Greenwich Royal Observatory

Visit the famous home of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) at the Greenwich Royal Observatory (famously known as the centre of time), where you can stand on the iconic Prime Meridian Line. This imaginary line represents the starting point for measuring longitude and divides the eastern and western hemispheres. Did you know that since the 16th December 1999, the line has been marked by a powerful green laser shining north across the London Night Sky? Kids will love the opportunity to simultaneously stand in the eastern and western hemispheres.

Visit the Time Galleries and discover how you can find where you are at sea! You'll see a collection of early astronomical instruments and one of the largest telescopes in the whole world! You can see the Isaac Newton Telescope and the Great Equatorial Telescope! Initially intended for astrophotography, it became super important in researching double stars and meteorological and magnetic observations! Just think of how many astronomical observations have been made here!

The observatory contains many artefacts, including a 28-inch refracting telescope, the Anglo-Dutch Jacobus Kapteyn Telescope, and the most accurate pendulum clock ever built in multiple copies—the 20th-century, Russian-made F.M. Fedchenko Clock. You'll even learn all about star charts, accurate star maps, clock stars, and how accurate clocks came to exist!

Step into the Peter Harrison Planetarium, where you'll take a trip into outer space and discover a wide variety of space-themed shows, including learning about the other planets, seeing the stars, and plenty of kid-friendly shows! This state-of-the-art digital planetarium offers breathtaking shows that transport you to distant galaxies and explore the wonders of our solar system. The immersive experience is perfect for sparking curiosity and wonder in young minds. From stellar observations and real-life space photography to the exploration of safeguarding our planet, the incredible planetarium shows held here will literally blow your mind.

Interactive Exhibits and Educational Fun

The Royal Greenwich Observatory is also packed with interactive exhibits that engage children and adults alike. In the Time and Longitude Gallery, discover the history of timekeeping and navigation. Learn about the quest to determine longitude at sea, a challenge that puzzled scientists for centuries. The gallery features John Harrison's famous marine timekeepers, who revolutionised navigation and saved countless lives.

Flamsteed House

As you explore Flamsteed House, the original observatory building, step back in time. Named after the first Astronomical Observatory, John Flamsteed, this historic house offers a glimpse into the lives of the astronomers who once worked here. Did you know the world's earliest public time signal is on top of the house? It's a bright red time ball that's been in operation since 1833. The Octagon Room's stunning views of Greenwich and the River Thames are a particular highlight. The Octagon Room (built in the 17th Century), with its amazing views of Greenwich and the River Thames, is a particular highlight.

Family-Friendly Activities and Events

The Royal Observatory Greenwich regularly hosts family-friendly activities and events that make learning about space and science more enjoyable! Check their schedule for special workshops, themed days, and astronomy nights.

The educational workshops offer a range of activities, from building and launching rockets to stargazing and learning about the planets. Space Camp is perfect for young aspiring astronomers and scientists. There are also VR experiences where you can navigate the universe like a floating astronaut!

Listen up! Have you heard about the Observatory Unlocked sessions? Every weekend, your kids can experiment with telescopes, learn about the life cycles of stars, and even touch a meteorite. With a fantastic team of Observatory Explainers, they'll perform live science demonstrations and astronomy sessions for all ages! From exploring the surface of Mars and getting hands-on with a telescope AND sextant to seeing the invisible, there are plenty of science projects to keep the kids entertained at this 'hands-on' science centre.

Visitors can safely observe the sun on clear days through specially equipped telescopes. The knowledgeable staff-guided solar viewing sessions explain the features of our closest star, including sunspots and solar flares.

Don't forget to download the FREE audio guide! You can follow the tour on your phone, a brand new way to explore the Royal Observatory.

Why We Recommend The Royal Observatory, Greenwich

The Royal Observatory Greenwich is more than just a museum; it's an adventure in learning and discovery. From standing on the Prime Meridian to exploring the stars in the planetarium, the Royal Observatory Greenwich offers unforgettable experiences. It's a place where family memories are made, and kids can develop a lifelong interest in science and the natural world.

"As astronomy geeks, the Royal Observatory at Greenwich was on our must-see list for our trip to London. It was wonderful to learn about the history of the observatory and the search for a sea clock that would help navigators measure longitude. The guide who gave a talk on the topic was knowledgeable, engaging, and actually quite funny. The views were fantastic and we thoroughly enjoyed the exhibits." - Jill

- See the incredible and famous Prime Meridian Line

- Explore the incredible universe with the planetarium shows

- See spectacular views and London's iconic skyline