Royal Observatory Greenwich, Time Galleries

The Royal Observatory Greenwich is a must-visit for history and astronomy enthusiasts! Standing on the Prime Meridian is a unique experience, and the exhibits beautifully showcase the history of navigation and timekeeping. The view of London from the hill is stunning, adding to the charm. Highly recommended for a fascinating and educational visit!

Outstanding! Try to plan your visit so you are there at dusk. The view of the city while you stand on the Prime Meridian line is amazing and makes for a great photo op. I found the James Harrison clocks fascinating particularly his fourth version which may be the most important clock ever made. It is a steep climb up the paved path to reach the museum but worth the effort.

Our family’s recent visit to the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, London, was nothing short of a cosmic experience! Nestled atop Greenwich Park with sweeping views of the city, the observatory is a brilliant blend of history, science, and spectacle—perfect for family exploration. Starting with the Time Galleries, we were immediately drawn into the evolution of timekeeping. The interactive exhibits brought history to life, with beautifully restored artifacts like the Harrison clocks, which famously resolved the problem of longitude. For curious minds, both young and old, these are fantastic displays that spark wonder and awe about our world. Standing astride the Prime Meridian Line was a highlight—an unforgettable experience to be in two hemispheres at once. The sheer concept of Greenwich Mean Time and its global significance is something even kids can grasp when they’re literally stepping between east and west. The Peter Harrison Planetarium added another dimension to our visit. With its cutting-edge projection and comfortable reclining seats, it captivated us all as we journeyed through the cosmos. The show was breathtaking and so well explained that even our youngest felt like a junior astronaut by the end. Not to be missed is the spectacular view from the observatory grounds overlooking the Thames and the iconic London skyline. It made for a perfect end to our day, rounding off our scientific journey with the beauty of London’s architecture beneath a blanket of clear skies.