Down along the Greenwich Riverfront

River walkers do not despair as another section of the Thames Path will be closed to the public in front of the historic Trinity Hospital while remedial repair takes place on the ancient river wall.

The diversion around the block reveals some fascinating properties to the observant walker along Eastney Street, Old Woolwich Road and Trenchard Street where a ‘hidden’ estate built in the arts and crafts style once housed Naval college staff. The meridian Primary School is a classic London School Board development – note its curious style and new playground once the Globe Rowing Boat House – which is now nearer the river in Eastney Street.

The newish Trinity Pensioners Home sited in their extensive garden is overlooked by the monstrous concrete coal store and the twin generating halls owned by London Transport which is a back up system with jet engines supplying almost instant power. Originally a smaller coal powered unit supplied power for the tram and trolley busses. The massive pier once had a pair of cranes to off load coals from Newcastle – and still remains as a reminder of the past. The path returns along the side of the lofty brick wall to the river front leading onto the historic Ballast Quay.

A new attraction is a splendid Turkish Café / Restaurant sited on the terraced forecourt – making an excellent comfort stop for one and all – their coffee is delicious as is their Turkish fare. Let’s hope the footfall is not damaged by these essential works – well worth investigating !!