Royal Observatory Greenwich
Blackheath Avenue, London, England, SE10 8XJ
Billed as the home of Greenwich Mean Time and the Prime Meridian, the Royal Observatory Greenwich is one of London’s major historical landmarks. Part of the Maritime Greenwich UNESCO World Heritage Site, the observatory was built by celebrated architect Christopher Wren in the 17th century. Today, it houses a planetarium, historical navigational tools, and one of the UK’s largest telescopes.
The basics
Ideal for families, history buffs, and architecture lovers, the Royal Observatory Greenwich is a multifaceted sight. Visitors can admire the oldest parts of the observatory when they tour Flamsteed House and the Octagon Room; learn about 17th-century British history in the interactive exhibitions; and admire the cosmos by booking tickets to a planetarium show. And no visit is complete without straddling the Meridian Line to stand in both Western and Eastern Hemispheres simultaneously.
The Royal Observatory Greenwich also features on a number of London tours and sightseeing itineraries. You can purchase admission (or a Royal Museums Greenwich day pass) online in advance to make exploring simple, see it as part of a Greenwich walking tour, or even glimpse it from the Thames on a river tour.
Things to know before you go
- It’s recommended to book tickets online to guarantee admission; planetarium shows are ticketed separately.
- For lunch or a snack, head to the on-site Astronomy Café and Terrace.
- Owing to its historic architecture, only sections of the Royal Observatory Greenwich are accessible to wheelchair users.
- At the museum’s gift shop, you’ll find books, games, and other souvenirs.
How to get there
The Royal Observatory Greenwich is located in Greenwich Park at Blackheath Avenue. You can take a mainline train to the Maze Hill or Greenwich station, or the Docklands Light Railway to Greenwich station; it’s about a 15-minutes walk from either. Various sightseeing boats and water taxis also stop at the nearby Greenwich Pier, and buses frequent the area.
When to get there
The Royal Observatory Greenwich is open daily, from morning to early evening, with extended hours in the summer; last entry is 45 minutes before closing time. Note that it’s likely to be especially crowded on the weekends and during school holidays.
The Royal Museums Greenwich
The Royal Observatory Greenwich is one of several Greenwich museums and historical landmarks. Other must-sees among the Royal Museums Greenwich include the Cutty Sark (a historic sailing ship that's now open to visitors), the National Maritime Museum (which tells the story of Britain's naval history), and the Queen's House (an architectural masterpiece and former royal residence).
Ways to explore
Set aside plenty of time to visit the observatory. Wander its oldest sections (Flamsteed House and the Octagon Room), explore interactive exhibits, and marvel at a planetarium show. No visit is complete without straddling the Meridian Line to stand in both hemispheres simultaneously.
Book tickets online ahead of your visit. You can buy a Royal Museums Greenwich day pass for access to the observatory, plus the historic Cutty Sark sailing ship and the National Maritime Museum. There’s also an option to see the observatory as part of a London tour, such as a Greenwich walking tour and Thames river cruise.
Accessibility
Due to its historical nature, only parts of the Royal Observatory Greenwich have step-free access; the Camera Obscura, Great Equatorial Telescope, and Octagon Room have steps. There are wheelchair-accessible restrooms.
Age limits
None
What to pack
An umbrella (London is subject to frequent showers) and a bottle of water
What to wear
A lot of walking is involved at this sprawling attraction, so comfortable shoes are a must, as are cozy layers.
Not allowed
Selfie sticks, drones, smoking, outside food and drink
Amenities
Accessible restrooms, café, gift shop, audio guides
Address
The Royal Observatory Greenwich is located in Greenwich Park at Blackheath Avenue, which is accessible by car or train. Various sightseeing boats and water taxis also stop at the nearby Greenwich Pier, including the Uber Boat by Thames Clipper.
Driving
From Trafalgar Square, take the A201 (Victoria Embankment) east towards the A3. Continue on the A3, passing through Elephant and Castle. Merge onto the A2 towards Greenwich then take the exit for Charlton Way/B210. Follow Charlton Way, which becomes Blackheath Avenue, leading directly to the Royal Observatory.
Public transportation
You can take a mainline train to the Maze Hill or Greenwich station, or the Docklands Light Railway to Greenwich station; it’s about a 15-minute walk from either.
Best times to visit
Plan your visit to include a show at the Peter Harrison Planetarium, which typically take place hourly from lunchtime until late afternoon.
Best days to visit
Visit on a weekday for a quieter experience, though be aware that the Planetarium doesn’t run shows on Thursdays.
Best months to visit
Many of Maritime Greenwich’s attractions are outdoors, so visit from spring through early fall (May-September) for the most pleasant weather.
Special events
The annual Astronomy Photographer of the Year exhibition typically takes place from September through August.
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