is also the closest thing we have to a funicular or cable car in London.
Whilst it is fun, it is also not the cheapest mode of transport in London. A round trip journey on the IFS Cable Car / (former Emirates Air Line) costs £12 per person (or £6 one way).
You can now also purchase a London Cable Car Multi-journey ticket for the IFS Cloud Cable Car in Greenwich Peninsula.
A Multi-journey ticket is £17 and can only be bought from London Cable Car ticket offices at the Terminals – these allow 10 one-way journeys and are valid for 12 months from the date of purchase. Prices correct as of summer 2023.
Book your IFS Cable Car in advance >
Address: IFS Cloud Royal Docks, 27 Western Gateway, London E16 1FA
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13. Damien Hirst’s Outdoor Art and Sculptures at Greenwich Peninsula
North Greenwich and Greenwich Peninsula is blessed with some incredible (and valuable!) outdoor alfresco art and sculptures, most notably work by Damien Hirst.
Renowned artist Damien Hirst is a former North Greenwich resident so it is perhaps fitting that several of his most famous artworks are on display outdoors near to the 02 Greenwich and along the Greenwich Peninsula.
Artworks from Damien’s The Wreck of the Unbelievable series are dotted around Greenwich Peninsula – Hydra and Kali, The Divers and Mermaid.
New for 2023 in North Greenwich Damien’s Hirst’s newest installation was unveiled at Greenwich Peninsula, next to the IFS Cable Car.
Entitled ‘The Demon with Bowl’ this colossal 60 foot / 18 metre sculpture is one of the largest sculptures to ever be unveiled in London, having been created for a previous art biennale in Venice.
It is incredible to get up close to The Demon (and even more impressive to see it from inside the cable car).
The Damien Hirst artworks in Greenwich North along Greenwich Peninsula are all free to visit.
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14. Uber Boat by Thames Clippers
As the O2 and the Greenwich Peninsula are a little far out from the historic heart of London (the Square Mile) and central London, a nice way to arrive in style is by an Uber Boat by Thames Clipper along the river.
Plus an added bonus is that you get to see cool riverside attractions along the way like the South Bank, London Eye and numerous historic London pubs on the river.
The Uber Boats by Thames Clippers are a speedy and sleek way to get from central London to the O2 – start the party early with some drinks onboard the Uber Thames Clipper with their onboard coffee shop and bar.
If you are looking to do some of these things at the O2, we’d definitely recommend arriving by Uber boat on a sunny day.
The first Uber Boat by Thames Clipper leaves central London at 6am on weekdays (9.39am weekends) until 23.30 at night.
Beat the queues. Get your Uber Boat by Thames Clippers Hop-On Hop-Off Pass:
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15. Now Gallery
Located directly next door to the North Greenwich Tube station and very close to the O2, the Now Gallery is a free thing to do and public exhibition space in Greenwich Peninsula that hosts a wide range of ever changing exhibitions and art displays.
Open Tuesday to Sunday, their aim is to showcase creativity and provide an arts space that is accessible to all. Hosting up to five exhibitions every year, the window at Now Gallery is always a delight with a taster of what to expect from the current exhibition.
Address: The NOW Gallery, Soames Walk, Greenwich O2, London SE10 0SQ
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16. London Line Sculpture Trail
If you are after something a little different whilst at the O2, how about taking in some alfresco art? You can explore The Line Sculpture trail – London’s only outdoor exhibition space and sculpture trail along the river Thames from Greenwich Peninsula.
As you get the IFS Cloud Cable Car across from Royal Docks, you’ll see Antony Gormley’s 2000 piece of work Quantum Cloud, which is part of the London Line Sculpture trail.
The Line Sculpture trail was created in 2015 as an outdoor exhibition space to encourage Londoners and tourists to discover lesser well known parts of London and admire the interesting artwork in open spaces.
Its name stems from the fact that it roughly follows the Greenwich Meridian line from Greenwich all the way to Stratford, between the Greenwich Peninsula and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
17. Visit the Thames Barrier
Around a 30 minute walk or 10 minute cycle from the O2, the Thames Barrier is an iconic London landmark that opened in 1982 to protect London from flooding.
The barrier consists of several interlocking barriers that open and close depending on the water flow and tide of the river Thames.It has a free to visit viewing deck (and cafe) on the far side of the Thames (alas not so easy to visit by the Tube or public transport).
One of the best free things to do in North Greenwich, the free admission means there is no ‘barrier to entry when visiting Greenwich Peninsula (and it looks rather cool and sci-fi too!).
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Address: The Thames Barrier, Eastmoor Street, London SE7 8LX
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18. Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park
Open Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm, the Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park is a small natural area (four acres) of natural freshwater habitats that is home to a variety of wildlife and pondlife.
Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park is around a 15 minute walk via Olympic Way from North Greenwich station or a 10 minute walk from the IFS Cloud Cable Car.
The Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park comprises a couple of ponds surrounded by marshland and trees, with a wildflower meadow. Whilst not on the scale of say Walthamstow Wetlands, it is a nice free thing to do in North Greenwich, especially for children to learn about nature and conservation.
Address: Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park, John Harrison Way, Olympian Way, London SE10 0QZ
19. Eighteen Sky Bar
A chic cocktail with panoramic views of London Docklands and the North Greenwich and Peninsula area, Eighteen Sky Bar is located in the Intercontinental Hotel at the O2.
Funnily, as well as 360 degrees of east London, you can also watch the Up at the O2 climbers as you sip your sauv or chug your Cosmopolitan.
As well as a lush and opulent outdoor bar, the Eighteen Sky Bar in North Greenwich has an outdoor terrace. Dress smart casual and booking in advance is recommended – and yes, you guessed right, it is on the 18th floor of the InterContinental Hotel at the O2.
Address: Eighteen Sky Bar, the InterContinental Hotel at the O2, 18th Floor, 1 Waterview Drive, London SE10 0TW
20. Greenwich Peninsula Market
Another new thing to do in North Greenwich for 2023 is the Greenwich Peninsula Market, now open every weekend at Peninsula Square (a great addition to the London Saturday market and Sunday Market scene).
In the shadow of the Greenwich O2 boasting a fine array of handmade crafts, independent producers and artisan designs, Greenwich Peninsula Market also has the best of British ingredients and farmers market stalls include cured meats, fresh loaves of bread and cheeses galore.
Greenwich Peninsula Market is run by the Real Food Festival and is open every Saturday and Sunday at Greenwich Peninsula Square from 11am to 6pm; times correct as of August 2023.
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Other Things to do near North Greenwich Peninsula and the O2 Greenwich
Mudchute Park Farm, London
A day on the farm doesn’t necessarily need to take place outside of London – and Mudchute Farm is only a 15 minute drive from Greenwich Peninsula and North Greenwich
You can see farm animals and other livestock at Mudchute Farm on the appropriately named Isle of Dogs, based over 30 acres of parkland. This London animal farm is free to visit and there is also a cafe called Mudchute Kitchen where you can dine overlooking the stables and courtyard.
Set in a huge swathe of gloriously green parkland, it is hard to believe this animal farm is in the city of London, so close to the big skyscrapers of Canary Wharf.
Mudchute Park and Farm has over 100 animals and rare breeds, including pigs, sheep, donkeys, llamas and wildfowl such as chickens, turkeys and geese.
Mudchute Park and Farm is free to visit and open every day from 9am to 5pm (although the animals usually go inside from 3.30pm onwards).
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Docklands Go Karting
Located near the Thames Barrier and Greenwich Peninsula, Teamsport Go Karting in Docklands / East London is a 800 metre circuit with top speeds of over 40mph achievable.
Great for team builds and corporate events, this Docklands go kart track is open daily from 9am to 11pm. Prices at Teamsport Go Kart in East London / Docklands starts at £55.50pp for 2 x 15 minute group races.
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Things to do at the O2 further afield
There are many other smaller branches of the 02 Academy music venues across 14 cities. In total, there are 20 O2 Academy live music venues including in Birmingham, Newcastle upon Tyne and Liverpool.
In London, there are O2 Academies and live music venues in Shepherd’s Bush, Brixton, Islington and Kentish Town.
All host an incredible range of eclectic gigs with benefits such as free cloakroom facilities for O2 mobile phone members.
The O2 Opening Hours
The O2 London Greenwich Peninsula is open 10am to 11pm daily – times correct as at March 2023.
The O2 London Address
The O2 in Greenwich Peninsula address is The O2, Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX
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