If you’ve ever wandered up breathlessly the hill in Greenwich park and gazed at the Royal Observatory – home of the Prime Meridian and the birthplace of Greenwich Mean Timeyou know it’s one of London’s true icons.
Now, this legendary site is about to enter a bold new era, thanks to a massive £77 million redevelopment that promises to transform the visitor experience while honouring 350 years of astronomical history.
So, what’s actually changing at the Royal Observatory?
For starters, the observatory is getting a brand-new entry pavilion and a beautifully landscaped garden walk, making the climb up the hill more inviting than ever.
Accessibility is a major focus: for the first time, all visitors will be able to reach the Great Equatorial Telescope and the Planetarium via new step-free routes and a dedicated lift tower – no more feeling left out if you can’t manage the steep paths.
Inside, the galleries are getting a full refresh, with interactive displays that bring the wonders of the universe to life. There’s also a new ‘Astronomers Court,’ which will be a lively hub for hands-on science demonstrations, shopping, and cafés – so you can grab a coffee and soak up some cosmic inspiration.
Celebrating the Royal Observatory’s 350th anniversary with a massive upgrade
The project, led by Jamie Fobert Architectsis timed to coincide with the observatory’s 350th anniversary and is set to kick off construction in September 2025aiming for a grand reopening in spring 2028. With £50.5 million already secured, the vision is well on its way to becoming a reality.
Of course, it’s not just about shiny new buildings. The redevelopment will also restore and conserve the site’s historic features, introduce sustainable infrastructure like air source heat pumps, and ensure that the Royal Observatory remains a beacon for stargazers and science lovers for generations to come.
