Are guides available at the Observatory?

Yes! Knowledgeable guides are available for tours. Your tickets also include audio guides so you can learn more about each exhibit at your own pace.

What’s special about the Prime Meridian Line?

Standing on the Prime Meridian Line lets you place one foot in the Eastern Hemisphere and the other in the Western. It’s an iconic photo opportunity as this is the only place on Earth where you can do this.

Are there any age restrictions for visiting the Royal Observatory?

The Observatory is family-friendly. While young children may find some exhibits challenging, interactive sections and the planetarium offer engaging experiences for all ages.

Do I need to arrive early for my time slot?

It’s best to arrive 10–15 minutes early, especially if you already have tickets. This gives you time to stroll through Greenwich Park and enjoy the views before your visit.

What’s the weather policy?

As parts of the Observatory are outdoors, plan accordingly. The site remains open rain or shine, though some outdoor exhibits may close temporarily in severe weather.

Is the Royal Observatory part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Yes! The Royal Observatory is part of Maritime Greenwich, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes other historic landmarks in the area.

Experience the best of Royal Observatory Greenwich

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Closed for renovations!

The Peter Harrison Planetarium at the Royal Observatory Greenwich closed on 8 September 2025 for the First Light renovation, which will run until spring 2028. When it reopens, you can explore brand-new galleries, interactive displays, and striking modern architecture!

Children gazing at stars inside Peter Harrison Planetarium, Royal Observatory Greenwich.

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Tickets

Royal Observatory Greenwich & Prime Meridian Entry Tickets

Stand on the Prime Meridian and explore the birthplace of Greenwich Mean Time.

Everything you get: Entry to the Royal Observatory in Greenwich and a multilingual audio guide (including British Sign Language).
Why choose this: Follow in the footsteps of astronomers at the Royal Observatory and stand on the world-famous Prime Meridian Line with this ticket.
Upgrades: Enhance your visit with a Royal Museums Greenwich Day Pass or enjoy early entry with an exclusive guided tour for a deeper visit of the Observatory away from the crowds.

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Tickets

Royal Museums Greenwich Day Pass

Save time and discover the best of Greenwich, the Cutty Sark and Royal Observatory, in one day with a single pass.

Everything you get: Entry to the legendary Cutty Sark, the world’s last surviving tea clipper, the historic Royal Observatory, home of Greenwich Mean Time, as well as access to National Maritime Museum and The Queen's house, with a multilingual audio guide.
Why choose this: Short on time? This pass is the most convenient way to explore Greenwich’s maritime and scientific heritage in a single day, helping you see more in less time.

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The stars are still calling!

The Planetarium at the Royal Observatory is temporarily closed, but the cosmos isn't out of reach. Book tickets for the hands-on Astronomers experience at the nearby National Maritime Museum instead.

Children interacting with a globe at the Astronomers Take Over event, National Maritime Museum.

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Combos

Combo: Royal Observatory Greenwich Tickets + Thames River Cruise

What to bring

Royal Observatory Greenwich

Make sure to bring your tickets, either printed or on your device, along with a valid photo ID for entry.

Thames River Cruise

Keep your cruise ticket ready, either printed or digital, and arrive at your selected pier a few minutes before departure.

What's not allowed

Royal Observatory Greenwich

Drones, bicycles, roller skates, balloons, and selfie sticks are prohibited.
Pets are not allowed inside the venue.

Thames River Cruise

Drones, bicycles, roller skates, balloons, and selfie sticks are not permitted on the cruise.

Accessibility

Royal Observatory Greenwich

The experience is partially accessible for wheelchairs and prams/strollers.
Wheelchair access is available at the Meridian Line, Meridian Building ground floor, Astronomer’s Garden, and Camera Obscura.
Older, Grade I listed buildings, including Flamsteed House and the Great Equatorial Telescope, are not accessible for wheelchairs.
Guide dogs are welcome at the venue.

Thames River Cruise

The cruise is accessible for wheelchairs and prams/strollers.

Additional information

Thames River Cruise

The cruise typically takes 40 mins between piers, except for Westminster Pier to London Eye Pier, which takes 10 mins.
Facilities: restrooms and baby changing areas.

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Combos

Combo (Save 3%): Cutty Sark & Royal Observatory Greenwich Tickets

Cover Greenwich's landmark sailing ship and the home of Greenwich Mean Time in one efficient, self-guided visit.

What you get at Cutty Sark: Entry to the historic sailing ship with a multilingual downloadable audio tour, so you explore the decks and exhibits at your own pace without a group.
What you get at the Royal Observatory Greenwich: Standard entry to the Observatory and Prime Meridian with a multilingual downloadable audio guide, so you follow the key rooms and displays independently at your own pace.
Why this combo works: Ships like the Cutty Sark relied on the timekeeping breakthroughs made at the Royal Observatory, so visiting both in one Greenwich trip connects seafaring and science with one plan and a small saving.

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Combos

Combo (Save 3%): Royal Observatory Greenwich & Tower of London Tickets

What to bring

Royal Observatory Greenwich

Carry a valid photo ID, as proof of eligibility may be required at entry.
Download the free audio guide in advance (including the British Sign Language version) to avoid connectivity issues on site.

What's not allowed

Royal Observatory Greenwich

Oversized bags, suitcases, and large luggage items cannot be taken inside the Royal Observatory.
Only registered assistance animals are permitted; pets are not allowed.
Food and drinks are not allowed in exhibition spaces.

Tower of London

Photography is allowed in most areas, except the Jewel House and the Chapel of St. John.
Luggage, large bags, tripods, selfie sticks, and other photographic or recording equipment are not allowed in this experience.
Smoking, eating, and drinking are not allowed.

Accessibility

Royal Observatory Greenwich

Due to the historic nature of the Royal Observatory, some areas are not fully accessible. The Octagon Room and Great Equatorial Telescope can only be reached via staircases.
Accessible parking is available, but only with a valid car park ticket.
Visitors with disabilities may bring one companion free of charge, but this must be registered ahead of time.

Tower of London

This experience is partially wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
Complimentary adult carer/companion tickets can be obtained on the day of your visit upon presentation of proof of supporting documents (such as a Blue Badge, Freedom Pass, DLA letter or PIP letter) at the Ticket Office.
Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.

Additional information

Royal Observatory Greenwich

The standard entry ticket includes a self-guided visit.
The Royal Observatory is open from 10am-5pm daily with last admission to each venue at 4:15 pm.
Entry does not include shows at the Peter Harrison Planetarium.
Children under 4 years may enter free of charge but must be registered with a paying adult.

Tower of London

The Crown Jewels are a working collection and as a consequence, the display is subject to change without prior notice due to security reasons.
You can arrive within 30 mins of your ticket time (e.g., between 10am–10:29am). We are unable to guarantee entry before or after your time slot.
Your ticket is valid for one entry only. No re-entry is permitted.

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Tickets

Cutty Sark Entrance Tickets

Step aboard London’s legendary tea clipper, the Cutty Sark, and relive maritime history up close.

Everything you get: Entry to the Cutty Sark, a free downloadable audio tour (including British Sign Language guide), and free entry for a companion of a disabled visitor.
Why choose this: This ticket gives you the chance to walk the decks of one of the fastest sailing ships of its time, while an audio guide shares the stories of its voyages.

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Audio guide

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Combos

Combo (Save 5%): Royal Observatory Greenwich & London Eye Tickets

What to bring Royal Observatory Greenwich + London Eye

Carry a valid photo ID, as proof of eligibility may be required at entry.

Royal Observatory Greenwich

Download the free audio guide in advance (including the British Sign Language version) to avoid connectivity issues on site.

What’s not allowed Royal Observatory Greenwich + London Eye

Outside food and beverages, oversized bags, suitcases, and large luggage items are not permitted on this experience.
Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.

London Eye

Sharp metallic tools or objects, alcohol, drones, or rucksacks, smoke bombs, fireworks, glass bottles, illegal substances, rollerblades, scooters, e-scooters, skateboards, tripods, motorcycle helmets, hot foods are not allowed on this experience.

Accessibility Royal Observatory Greenwich + London Eye

Guests with accessible needs are entitled to a free carer ticket with valid documentation.
Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.

Royal Observatory Greenwich

Due to the historic nature of the Royal Observatory, some areas are not fully accessible. The Octagon Room and Great Equatorial Telescope can only be reached via staircases.
An accessible version of the guided tour may be arranged in advance upon request.
Accessible parking is available, but only with a valid car park ticket.

London Eye

This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
Ramps are available at the venue for easy access.
Braille guides are available for this experience.
Require special accommodations for your disability? Contact the venue and they'll do their best to assist you.

Additional information Royal Observatory Greenwich

The standard entry ticket includes a self-guided visit
The Royal Observatory is open from 10am-5pm daily with last admission to each venue at 4:15 pm.
The exclusive-access guided tour ticket to the Royal Observatory Greenwich is available only on Saturdays
Entry does not include shows at the Peter Harrison Planetarium.
Children under 4 years may enter free of charge but must be registered with a paying adult.

London Eye

Children under the age of 15 years must be accompanied by adults (18+).
Children under the age of 2 years can go for free but require a ticket to enter.
Expect a wait time of up to 30-60 mins before your experience begins.
Alcohol may be served subject to age and local laws. Valid ID required. Please drink responsibly.
Guests should be fully clothed and must wear shoes.
Facilities: restroom, cloakroom, and free Wi-Fi.

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Slide 1 of 4

Explore time & space at Royal Observatory Greenwich

Planning a trip to London? Be sure to add the Royal Observatory at Greenwich to your itinerary and explore the worlds of astronomy, navigation, and timekeeping. As the Home of the Prime Meridian, it’s the only place where you can stand with one foot in the eastern hemisphere and the other in the west. With views over Greenwich Park and the Thames, a visit to the Royal Observatory feels like stepping back in time, making it a must-visit in London.

Why visit the Royal Observatory at Greenwich?

1/4

Overview

Step into the home of the Prime Meridian in Greenwich and set off on a journey through time. Wander through Flamsteed House and the Octagon Room, explore galleries dedicated to longitude, and spot the Shepherd Gate Clock. Don’t miss the historic Time Ball dropping at 1pm each day!

Prime Meridian

Ever wanted to stand in two places at once? At the Prime Meridian you can! With one foot in the Eastern Hemisphere and the other in the Western, this line, officially adopted as the world’s reference point in 1884, is one of the most photographed spots in Greenwich.

Astronomical significance & World Heritage site

Founded in 1675, the Royal Observatory became the birthplace of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and the heart of astronomical research that changed the way the world navigated. Its legacy is so important that it now forms part of the Maritime Greenwich UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Clock collection

The Observatory is home to some of the most remarkable timepieces ever made. See John Harrison’s revolutionary marine timekeepers (H1–H4), early sea clocks, precision astronomical regulators, the Shepherd Gate Clock, and the famous Time Ball.

Things to know before booking your Royal Observatory Greenwich tickets

Overview: The Royal Observatory is compact but packed with history and exhibits, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours to explore fully. Make sure you time your visit to include trips to Flamsteed House, the Octagon Room, galleries, the Prime Meridian, and Cutty Sark for a holistic experience of the space.
Ticket options: You can choose from a range of ticket options at the Observatory including standard entry tickets, upgraded tickets with early access, or a full-day Royal Museums Greenwich Day Pass. For a more wholesome Greenwich experience, go in for combo options that grant you entry to the observatory along with a relaxing cruise on the river Thames.
Inclusions & upgrades: Standard tickets include entry to the Royal Observatory and a multilingual downloadable audio guide. Upgraded tickets include a few more benefits that include early access, guided tours, entry to Cutty Sark, and access to other Royal Museums Greenwich attractions.
Planetarium tickets: Tickets for the Planetarium shows (currently closed for renovation until 2028) are not included with standard tickets and must be purchased separately. The shows cover various topics, from the wonders of the night sky to special deep-space events, and are highly recommended for a more immersive experience.
Timing your visit: Plan your visit according to what you want to see at the Observatory. If you want to watch the iconic red Greenwich Time Ball drop atop Flamsteed House, be there around 12:30 pm. For a quieter experience without crowds, visit on weekday mornings just after opening (10 am).
Combo options: To make the most of your visit to Greenwich while saving time and money, combo tickets are a great choice. Combine entry to the Royal Observatory with experiences such as the Cutty Sark visit or a River Thames sightseeing cruise to cover two exciting attractions in one day.

Explore Royal Observatory Greenwich

Peter Harrison Planetarium

Explore the stars at the Peter Harrison Planetarium, led by expert astronomers from the Royal Observatory Greenwich. Experience stunning visualizations, real-life space photography, and live commentary, making each show immersive and educational, perfect for visitors curious about the universe, astronomy, and celestial phenomena.

More about Peter Harrison Planetarium

Prime Meridian Line

Stand on the historic Prime Meridian Line at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, with one foot in the eastern hemisphere and the other in the western, and tick off an iconic bucket-list moment. Learn what makes this line truly special with your multilingual audio guide.

Great Equatorial Telescope

Spot the distinctive onion-shaped dome of the Great Equatorial Telescope, installed in 1893 by the Grubb Telescope Company. One of the largest refracting telescopes, it was originally designed for astrophotography and remains a remarkable feature of the Royal Observatory Greenwich’s historic scientific heritage.

Shepherd Gate Clock

The Shepherd Gate Clock, installed at the Royal Observatory gates, was the first to publicly display Greenwich Mean Time. Featuring a 24-hour dial, it shows noon with hands pointing down instead of up, allowing visitors to experience timekeeping history in a unique and iconic way.

Read up on Shepherd Gate Clock

Octagon Room

Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, the Octagon Room is the oldest part of the Observatory. Its high ceilings and large windows provided uninterrupted night-sky views and space for advanced clocks, allowing astronomers to conduct precise observations and timekeeping in the heart of Greenwich.

Harrison Clocks

The Harrison Clocks—H1 to H4—were revolutionary marine timekeepers that allowed ships to calculate longitude at sea. Designed by John Harrison, these clocks are milestones in horology, showcasing ingenuity in timekeeping and maritime navigation, and remain a highlight of the Royal Observatory Greenwich.

Airy Transit Circle Telescope

Housed in the Transit Circle Room, the Airy Transit Circle Telescope, designed by George Biddell Airy, helped establish the world’s Prime Meridian. Its original mounting remains intact, marking a pivotal achievement in astronomy and global time measurement at the Royal Observatory Greenwich.

Flamsteed House

Flamsteed House was home to the Astronomer Royals, beginning with John Flamsteed under King Charles II. Visitors can explore where these astronomers lived and worked, witnessing the blend of daily life and groundbreaking scientific research that shaped the study of astronomy at the Royal Observatory.

Plan your visit to Royal Observatory Greenwich

Royal Observatory: 10am to 6pm daily, with last entry at 5pm.
Cutty Sark: 10am to 5pm daily, with last entry at 4:15pm.
Flamsteed House: 10am to 6pm daily, with last entry at 5pm.
Prime Meridian Line: 10am to 6pm daily, with last entry at 5pm.
Octagon Room: 10am to 6pm daily, with last entry at 5pm.
Peter Harrison Planetarium: Currently closed for a major renovation as part of the "First Light" project. It officially shut on September 8, 2025, and is scheduled to reopen in spring 2028.

Royal Observatory opening hours

Signpost with directions to Royal Observatory, National Maritime Museum, and Greenwich attractions.

Weekdays vs. Weekends

Weekdays: Monday to Thursday is ideal for a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds. Arriving just after opening at 10 am or late afternoon near closing at 5 pm allows for a more peaceful visit.
Weekends: These days tend to be busier and more crowded, particularly in summer. Expect larger crowds, especially during school holidays and summer months.

Best time of the day

Early morning: Arriving just after opening or around lunchtime helps avoid the midday surge of visitors. To see the iconic red Greenwich Time Ball drop, plan your visit around 12:30 pm.

Best time of the year

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer mild weather and smaller crowds, providing a calmer experience.

Peak vs. Low

Peak season: Summer (June to August) is the peak season, with long days and large tourist groups.
Low season: Winter (January to February) sees the fewest visitors, though the weather can be windy and cold.

Plan your visit to the Royal Observatory

Toilets and baby-change facilities

Accessible toilets and baby-change facilities are available on the right-hand side after exiting the Admissions area.
Additional toilets are located at the base of the external staircases in front of Flamsteed House.
For a full Changing Places facility, head down the hill to the National Maritime Museum.

Cafe

The Astronomy Café & Terrace is located in the Astronomy Centre.
It offers light meals, snacks, and beverages for a quick lunch or coffee before or after your visit.

Shop

The Royal Observatory Shop is next to the Meridian Courtyard, inside the Astronomy Centre.
It features clocks, watches, telescopes, educational toys, and unique souvenirs.

Other facilities

Free Wi-Fi: Available throughout the Observatory. Connect and use the Smartify app to access detailed information about exhibits.
Lost property: Found items or inquiries can be directed to visitor assistants at the Observatory.
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible routes are available for parts of the Observatory, including the Meridian Line, Astronomer’s Garden, and Camera Obscura.

Wheelchair-access: The Royal Observatory and all other Royal Museums Greenwich sites have accessible toilets, and all cafés and gift shops are wheelchair-accessible.
Wheelchair on loan: A few manual wheelchairs are available to borrow for free at the Information Desk. Booking these in advance by emailing bookings@rmg.co.uk or by calling +44 (0)20 8312 6608.
Partial accessibility: There is no step-free access to the upper floor of Flamsteed House, the Octagon Room, the Time and Society Gallery, the Great Equatorial Telescope, or the Camera Obscura.
BSL tours: British Sign Language-supported and subtitled film and touchscreens are available at selected points within the permanent galleries. The Royal Observatory audio guide is also available with British Sign Language.
Hearing aid loops: Induction loops for hearing aids are fitted at all information desks.

Food and beverages: Outside food and drinks are not allowed inside the exhibits.
Photography: Photography is permitted for personal use, but tripods, flash, and professional equipment are restricted.
Pets: Pets are not allowed inside, except for registered service animals.
Bags and personal items: Large bags, backpacks, and suitcases are prohibited inside the buildings.
Smoking: Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the Observatory and its buildings.
Audio and visual equipment: Audio devices must be used with headphones; loud equipment that disturbs others is not allowed.
Children: Children must be supervised at all times while inside the Observatory.

The Astronomy Café & Terrace | Find on maps

Located in the Astronomy Centre, this café offers light lunches, snacks, breakfast, brunch, and hot and cold drinks. It features an outdoor terrace for seating on days with good weather. Additionally, there is a dedicated event catering service available for larger functions and galas.

Facilities:

Opening hours: Open daily from 10am to 5pm
Accessibility: The café is wheelchair accessible and has disabled toilets. Assistance dogs are welcome.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors.

Visitor tips

Upgrade your tickets: Consider upgrading your Royal Observatory tickets or booking Planetarium shows separately. These shows are informative, beautifully presented, and highly recommended.
Time your visit: Plan to see the 1 pm red ball drop from the top of the Observatory, one of the earliest public methods of signalling time.
Plan a full day: Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Cutty Sark and the National Maritime Museum. A Royal Museum's Greenwich Day Pass provides access to all three.
Prime Meridian: If you’re visiting solely to see the Prime Meridian, you can find its continuation outside the Observatory. However, the museum’s exhibits and artifacts make the visit well worth your time.
Getting there: The Castle Hill route is steep, so climb slowly. The Avenue route is gentler but longer. To avoid hills, reach the Observatory via Blackheath.

Frequently asked questions about Royal Observatory Greenwich tickets

Most visitors spend around 1–2 hours exploring the exhibits, walking along the Prime Meridian Line, and enjoying the panoramic views from the hill.

Experience the best of Royal Observatory Greenwich

Royal Observatory Greenwich & Prime Meridian Entry Tickets

Royal Museums Greenwich Day Pass

Combo: Royal Observatory Greenwich Tickets + Thames River Cruise

Combo (Save 3%): Cutty Sark & Royal Observatory Greenwich Tickets

Combo (Save 3%): Royal Observatory Greenwich & Tower of London Tickets

Cutty Sark Entrance Tickets

Combo (Save 5%): Royal Observatory Greenwich & London Eye Tickets

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Explore time & space at Royal Observatory Greenwich