What is the Royal Observatory Greenwich famous for?

The Royal Observatory Greenwich is most famous as the home of the Prime Meridian. It's basically a longitudinal (north-south) marker, representing Longitude 0. Every place on earth could be measured in terms of its distance east or west from the Prime Meridian.

What can be seen in the Royal Observatory in Greenwich?

The Royal Observatory at Greenwich is the home of time and space, the Prime Meridian and Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

Why is Greenwich the center of the world?

Although it is not in the heart of the capital, Greenwich can claim to be at the center of the world as it is the home of the Greenwich Meridian, the line of 0 degrees longitude. In October 1884 a conference in Washington DC decided to adopt the Greenwich Meridian as the world's prime meridian.

Quick Info

Visit Duration: 2 hours

Timings: Everyday 10:00 am to 5:00

Entry type: Paid

Entry Fee: 1934

Entry Details: You must have a timed entry ticket to visit the Observatory

summary

The Royal Observatory Greenwich, located in London, United Kingdom, is a renowned scientific institution and historic landmark. Established in 1675, it has played a significant role in advancing astronomy, timekeeping, and navigation.

The observatory is situated in Greenwich Park, offering stunning views of London's skyline. One of its notable features is the Prime Meridian, which represents 0 degrees of longitude and serves as the reference point for measuring time and navigation around the globe.

The site includes the Astronomer Royal's residence, along with the Octagon Room, which houses original telescopes and scientific instruments used in the past. These artifacts provide insights into the history of astronomy and scientific exploration.

The Royal Observatory Greenwich features the Astronomy Centre, which offers interactive exhibits, multimedia presentations, and educational displays on celestial objects, space exploration, and the evolution of astronomical instruments.

Prime Meridian: The observatory is home to the Prime Meridian, which represents 0 degrees of longitude and divides the Earth into the Eastern and Western Hemispheres. Visitors can stand in line and have the unique experience of being in two hemispheres simultaneously.
Historic Significance: The Royal Observatory Greenwich has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1675. It played a crucial role in the development of accurate timekeeping and navigation methods, making it an important site for scientific advancements.
Astronomy Centre: The Astronomy Centre at the Royal Observatory offers a range of engaging exhibits and displays related to astronomy and space exploration. Visitors can learn about celestial objects, the universe, and the evolution of astronomical instruments through interactive displays and multimedia presentations.
Peter Harrison Planetarium: The observatory is home to the Peter Harrison Planetarium, a state-of-the-art digital planetarium that offers immersive shows and live presentations on astronomy and space. Visitors can experience a virtual journey through the cosmos and learn about the wonders of the universe.
Breathtaking Views: The Royal Observatory Greenwich is located in Greenwich Park, providing stunning views of London. Visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas of the city skyline from the hill where the observatory is situated.

Royal Observatory Greenwich Overview

Points Of Interest for Royal Observatory Greenwich

Prime Meridian: The Royal Observatory Greenwich is home to the Prime Meridian, the reference line for measuring longitude and dividing the Eastern and Western Hemispheres. Visitors can stand on this line and have the unique experience of being in both hemispheres at once.
Historic Significance: The observatory has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1675. It has been a center of astronomical research, timekeeping, and navigation, contributing significantly to scientific advancements.
Astronomer Royal: The observatory is associated with the prestigious position of Astronomer Royal, a title given to a prominent astronomer who serves as a scientific advisor to the British monarch. The Astronomer Royal's residence is located within the observatory complex.
Octagon Room: The Octagon Room houses a collection of historic telescopes and scientific instruments that were used for astronomical research and observation in the past. These artifacts offer a glimpse into the early days of astronomy and scientific exploration.
Spectacular Views: The Royal Observatory Greenwich is located in Greenwich Park, offering panoramic views of London's skyline. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking vistas of the city while exploring the observatory and its surroundings.
Time Ball: The observatory features a time ball that was installed in 1833. It drops at 1 p.m. every day, providing a visual signal for ships on the River Thames to set their chronometers accurately.
Greenwich Mean Time (GMT): The observatory played a crucial role in the development of GMT, the standard time used globally. It was once the prime reference for timekeeping and served as the foundation for the world's time zones.

Best time to visit Royal Observatory Greenwich

It can be quite busy at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, so arrive early to try and beat the crowds. You can also enjoy the view from the hill if you arrive early.