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
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingAdmission tickets
from $23.42
All you need to step foot in the door.
Full view










What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Top ways to experience Royal Observatory Greenwich
The area
Address
Neighborhood: 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.
Reach out directly
Best nearby
Restaurants
1,530 within 3 miles
Attractions
1,392 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- Jens ACopenhagen, Denmark150 contributionsWorth a visitInteresting 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.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 June 27, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited April 2023Traveled with friendsWritten May 2, 2023
- AnaPiussiLondon, United Kingdom1,015 contributionsFoot at East and foot at WestI’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.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 June 27, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited January 2023Traveled with friendsWritten May 5, 2023
- Sai13 contributionsThe Royal Observatory is on a hill. It has a beautiful view and has the 0degree longitudinal line.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.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 August 4, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited June 2023Traveled with familyWritten June 22, 2023
- violet339London, United Kingdom418 contributionsI would personally give it a missI 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.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 August 4, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited July 2023Traveled with familyWritten July 12, 2023
- Alex570Tallinn, Estonia68 contributionsQuestionable valueGreenwich itself is a large and beautiful place - there is a large park, a museum, the Cutty Sark ship and an observatory. The last of these is the least interesting; it might be a good idea to go in rainy weather; but otherwise not. Nothing much to see. At the same time, the planetarium show is quite interesting and a good way to rest your legs. Most tourists take pictures of themselves at the zero meridian.Hi Alex Thanks for taking the time to leave a review. There is an incredible amount to do in Greenwich, that is indeed true. I'm very glad you enjoyed your trip to the Cutty Sark at least. The National Maritime Museum, Queens House, Cutty Sark and Royal Observatory are all part of Royal Museums Greenwich. On the Royal Museums Greenwich website you can find our range of offers that improve the value of your tickets to our sites. The Royal Observatory is a major part of British History and our role in Navigation at Sea (Which was vital for ships such as the Cutty Sark), Time keeping, and the legacy of King Charles ii and Sir Christopher Ren. The Prime Meridian Line is also a point (Or line...) of global significance. Hundreds of thousands of people from around the world visit us every year to learn more about our stories and to stand where the East and West hemispheres begin. While the soothing sounds and voices within the Planetarium may tempt many with the opportunity for a nap. Our shows are so much more than just relaxing. With actual Astronomers taking you on journeys through space, we help introduce people to the vastness and complexities of our solar system and the universe. For anyone interested in the science and history of our world and beyond, the Royal Observatory and London's only Planetarium are a must.Written August 24, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited July 2023Written August 21, 2023
- Łukasz KWetzlar, Germany8 contributionsOnline guidance onlyAlready been multiple times in London, never been in Greenwich though. Ticket was quite expensive -18£. Taking into consideration that it was not guided with human, but only with online video - make sure you have sufficient internet data, and also to take your own headphones. Other than that - it is definitely place worth visiting!Visited September 2023Traveled soloWritten September 19, 2023
- ndw78Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom1,748 contributionsA must see for its history & Amazing views of the city as wellThis is the place where all time starts. Stand on the GMT line and see what the time difference is for all around the world. Go through the museum and find out it’s past and how it was all discovered and used. First time I’ve been to this area and much history to see as well as amazing views of the city. Free for key workers via blue light tooVisited October 2023Traveled soloWritten October 3, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.0
3,631 reviews
Excellent
1,591
Very good
1,319
Average
501
Poor
146
Terrible
74
Peter H
Ipswich, UK137 contributions
Mar 2020 • Couples
What a fascinating place. The whole history of time and it's effects on a developing, largely undiscovered planet and the men who sailed it's seas brilliantly displayed and explained in this wonderful building with it's breathtaking views across modern London.
The development of the timepieces (nearly all English as far as I can make out) that played such a vital part in exploration and world trade sounds a fairly boring topic to many, but here they make the subject come alive ...... and it's the only place you can stand with a foot in different hemispheres at the original ground zero.
Not to be missed .... even if the climb nearly killed me.
The development of the timepieces (nearly all English as far as I can make out) that played such a vital part in exploration and world trade sounds a fairly boring topic to many, but here they make the subject come alive ...... and it's the only place you can stand with a foot in different hemispheres at the original ground zero.
Not to be missed .... even if the climb nearly killed me.
Written March 9, 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.
That Dubai Blogger
Dubai, United Arab Emirates221 contributions
Jan 2020 • Friends
Started of our day at the maritime museum which offered free entrance the walked along the park all the way to the top and we were just speechless. Most people were busy engaged in the prime meridian line but the view really got us. You can get the best view of central london and Canary Wharf from there and make sure u check the weather and time to go. If it’s too windy and foggy you won’t be able to enjoy the view and also it’s best to go during the day for good pictures because at night, even though the skyline will be bright and lit, you still won’t be able to get the best pictures.
Written February 20, 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.
CatherineHabbie
London, UK152 contributions
Aug 2020
It would be a shame to miss this vital piece of history on your trip to London. The observatory offers a panoramic view of the financial capital of the country, juxtaposing the old and new. Don't miss the ferry ride on your return back or the exciting alternative of walking under the river Thames through the tunnel.
A meandering path through the Greenwich Park leads one uphill to the observatory. The structure is remarkably well-maintained for its age. Winding spiral staircases lead one through the gallery that houses the ancient clocks that were precursors to the modern GPS navigation, to the impressive dome gallery that was literally a gateway to the stars. Massive telescopes that are almost abandoned, line the room and one can imagine the shutters open on clear nights for a celestial feast.
As one leaves the building, one could almost miss the camera Obscura & the Prime Meridian, if one weren't very observant. The line has the prominent cities of the world marked with their old names and their longitudinal distance from the line. With social distancing in place, it is one family at a time and the mask is not compulsory outside the building. Don't miss the view of the observatory from the shady tree nearby. In a matter of seconds, the magic moment where East meets West is over.
The gift shop which maintains a few remarkable items of interest & housed the audio guides which weren't offered due to social distancing.
A meandering path through the Greenwich Park leads one uphill to the observatory. The structure is remarkably well-maintained for its age. Winding spiral staircases lead one through the gallery that houses the ancient clocks that were precursors to the modern GPS navigation, to the impressive dome gallery that was literally a gateway to the stars. Massive telescopes that are almost abandoned, line the room and one can imagine the shutters open on clear nights for a celestial feast.
As one leaves the building, one could almost miss the camera Obscura & the Prime Meridian, if one weren't very observant. The line has the prominent cities of the world marked with their old names and their longitudinal distance from the line. With social distancing in place, it is one family at a time and the mask is not compulsory outside the building. Don't miss the view of the observatory from the shady tree nearby. In a matter of seconds, the magic moment where East meets West is over.
The gift shop which maintains a few remarkable items of interest & housed the audio guides which weren't offered due to social distancing.
Written August 10, 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 October 9, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Freezer49
Romford, UK138 contributions
Jan 2020
Visit was planned well in advance. Travel was by public transport.
The walk through part of Greenwich past the Maritime Museum and up the hill to the Observatory, on a clear and dry day, gave wonderful views across the Thames and across London.
Activities at the Observatory were arranged and linked to a project the children were doing at school. The workshop, time to explore the galleries and a presentation in the planetarium were all excellent for these Year 5 children, the adults enjoyed them too. Would recommend for children and adults alike.
The walk through part of Greenwich past the Maritime Museum and up the hill to the Observatory, on a clear and dry day, gave wonderful views across the Thames and across London.
Activities at the Observatory were arranged and linked to a project the children were doing at school. The workshop, time to explore the galleries and a presentation in the planetarium were all excellent for these Year 5 children, the adults enjoyed them too. Would recommend for children and adults alike.
Written January 9, 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.
Joyce
511 contributions
Jun 2021
As of writing, £16 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 June 27, 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.
Lenny
London, UK45 contributions
Nov 2020 • Family
The whole area of Greenwich is fascinating and diverse. We have wanted to visit he Royal Observatory at Greenwich for many years.. Covid procedures possibly impacted significantly.
In a nutshell the relatively brief visit cost £75 (£90 including beverages) and thankfully included the Curry Sark exhibit.
The Royal Observatory made a fascinating history turgid and uninspiring. Perhaps the Covid limitations impacted significantly but suffice to say it was as appetising as a stale ham sandwich
The expense was somewhat redeemed by the Cutty Sark visit, despite also failing to bring the voyages alive due to poor AV equipment and investment. The Captain’s presentation was a fun experience for all
In a nutshell the relatively brief visit cost £75 (£90 including beverages) and thankfully included the Curry Sark exhibit.
The Royal Observatory made a fascinating history turgid and uninspiring. Perhaps the Covid limitations impacted significantly but suffice to say it was as appetising as a stale ham sandwich
The expense was somewhat redeemed by the Cutty Sark visit, despite also failing to bring the voyages alive due to poor AV equipment and investment. The Captain’s presentation was a fun experience for all
Written November 9, 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 your feedback. We are sorry to hear your visit did not match your expectations and will pass your feedback onto the relevant teams. We are pleased to hear you enjoyed meeting Captain Woodget at Cutty Sark. We hope to see you at Royal Museums Greenwich again soon.
Written December 31, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
ian l
Rotherham, UK130 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
Attended a valentines evening at the observatory. The tour included a show at the planetarium a visit to to the telescope. They then had talks on various astronomers and navigation. I have an interest in space and travel so found it very interesting. The tour is after public opening so there are not loads of people and you can enjoy the exhibits in a more leisurely fashion. Would recommend a tour.
Written February 15, 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.
Jo K
Worcester, UK6,639 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
Do walk up to see the observatory it's a sight to behold but if you don't want to pay £15 to go in and tick the bucket list box of standing on the 0° meridien line then take the disabled recommended route up the hill and the line is shown in brick paving... see my pics below....
The view from the top is amazing then walk the steep way back down. The time ball drops at 1pm everyday. We didn't know this till after our visit. You can also see this from outside the gates.
The view from the top is amazing then walk the steep way back down. The time ball drops at 1pm everyday. We didn't know this till after our visit. You can also see this from outside the gates.
Written February 27, 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.
Spachick64
Binfield, UK687 contributions
Nov 2020 • Couples
A must do UK historical attraction ! Probably best done on a dry day unlike ours where it had rained most of the day . Situated at the top of a fairly steep path . Just take your time and it can be done in around 5 minutes . At the bottom the hill is Greenwich Park . At the top there are great views over London . The visitors experience is a little reduced due to COVID restrictions as the visit is arranged as a one way route which is contrary to the way you would normally do it
Very interesting learning about aviation by the stars and standardisation of time across the country . Of course we’d gone to stand on the Meridian Line with one foot in the east and the other the west.
Currently no cafe facilities available and it was too wet to sit outside but well worth a visit . All ages would enjoy different parts . Little bits of interactive features with the talking clock
Very interesting learning about aviation by the stars and standardisation of time across the country . Of course we’d gone to stand on the Meridian Line with one foot in the east and the other the west.
Currently no cafe facilities available and it was too wet to sit outside but well worth a visit . All ages would enjoy different parts . Little bits of interactive features with the talking clock
Written November 5, 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 your feedback. We are glad to hear you had a great visit and hope you will be able to visit Royal Museums Greenwich again soon.
Written December 31, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jens A
Copenhagen, Denmark150 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 May 2, 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 June 27, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Are Taxis available at the Royal Observatory
Taxi's can drop you off or pick you up from the General Wolfe Statue just outside the Observatory. Numbers are also available onsite for close by taxi services.
Eskimogirl25
Tunbridge Wells, Kent54 contributions
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.
AleksAE
London, UK24 contributions
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
Anne B
london9 contributions
Hi , is the laser along the meridian operating?
If so at what times?
Thank you
Anne
455Douglas1948
Uckfield, UK353 contributions
It's best to check with Observatory, as you will appreciate this is only seen in twilight dark, not during a daylight visit
Lorena Moreno
Vila Velha, ES2 contributions
Is it necessary to enter/pay in the Observatory to see the "Greenwich line" ? (é preciso entrar/pagara o observatório para ver a linha de Greenwich?
Anneke S
Sommelsdijk, The Netherlands2,701 contributions
the Greenwich line is free to see
AntoR_07
Bari, Italy382 contributions
Ciao, è possibile visionare meridiano e l'orologio senza prendere i ticket del Royal Observatory? Oppure sono attrazioni a pagamento? Grazie!
Massimo C
Rome, Italy49 contributions
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
Can anyone tell me the least busy times?
Anschwae
Zurich, Switzerland568 contributions
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
Isabel M
Nacka, Sweden433 contributions
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!
Erik N
152 contributions
Yes, is outside.
Larry K
Nebraska397 contributions
Can any one tell me how long the audio tours are at the Royal Observatory?
ellenkay
Saint Louis, MO1,016 contributions
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!!!
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listingRoyal Observatory Greenwich - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Royal Observatory Greenwich
- Royal Observatory Greenwich admission prices can vary. Entrance tickets currently cost $23.83, while a popular guided tour starts around $19.19 per person.
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Royal Observatory Greenwich:
- Royal Observatory Greenwich Entrance Ticket (From $23.83)
- Westminster to Greenwich Sightseeing Thames Cruise in London (From $19.19)
- The London Pass®: Unlimited access to 85+ top attractions (From $108.18)
- Go City: London Explorer Pass - Choose 2 to 7 Attractions (From $65.68)
- Royal Museums Greenwich Day Pass (From $35.67)
- Hotels near Royal Observatory Greenwich:
- (0.35 mi) Number 37
- (0.36 mi) ibis London Greenwich
- (0.76 mi) Staycity Aparthotels, London, Greenwich High Road
- (0.53 mi) Novotel London Greenwich
- (0.39 mi) The Mitre by Innkeeper's Collection
- Restaurants near Royal Observatory Greenwich:
- (0.11 mi) The Pavilion Cafe
- (0.28 mi) The Plume of Feathers
- (0.39 mi) The Prince of Greenwich Pub
- (0.31 mi) Heap's Sausages
- (0.39 mi) Goddards at Greenwich
- Attractions near Royal Observatory Greenwich:
- (0.00 mi) Monumento A James Wolfe
- (0.01 mi) The Prime Meridian Line
- (0.05 mi) Peter Harrison Planetarium
- (0.13 mi) Queen's House
- (0.28 mi) Cutty Sark Rig Climb Experience
Royal Observatory Greenwich Information
Excellent Reviews | 1,472 |
---|---|
Very Good Reviews | 1,260 |
Royal Observatory Greenwich Photos | 3,406 |