Navigating Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich : Answers to common questions
- Washrooms: Public washrooms are available in the Royal Observatory.
- Hours of Operation: The Royal Observatory is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM.
- Important Information: The Royal Observatory in Greenwich is known for its prime meridian and astronomy exhibits.
- Admission Fee: An admission fee is required to enter the Royal Observatory.
- How Long to Visit: A visit to the Royal Observatory typically lasts about 1 to 2 hours.
- Parking: Parking is available at the Royal Observatory and nearby public lots.
- Family Friendly: The Royal Observatory is family-friendly, with exhibits and activities for all ages.
- Photography: Photography is allowed, but no flash photography inside the Royal Observatory.
- WIFI: Free public WIFI is available in some areas of the Royal Observatory.
- Picnic Area: There are no designated picnic areas within the Royal Observatory grounds.
- Handicap Accessible: The Royal Observatory is accessible for visitors with disabilities.
- Pets: Pets are not allowed inside the Royal Observatory.
- Guided Tours: Guided tours of the Royal Observatory are available and highly informative.
- Restaurant or Cafe: The Royal Observatory has a cafe offering light meals and beverages.
- Gift Shop: The gift shop at the Royal Observatory offers astronomy-related souvenirs and books.
Please note all times and prices subject to change. Please check the offical website for details.
Embarking on a journey to the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, London, is akin to taking a magnificent dive into the very heart of time and space. Established in 1675 by King Charles II and designed by the acclaimed Sir Christopher Wren, this historic observatory is not only a monumental site but also the birthplace of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), making it a pivotal landmark in the chronicles of navigation and astronomy. As a travel writer deeply engrossed in the wonders our world has to offer, I find the observatory's blend of scientific heritage and architectural marvel to be a unique exploration experience that stands out amidst the hustle and bustle of London.
Upon arrival, visitors are greeted with the striking sight of Flamsteed House, named after the first Astronomer Royal, John Flamsteed. Here, the quest into the annals of time begins. Inside Flamsteed House, one can marvel at the Time and Longitude Gallery, which superbly narrates the tale of humanity's quest to understand and measure time and space. The age-old challenge of determining longitude at sea, which once seemed an insurmountable puzzle, is delicately unfolded through historic artifacts and interactive displays, offering insights into the innovations that shaped our understanding of the world.
Nestled atop a hill within Greenwich Park, the Royal Observatory offers breathtaking panoramic views of London, with the River Thames meandering below. This picturesque scene is perfectly framed by the Prime Meridian line, a globally recognized longitudinal reference that divides the eastern and western hemispheres. Standing on this line, one can quite literally have one foot in the western hemisphere and the other in the east - a surreal and must-have photo opportunity for the enthusiastic traveler.
Yet, the Observatory's allure does not end with its terrestrial significance. The Peter Harrison Planetarium, a beacon of modern astronomical education located within the Observatory's grounds, offers visitors a chance to embark on cosmic voyages. Through cutting-edge technology and engrossing visual displays, the planetarium provides a gateway to the universe, inviting all to delve into the mysteries of celestial bodies, distant galaxies, and the overarching cosmos. It's a reminder of the human spirit's unyielding curiosity, always reaching out to the unknown.
The Royal Observatory in Greenwich offers a holistic journey through the realms of time, space, and history. Its blend of scientific intrigue and scenic beauty makes it an essential visit for those who are keen to experience London's rich historical tapestry alongside the marvels of the universe. Far beyond a mere tourist attraction, it's a place where one can literally and metaphorically stand at the crossroads of human knowledge and perspective, looking back at our collective past while gazing forward into the infinite possibilities of the future.
Did You Know These Facts About Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich ?
Today, the observatory is part of the National Maritime Museum and features exhibits on timekeeping, astronomy, and navigation.
The observatory was commissioned in 1675 by King Charles II and was the work of Sir Christopher Wren.
The observatory's Flamsteed House was the home of the first Astronomer Royal, John Flamsteed.
It played a major role in the history of astronomy and navigation, including the development of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
The Royal Observatory in Greenwich is the home of the Prime Meridian of the world, where longitude is defined as 0 degrees.
Currency Exchange Rates for United Kingdom1 GBP = 1.1887 € EUR
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1 GBP = 1.8555 $ CAD
1 GBP = 193.4419 ¥ JPY
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1 GBP = 9.5764 元CNY
1 GBP = 10.3774 圓 HKD
1 GBP = 2.0725 $ AUD
1 GBP = 2.2564 $ NZD
1 GBP = 1.3278 $ USD
1 GBP = 1.8555 $ CAD
1 GBP = 193.4419 ¥ JPY
1 GBP = 1.1126 ₣ CHF
1 GBP = 9.5764 元CNY
1 GBP = 10.3774 圓 HKD
1 GBP = 2.0725 $ AUD
1 GBP = 2.2564 $ NZD
NOTE: Exchange rates are an average currency exchange rate from several sources. These rates are not buy or sell rates which will depend on when and where you buy or sell currency.
Verified & Trusted Contact Information for Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich
Address:
Blackheath Ave, Greenwich, London SE10 8XJ, United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 20 8858 4422
Official Website: www.rmg.co.uk/royal-observatory
Latitude: 51.476852
Longitude: -0.0005
Map for Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich
Blackheath Current Weather
Local Temp: 16.7℃ / 62.1℉
High: 18.2℃ / 64.8℉
Low: 15.4℃ / 59.7℉
Humidity: 57 %
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The O2 Arena
The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to The O2 Arena is 2.9 Kilometers / 1.8 Miles
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The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to The Imperial War Museum is 7.8 Kilometers / 4.8 Miles
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The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to St. Paul's Cathedral is 7.9 Kilometers / 4.9 Miles
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The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to The Barbican Centre is 8.1 Kilometers / 5 Miles
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The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to The London Eye is 8.8 Kilometers / 5.4 Miles
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The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to The Tate Britain is 8.9 Kilometers / 5.5 Miles
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The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to Houses of Parliament is 9 Kilometers / 5.6 Miles
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The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to Big Ben is 9 Kilometers / 5.6 Miles
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The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to The West End Theatre District is 9.1 Kilometers / 5.7 Miles
Westminster Abbey
The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to Westminster Abbey is 9.2 Kilometers / 5.7 Miles
The Churchill War Rooms
The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to The Churchill War Rooms is 9.4 Kilometers / 5.8 Miles
Covent Garden
The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to Covent Garden is 9.4 Kilometers / 5.9 Miles
The Thames Path
The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to The Thames Path is 9.4 Kilometers / 5.9 Miles
Trafalgar Square
The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to Trafalgar Square is 9.5 Kilometers / 5.9 Miles
The National Portrait Gallery
The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to The National Portrait Gallery is 9.6 Kilometers / 5.9 Miles
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The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to The British Museum is 10 Kilometers / 6.2 Miles
Buckingham Palace
The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to Buckingham Palace is 10.2 Kilometers / 6.3 Miles
The British Library
The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to The British Library is 10.6 Kilometers / 6.6 Miles
Harrods
The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to Harrods is 11.6 Kilometers / 7.2 Miles
Madame Tussauds London
The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to Madame Tussauds London is 11.8 Kilometers / 7.4 Miles
Camden Market
The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to Camden Market is 11.9 Kilometers / 7.4 Miles
Royal Albert Hall
The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to Royal Albert Hall is 12.5 Kilometers / 7.8 Miles
Kensington Palace
The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to Kensington Palace is 13.3 Kilometers / 8.3 Miles
The Notting Hill Carnival
The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to The Notting Hill Carnival is 15.1 Kilometers / 9.4 Miles
The Royal Botanic Gardens
The Distance from Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to The Royal Botanic Gardens is 20.6 Kilometers / 12.8 Miles
