Royal Observatory Greenwich
Royal Observatory Greenwich
4
Historic SitesPoints of Interest & LandmarksObservatories & Planetariums
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
The prime meridian, zero degrees longitude, runs through the courtyard of the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, England, which was founded in 1675 by King Charles II.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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Neighbourhood: Greenwich
Greenwich Mean Time starts here, so to speak, as the very concept of global time was established at Royal Observatory, just one of several buildings of architectural interest in Greenwich. Indeed, the whole of Greenwich's historic town center, its Royal Park and a number of related buildings (and one world famous ship, the Cutty Sark) make up the UNESCO World Heritage site known as Maritime Greenwich. Today a laser beam is shot out across the night sky from the Observatory to mark the location of the Prime Meridian. Other bold (some say brash) 21st century additions to the area include landmarks such as The O2 entertainment complex (previously known as the Millennium Dome) and the Air Line cable cars, which offer scenic transport across the Thames between North Greenwich and the Royal Docks.
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- Richard SAngmering, United Kingdom789 contributionsWalking in historyLiterary walking where the world sets its time from. The obsevratory is steeped in amazing history and the views across london arespectacular. This was an amazing place to visit to learn how the world sets its time from the UK.Visited April 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 6 April 2024
- Veronika C1 contributionReally amazing time, would definitely recommend!We visited the planetarium and saw 6 shows over 2 days during the 100 year anniversary celebration. We saw the shows: Uranus a planetary catastrophe, Ted's Space Nightmare, Cosmic Meditation, We're All in the Dark, The Sky Tonight Down Under and The Gravitational Universe. We thought these were absolutely brilliantly presented and it was so much fun to listen to for anyone of any ability. All the staff were particularly lovely, and they even managed to squeeze us into a show without a booking due to some seats being free last minute! We have already seen all the regular shows at the planetarium so seeing these unique one-off shows was amazing too and so interesting. Hopefully the planetarium present more of these one-off shows as the themes/topics were very engaging and fascinating and I would love to see a broader range of topics too! The facilities were all really clean and tidy, and the planetarium seats very comfortable. I will absolutely be returning here and would recommend the planetarium to everyone! (PS to the planetarium please do more one-off shows like about Jupiter or Saturn or black holes! )Visited May 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 6 May 2024
- Jim BLincoln, Nebraska726 contributionsSkip Paying £20 Just to Stand on the Prime MeridianWhile I'm sure that this is a great place to visit, we were a bit overwhelmed by the crowds who are mainly there to get a selfie 🤳 along the Prime Meridian. While the one inside the gates may be nicely ordinated, you can still find the division between East and West longitude in other places. However, the views from this vista are well-worth the trekvto the top.Visited June 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 5 June 2024
- obizerokenobiLos Angeles, California193 contributionsWhere time begins.The British Royal Observatory is an observatory and the past home of several Astronomers Royal, including Ed Halley, namesake of the famous comet. Located at the top of a hill in London’s Greenwich neighborhood, it is also where the Prime Meridian is, which divides east and west and is where time begins – as such, it is thought of as the center of the world. It also is a great museum of astronomy and chronology. In addition, it provides a great view of London, as it is located atop a hill. The biggest downside is that one of the telescopes that visitors can look through contains an image of the planet Uranus at the end, instead of Pluto – the dog! This is a disappointing downgrade from when we visited many years ago, probably due to the delisting of Pluto – the planet. The observatory is an easy walk from the Greenwich Pier and getting there includes a stroll through a lovely park. Very much worth visiting.Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review and let us know how your experience at the Observatory was. We're very glad to hear you enjoyed your visit thoroughly, and hope to welcome you back again in the future. For those looking to visit the Observatory, there are two pathways uphill from a Greenwich town approach, the main hill is a steep incline, and we suggest those facing it pace themselves and make sure they have rest stops to both admire the view and catch their breath. There is a level approach for those coming to the Observatory from Blackheath, more information on accessing the site is available on our website. We have daily family engagement sessions for visitors to take part in and enjoy, and for those who are interested in looking through telescopes, our Astronomy team deliver Evenings with the Moon (and or) Stars where you can look through the Great Equatorial Telescope. For more information, dates and tickets, please visit our website.Written 19 July 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited June 2024Travelled with familyWritten 14 July 2024
- permia67,090 contributionsHome of so many observations and discoveriesIt was a marvellous visit to where so many astronomical observations and discoveries were made. Discoveries and inventions that changed the world. Flamsteed House was the residence of the Astronomers Royal and it was fascinating to see homely details such as exhortations on what to take before dinner, including 5 grains of rhubarb. Harrison’s clocks were great to view. His chronometers enabled more accurate sea voyages, revolutionising territorial explorations and trade. Telescopes were the essential of the scientists work and many fine examples are here. Including particularly the Great Equatorial.Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review and feedback. We're thrilled to hear you had a marvellous visit to the Royal Observatory, and it's great to see such fantastic photographs taken during your visit! We have lots of interesting topics for anyone who may be interested in the history of observation, time and longitude. Flamsteed House and its apartments in particular is a soft spot for many who work at the Observatory, as it brings the history back to the simplistic life of ordinary people whilst discovering extraordinary things! For anyone looking to learn more alongside a self-guided visit, we offer free daily talks and engagement sessions (subject to weather and staffing) in the Observatory. For more information, please speak to members of staff on the day of your visit and they will provide you with as much information as they can.Written 22 July 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited May 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 17 July 2024
- Robert S1 contributionAbsolutely magical Evening with the Moon. Amazing staff. Will definitely visit again!Absolutely magical "Evening with the Moon". Amazing, friendly staff were really helpful (let us in early to use facilities). The talk in the Planetarium was fantastic, really enthusiastic speaker who bought the event to life. Learned so much from her! Then we were able to look through various telescopes with some experts who were so accommodating and answered all our daft questions. Will definitely visit again!Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review and feedback. We're very pleased to hear you had an amazing time at our Evening with the Moon event, and that you all learned a lot and had fun looking through the telescopes! Our Astronomers and Astronomy team work tirelessly to bring everything to life and share their enthusiasm with others so it's great to hear it was well received. Here at the Royal Observatory and Planetarium no question is a daft question! Our staff will do their best to answer any questions people may have, and if they can't, they surely know who will know the answer and direct you to them. We hold Evenings with the Moon and Evenings with the Stars throughout the course of the year as well as lots of other interesting events, for upcoming events like these and ticket prices please visit our website, and we look forward to welcoming you back for more telescope pursuits in the future.Written 14 August 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited June 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 6 August 2024
- vichy587 contributionsEven if you're not into astronomy or science - definitely worth a visit!I was of two minds when I was deciding whether or not to visit - it's the prime meridian, so I thought I ought to since I was already in Greenwich, but astronomy is really not my thing. I'm so glad I went!! It was very interesting to see the evolution of the observatory and how astronomers evolved the setting of the meridian line, and which ones carry through even to today. Also interesting to see their historic instruments and how the lodgings evolved with the family size and needs of the royal astronomers over time. One watchout - if you are walking up to the observatory from the Queens House or Maritime museum - Google maps says that it's a relatively flat half mile walk. IT'S NOT RELATIVELY FLAT. I'm fairly fit and I was huffing and puffing on the steep walk up to the observatory. I think there is car access - that's definitely the better way to go unless you're up for a light workout.Hi Vichy, Thank you for taking the time to leave a review in regard to your visit to the Royal Observatory last week. We're very glad that you felt it was a worthwhile trip (especially after walking the hill!). It's great to hear that you enjoyed the displays and galleries we have on offer, and learned a lot from your visit about the evolution of astronomy and timekeeping (and how it continues today). You're completely right, the steep hill (Castle Hill) up to the Observatory from the Park is quite a feat. It's approximately a 90% incline, and though the views are magnificent, it can be strenous. We encourage people to take the hill very slowly (stop and take in the view) or there is a second less steep approach on Blackheath Avenue which is longer, but easier on the calves. For those with access requirements an approach from Blackheath is best as this way is completely level.Written 20 December 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited December 2024Travelled soloWritten 13 December 2024
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4.0
3,723 reviews
Excellent
1,651
Very good
1,336
Average
510
Poor
150
Terrible
76
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Jens A
Copenhagen, Denmark174 contributions
Apr 2023 • Friends
Interesting exhibition about navigation and the importance of watches. If you're into that sort of thing - not everyone in our company was. Afterwards you can go for a walk in the large park and take the train back to London from Blackheath. We took the City Experiences boat from Tower Hill to Greenwich, which we can recommend in nice weather.
Written 2 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your comment "432jensa"
Thank you for your comment, I'm glad you enjoyed seeing our collection.
The views available from the Observatory and Park are truly incredible and unique.
Written 27 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sarah C
1 contribution
Dec 2023 • Solo
This place is an incredible tour. It is a very important place for world history, full of interesting facts for adults and children to learn about. It has an incredible view of London and is a trip that is well worth it! I would like to give special thanks to the guide Priscila and the astronomer Tânia who gave incredible presentations in Portuguese and taught me a lot. I recommend!!!

Written 18 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AnaPiussi
London, UK1,719 contributions
Jan 2023 • Friends
I’ve been around the Observatory many times as I am always walking around there at the Park. I think it is a MUST go see place in London. From there you have a beautiful view of a vast area of London until The Shard. The museum it is interesting and being able to take a photo with one foot at the East sode of the world and one at the West side it is the main purpose. Thinking thar the GMT line was discovered in this specific spot it is amazing. You can see the main telescope that was used. And the imaginary line it is is market at the house walls and at the floor. If you don’t feel like paying you are still able to see from the gates where the line is crossing.
Written 5 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi AnaPiussi
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave this wonderful comment.
As someone always in the park, I would recommend looking at Royal Museums Greenwich's Membership offers.
It grants you free access to any of our sites, reduced prices on events, discount in our shops and cafe's as well as being kept up to date with what's happening here in Greenwich.
We are glad that you had a wonderful time and we hope to see you again soon!
Written 27 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lap S
Australia41 contributions
May 2024 • Family
Ok but grossly overpriced. You really only pay to see the Meridien line. Unfortunately they don't allow it to project past the paying area to the masses of people milling outside the fence who don't (or cannot) pay the costly entrance fee.
Containing such a famous 'line' is childish money making.
As you get closer to the entrance the path is packed
Containing such a famous 'line' is childish money making.
As you get closer to the entrance the path is packed
Written 20 May 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sandy W
Vancouver, Canada1,925 contributions
June 2023 • Couples
Took the subway from Wimbledon to Greenwich. Took the number 188 bus to the Maritime Museum area. Climbed up the hill to the Royal Observatory. Then I found out that it cost 30 pounds to go in and see the museum and stand on the Prime Meridian line. I can understand charging for the museum. But the Prime Meridian? That’s ridiculous. There wasn’t even a rate for seniors. Very disappointing. I stood on the equator in South America, and the charge was a dollar or two and that also allowed you access to the Aboriginal village. Go to the Maritime Museum at the ground level and also the Queen’s House. They are free. Come on London. You can do better!
Written 10 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi "Sandy5259"
I'm sorry you were given the wrong information about our pricing. Entry to the Royal Observatory is ÂŁ18.
The Prime Meridian line runs far beyond the Royal observatory and so standing upon it is not locked behind our gates. However, standing on the Prime Meridian line and being able to take photos on it with the Airy Transit Circle Telescope in the background, as well as taking advantage of everything else our site has to offer is well worth the ÂŁ18.
For those looking for free options in Greenwich, the National Maritime museum and the Queens house have no admissions fees but do rely on donations to continue to provide the excellent experiences they are.
Written 27 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Fee1814
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates98 contributions
Feb 2020 • Family
After years of saying I wanted to visit the Observatory I final got there with my daughter in February. Unfortunately, we arrived quite late and didn’t have much time to explore the museum fully but what we did see was excellent. The displays were well laid out and informative. It is quite expensive to get in so if you are in a rush just pop to the Meridian line just outside the museum.
Written 18 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
CheekyLondon
Southend-on-Sea, UK1,646 contributions
Oct 2020
We went here during COVID 19social distancing and it's very well organised with a one way system. Obviously less visitors at the moment, so a pleasant experience and very few people. I like the one way system they have organised. Lots of interesting displays and artefacts about the history of nautical time. The building itself is also interesting, detailing the lives of notable last occupants. A good shop selling interesting products. And of course the meridian line is a highlight. We went on my ArtFund pass, so it was ÂŁ8 each and at this price is good value for money. We spend about 90 minutes inside.
Written 4 November 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for sharing your lovely review of your experience. We are glad to hear you had an enjoyable experience and we hope it won't be long before we welcome you back to Royal Museums Greenwich.
Written 31 December 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Joyce
502 contributions
June 2021
As of writing, ÂŁ16 per adult to enter to Royal Observatory is a little steep for some, especially if you're going in with an adult family. While I don't wish to deter anyone from going in and having a great time within the observatory, there's actually a way to take a photo with half of you in the East and West without having to fork out any money. Just outside the wall clock, also known as the 'Shepherd Gate Clock', you'll notice a small black gate to the right of the clock. There should be no lock on it; be brave and pull it open and hey presto! you'll find a small strip of metal running from the wall along to the floor, with a crumbling stone engraving indicating that you staring at the East and West longitude. A lot of people don't dare to touch the gate because there's no signage and no one wants to get into trouble, but you're free to go through! The path will also take you to the Royal Observatory Garden, another hidden gem that can be found through a little daring and exploring.
Written 27 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sai
Bengaluru, India14 contributions
June 2023 • Family
The Royal Observatory is located on a hill. It is a very nice place. It costs 18pounds for an adult and 9pounds for a child(5-15years)(Under 4-Free) to enter the Royal Observatory. The Royal Observatory has a museum and the zero degree longitudinal line. It is easy to go there from Maritime Museum to Old Royal Naval College as there is a path surrounded with greenery. There is also a board showing the lengths of one foot, two feet, three inches, one yard and more other types of measurements.
Written 22 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi User (or Maps40871465856 if that's the name you prefer to go by.)
Thank you for posting this review. Not many people talk about the boards for measurements and it is one of the many parts of our collection that make the site special.
Written 4 August 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
violet339
London, UK406 contributions
July 2023 • Family
I understand the Observatory's significance but, for me personally, it's not a must-see attraction. I had family visiting who wanted to go so go I did but I have to say I found it pretty boring really.
I thought the camera obscura was cool and of course the meridian line, although I've crossed that before in the tunnel. But it was hot and stuffy in the museum rooms and I didn't find the exhibits very engaging.
The best part for me was the walk up and the views from the top... I do like Greenwich Park and the surrounding area.
The ticket included the Cutty Sark which is well worth a look around, especially if you have kids in the group who will surely enjoy it.
I thought the camera obscura was cool and of course the meridian line, although I've crossed that before in the tunnel. But it was hot and stuffy in the museum rooms and I didn't find the exhibits very engaging.
The best part for me was the walk up and the views from the top... I do like Greenwich Park and the surrounding area.
The ticket included the Cutty Sark which is well worth a look around, especially if you have kids in the group who will surely enjoy it.
Written 12 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Violet
I'm really glad you enjoyed your trip to the Cutty Sark and that your parents enjoyed the trip here.
Royal Museums Greenwich has something for everyone and the historical significance of one thing may not appeal to someone as much as another.
To help with this We offer Day Pass tickets that combine the Observatory and the Cutty Sark and cut 25% off the admissions price.
Written 4 August 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
How long would you say you could do this in? We’re thinking of visiting the painted hall first and then coming here. Any advice? Any places to park a car? Thanks in advance.
Written 29 October 2020
Hello,
I think hour to hour and a half is more than enough for a quality visit at the observatory. I would recommend to first see the observatory (the Greenwich meridian), and then carry onto something else. As for the parking, not too sure as I don’t drive and we used the public transport. Best wishes and lots of fun
Written 30 October 2020
Hi , is the laser along the meridian operating?
If so at what times?
Thank you
Anne
Written 6 November 2019
It's best to check with Observatory, as you will appreciate this is only seen in twilight dark, not during a daylight visit
Written 7 November 2019

Lorena Moreno
Vila Velha, ES
2 contributions
Is it necessary to enter/pay in the Observatory to see the "Greenwich line" ? (Ă© preciso entrar/pagara o observatĂłrio para ver a linha de Greenwich?
Written 25 September 2019
the Greenwich line is free to see
Written 28 September 2019
Ciao, è possibile visionare meridiano e l'orologio senza prendere i ticket del Royal Observatory? Oppure sono attrazioni a pagamento? Grazie!
Written 4 June 2019
Salve, da fuori è possibile vederli entrambi ovviamente non vedi la linea a terra con tutti i riferimenti e comunque tutto l'osservatorio merita la visita ed il prezzo del biglietto .
Io ho fatto un biglietto cumulativo che prevedeva visita al Cutty Sark e l'Osservatorio , fatto tutto on line ricevuti a casa i biglietti risparmiato il 10% .
saluti
Written 4 June 2019
Esp Weekends before or after lunch. Opening hours 10.00-17.00. I recommend to be there at 10 am or during lunch or at 4pm. Best time might be 10am
Written 4 May 2019
Hi! I wonder if we can se the Royal observatory Greenwich Clock without buying any tickets. Is the clock on the outside? I have the same question about the meridian. Is the meridian marked also outside the ticketed area? We can only stop there for a short moment, so it's not worth for us to buy tickets.
Thanks in advance!
Written 1 May 2019
Can any one tell me how long the audio tours are at the Royal Observatory?
Written 5 March 2019
I would say allow an hour or two at least; maybe more if you wanted to spend some time at the planetarium part; we got there rather late in the day and had to rush through , but the good part of that is it was not crowded that time of day..... it is quite a hike to the top of the hill where the observatory is located ... in a pretty park; lovely views of London from up there... but it did take a bit of time getting up there and we were trying to rush to get there in time so I was quite out of breath!!!
Written 5 March 2019
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