Greenwich Park
About Greenwich Park
The oldest enclosed Royal Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to the Royal Observatory, the Prime Meridian line and sweeping views over the Thames and Canary Wharf.
History & Heritage
Greenwich Park is the oldest of London's enclosed Royal Parks, its origins dating to 1433 when Humphrey, Duke of Gloucester, enclosed the land. It later formed the grounds of the Palace of Placentia, birthplace of King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I. In the 17th century the landscape was partly laid out in a formal style influenced by the French designer André Le Nôtre.
In 1675 King Charles II founded the Royal Observatory on the hill at the heart of the park, appointing the first Astronomer Royal. It became the home of Greenwich Mean Time and the Prime Meridian of the World in 1884, making the park the point from which global time and longitude are measured. The wider area was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.
What to Expect
Expect a steep central hill crowned by the Royal Observatory, offering one of London's most photographed views over the Old Royal Naval College, the Thames and the towers of Canary Wharf. Visitors can straddle the Prime Meridian line, explore the flower and rose gardens, spot deer in the enclosure, and enjoy the park's café. It is an easy combination with the National Maritime Museum and the Cutty Sark nearby.
Known For
Features & Facilities
- Royal Observatory
- Rose garden
- Deer enclosure
- Boating pond
- Cafés
- Ancient Roman remains
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can you stand on the Prime Meridian in Greenwich Park?
- Yes, the Prime Meridian line runs through the Royal Observatory at the top of Greenwich Park. Standing on it lets you place one foot in the eastern and one in the western hemisphere, though access to the courtyard marker requires an Observatory ticket.
- Is Greenwich Park free to enter?
- Yes, Greenwich Park itself is free to enter. The Royal Observatory and Astronomy Centre charge separate admission.
- What is the best view in Greenwich Park?
- The view from the hill beside the Royal Observatory, looking north over the Old Royal Naval College towards Canary Wharf and the City, is considered one of the finest in London.
More London Parks
Hyde Park
One of London's largest and most famous Royal Parks, home to the Serpentine lake, Speakers' Corner and 350 acres of open parkland in the heart of the city.
Regent's Park
An elegant Royal Park designed by John Nash, famous for Queen Mary's Gardens, the Open Air Theatre, London Zoo and beautifully manicured formal gardens.
Richmond Park
London's largest Royal Park and a National Nature Reserve, famous for its free-roaming red and fallow deer, ancient trees and sweeping views towards St Paul's.