The Royal Observatory, Greenwich

The Royal Observatory in Greenwich is home to the UK's largest refracting telescope and plays host to London’s only planetarium.

You can visit the website at: http://www.nmm.ac.uk/places/royal-observatory/

Greenwich Planetarium

The planetarium at Greenwich has been named one of the best in the country. It has Europe's first digital laser planetarium projector. You can find out more about the planetarium and details on which shows are currently running online via their website.

One of the current shows is called "Secret lives of the stars" and is narrated by Sir Patrick Stewart. The show covers the life-cycle of a star.

Tickets can be booked online through the Greenwich Observatory website. Members can gain free entry.

28-Inch Telescope

The Royal Observatory has the UK's largest refracting telescope. It is 28 inches wide and is now used for educational purposes. In the winter the observatory has observing sessions. It is best to book in advance for these as spaces fill up quickly.

There is lots of interesting information and facts about this telescope on the Royal Observatory Greenwich website.

The Meridian Line

While you are at the Royal Observatory you can visit the meridian line. This marks 0 degrees longitude.