Like the other Laird-built 30-knotters, Griffon was propelled by two triple expansion steam engines, fed by four Normand boilers, rated at 6,300 ihp (4,700 kW), and was fitted with four funnels.

[7] She visited Greek waters in September 1902,[8] and Lieutenant Harry Charles John Roberts West was appointed in command when she was back at Malta in late October 1902.

[11] On 30 August 1912 the Admiralty directed all destroyers were to be grouped into classes designated by letters based on contract speed and appearance.

[19][20] Griffon remained attached to the Grand Fleet at Scapa Flow in February 1918,[21] but by March 1918 had transferred to the Irish Sea Flotilla.

[22] On 19 May 1918, she was one of several warships dispatched to investigate a sighting report of a periscope by an airship off the Lleyn Peninsula in North Wales.