The Royal Observatory
Book Tickets NowPostcode: SE10 8XJ
The home of time and space, visit the Royal Observatory Greenwich today to discover more about Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and the Prime Meridian of the World.
Visitor Information: The Royal Observatory
The Royal Observatory
DescriptionThere’s plenty to do at the Royal Observatory, including standing on the Prime Meridian Line and witnessing one of the world’s earliest public time systems, the red Greenwich time ball, drop. You can even check your watch against the Shepherd’s Gate Clock (the clock right at the heart of Britain’s time system).
Now that time is covered, what about space? Watch a stunning Planetarium show and learn all about our incredible universe. In the brilliant Planetarium, which screens a variety of shows, you can pick a topic that most interests you!
You can also have a wander through the Altazimuth Pavilion, a lovely building that dates back to 1899 and holds the Annie Maunder Astrographic Telescope.
With plenty to see and do, a trip to the the Royal Observatory is a fascinating day out.
If you are visiting via train the nearest stations are Greenwich, Greenwich DLR and Maze Hill..
You can also get a boat to the Royal Observatory, Greenwich with various services and water taxis which stop at the Greenwich Pier.
Highlights
Not to be missed when visitingThe Prime Meridian Line: Stand on the historic Prime Meridian of the World at longitude 0°, where east meets west. You can literally be in the western and eastern hemispheres at the same time.
The Time Galleries: Explore the journey of scientific discovery at the Time Galleries. From John Harrison’s groundbreaking timekeepers to the story of the atomic clock, the galleries provide a fascinating insight into the quest for finding longitude at sea.
Peter Harrison Planetarium: The planetarium is an incredible resource for understanding our universe. Various shows run throughout the day and cover topics from our night sky to the limits of our cosmos.
Great Equatorial Telescope: This is one of the largest refracting telescopes in the UK. Once used for important astronomical research, it’s now open to the public for observation sessions.
Flamsteed House: Visit the apartments of the first Astronomer Royal, John Flamsteed, and the Octagon Room—this historic room was used for observing celestial events such as eclipses, comets and planetary movements.
Camera Obscura: This fascinating piece of optical equipment gives a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding area.
Greenwich Park: The Observatory is located within the beautiful surroundings of Greenwich Park, which offers stunning views over the River Thames, Isle of Dogs and the City of London.
Astronomy Photographer of the Year Exhibition: Each year, the observatory hosts a collection of stunning images from the Astronomy Photographer of the Year competition, which showcases the best in astrophotography from around the world.
FAQs
Where is the Royal Observatory located?
The Royal Observatory is located in Greenwich, London.
Is there an entrance fee to the Royal Observatory?
Yes, there is an admission fee for the Royal Observatory. Current prices are below.
- Adults – £18
- Child – £9
Check availability and book tickets for the Royal Observatory.
Can I stand on the Prime Meridian Line?
Yes, visitors can stand on the Prime Meridian Line, the longitudinal line that divides the eastern and western hemispheres of the Earth.
What shows are available at the Peter Harrison Planetarium?
The Peter Harrison Planetarium runs a variety of shows on different aspects of astronomy and space exploration. The schedule can change, so it’s recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Is the Royal Observatory accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, the Royal Observatory is wheelchair accessible and also provides facilities for visitors with other disabilities.
What other attractions are nearby?
The Royal Observatory is located in Greenwich, London, a borough full of historical sites, museums, markets, and beautiful green spaces. Here are some nearby attractions you might be interested in:
Greenwich Park: This is one of London’s Royal Parks and is located immediately adjacent to the Royal Observatory. It offers beautiful views over the city.
The National Maritime Museum: This is the world’s largest maritime museum filled with inspirational stories of exploration and endeavor at sea.
Cutty Sark: This famous British clipper ship, one of the last tea clippers to be built and one of the fastest, is located a short walk away from the Royal Observatory. It’s now a museum ship where you can learn about the history of trade and navigation.
The Queen’s House: This former royal residence built between 1616-1635 is now a museum that houses an internationally renowned art collection.
Greenwich Market: This bustling market offers a wide range of goods, including antiques, arts and crafts, and delicious food from around the world.
The O2 Arena: A bit further afield, the O2 Arena is a state-of-the-art concert venue that also includes a cinema, bowling alley, and several restaurants.
Emirates Air Line Cable Car: This cable car provides a unique view over London, taking passengers across the River Thames between the Greenwich Peninsula and the Royal Docks.