Royal Observatory Greenwich
Last Updated on April 19, 2024 by Suzy McCullough
The Royal Observatory in Greenwich stands at the top of a steep hill with wonderful far-reaching views of London. At the Royal Observatory, you can stand on the Meridian line and have one foot in the east and the other foot in the west. There are not many places where you can stand in 2 hemispheres of the globe at once.
Things to do see at the Royal Observatory Greenwich
It’s worth picking up an audio guide to guide you around their exhibition rooms. This helps you discover why the Royal Observatory became the home of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and it is the official starting point for each day, year and millennium. It’s also the Prime Meridian of the world, which means it has a Longitude of 0 degrees.
You can also explore space with a Planetarium show at £10 extra for an adult and £5 for a child. Kids will love the child-friendly shows. It is the only planetarium in London. The films are projected in HD onto a large dome. There are a number of galleries and exhibitions about space in the building next to the Planetarium.
You also get to see the Great Equatorial Telescope which has been used by many famous astronomers. The attraction is more suited to older children especially those of reading age. They do have some interactive exhibits but they can be very popular with all visitors and hard to access. The exhibits are mostly themed on time and clocks.
Further Information
Is there food and drink available?
There is a cafe on-site selling a limited choice of hot and cold food and drinks.
What are the main things to do?
Stand in two hemispheres of the globe at once, exhibitions about time and space including interactive exhibits. Plus planetarium shows. There are toilets and a cafe.
What are the ticket prices?
An adult ticket is from £18.50, children are from £8. Other pricing options are available. It’s worth purchasing a combined ticket with the Cutty Sark.
Prices are subject to change and/or discounts online.
When are they open?
The Royal Observatory is open for most of the year. For up-to-date opening times and dates please visit their website.
Dog friendly?
Only assistance dogs are permitted.
Are they accessible?
