The Royal Observatory, Greenwich, is a historic site in London, England, located in Greenwich Park. It is best known as the home of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and the Prime Meridian of the world, Longitude 0°. It is one of the most important historic sites in the world and a popular tourist attraction in London.
History
The Royal Observatory, Greenwich was founded in 1675 by King Charles II. It was built as an observatory for studying the stars and planets and for keeping time. It is considered to be the birthplace of modern astronomy and navigation. The observatory was used to measure the time of day and to calculate longitude and latitude for ships at sea.
Attractions
The Royal Observatory, Greenwich is a must-see attraction for tourists visiting London. It is home to a number of historic buildings, including the Meridian Building, the Astronomer Royal’s House, and the Octagon Room. The observatory is also home to the Prime Meridian of the world, the line of longitude that divides the eastern and western hemispheres of the world.
The observatory also features a number of interactive exhibits, including the Astronomy Centre, the Time Galleries, and the Planetarium. The Astronomy Centre offers visitors the chance to learn about the stars and planets, while the Time Galleries explore the history of timekeeping and the development of Greenwich Mean Time. The Planetarium offers visitors a chance to explore the night sky and learn about the constellations.
Tours
The Royal Observatory, Greenwich offers a range of guided tours, including the Meridian Line Tour, the Timekeepers Tour, and the Astronomy Tour. The Meridian Line Tour takes visitors on a journey through the history of timekeeping and the Prime Meridian, while the Timekeepers Tour explores the history of the observatory and the development of Greenwich Mean Time. The Astronomy Tour offers a chance to explore the night sky and learn about the stars and planets.
Admission
Admission to the Royal Observatory, Greenwich is free, however, there is a charge for the guided tours. Tickets for the tours can be purchased online or at the observatory.
Tips for Tourists
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of London from the observatory.
- Book tickets for the guided tours in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen as the observatory is exposed to the elements.
Practical Information
The Royal Observatory, Greenwich is open daily from 10am to 5pm. The observatory is located in Greenwich Park, near the River Thames. The nearest tube station is Cutty Sark DLR station. The closest rail station is Greenwich, which is a ten-minute walk from the observatory.
Conclusion
The Royal Observatory, Greenwich is a must-see attraction for tourists visiting London. It is home to a number of historic buildings and interactive exhibits, and offers a range of guided tours. Admission to the observatory is free, however, there is a charge for the guided tours. With its rich history and stunning views of London, the Royal Observatory, Greenwich is one of the most popular London landmarks and Greenwich attractions.
