Huge telescopes and stunning views at the home of Greenwich Mean Time

It's about time you discovered the Royal Observatory!

Last night marked the vernal equinox — typically seen as the start of spring here in the UK. With the days lengthening, now's the perfect time to visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, where you can learn all about how we measure the seasons, discover astonishing astronomical instruments, and hear how scientists first mapped the stars and the seas.

The Royal Observatory is one of the most important historic scientific sites in the world. First founded in 1675, it played a huge role in improving navigation and preventing shipwrecks. In the 19th century, it became the home of Greenwich Mean Time and the Prime Meridian Line. Today, it's a fascinating museum where you can unlock the secrets of time and space.

Read on to discover just a few of the out-of-this-world experiences waiting for you and the whole family right now at this fascinating London landmark.

Plan Your Visit

Walk The Line

Stand with one foot in the Western Hemisphere and the other in the Eastern as you straddle the Prime Meridian Line. Defined by the Transit Circle telescope at the Royal Observatory in 1884, the Prime Meridian is the reference line for Greenwich Mean Time, which you can learn all about at the museum.

Marvel At A Massive Telescope

The distinctive "onion dome" roof (pictured right) houses the largest telescope of its kind in the UK. Installed in 1893, this is The Great Equatorial Telescope: a beast of a refractor with a lens measuring 28 inches in width. Step inside to discover the might of this historic instrument for yourself.

Clock These Timekeepers

The Royal Observatory is also home to the world-famous Harrison Clocks. These 18th century timekeepers were created by self-taught carpenter and clockmaker John Harrison as part of an epic race to solve the problem of measuring longitude at sea. His models H1, H2, H3, and H4 are all on display.

Enjoy Stunning Views

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the skyscrapers of Canary Wharf, and the glittering River Thames — just some of the spectacular sights you can spy from the Royal Observatory's hilltop vantage point. On clear days, you can even spy the likes of St Paul's Cathedral and the London Eye. Ideal if you fancy flexing your photography skills!

Find Even More Things To Do

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