Explore the Royal Observatory Greenwich

A Historic Journey from NX London Hostel

Perched atop Greenwich Park with sweeping views of London and the River Thames, the Royal Observatory Greenwich is a must-visit for NX London Hostel guests seeking a blend of science, history, and scenic beauty.

A Legacy of Time and Navigation

Founded in 1675 by King Charles II, the Royal Observatory was created to solve one of the greatest challenges of its time: determining longitude at sea. It became the home of the Astronomer Royal, starting with John Flamsteed, and quickly evolved into the world’s leading center for astronomical research. The Observatory established the Prime Meridian—the line that divides the Eastern and Western Hemispheres—and gave birth to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), setting the global standard for timekeeping.

Today, the site is a museum and science attraction that celebrates 350 years of innovation, exploration, and public engagement with astronomy.

Highlights of the Observatory

• Stand on the Prime Meridian Line: Snap a photo with one foot in each hemisphere.
• Flamsteed House: Explore the historic residence of the Astronomer Royal and its elegant Octagon Room.
• Great Equatorial Telescope: Marvel at one of the largest refracting telescopes in the UK.
• Time Ball Drop: Witness the daily drop at 1 PM—a tradition dating back to 1833.
• Planetarium Shows: Enjoy immersive journeys through space in the Peter Harrison Planetarium.

Where to Eat & Drink Nearby

After your cosmic adventure, unwind at these top-rated local spots:

• Bill’s Greenwich Restaurant – Contemporary European dining with breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus.
• The Prince of Greenwich Pub – Victorian charm, cabaret nights, and hearty Italian fare.
• The Gipsy Moth – Nautical-themed pub with a shaded garden and relaxed atmosphere.
• Trafalgar Tavern – Riverside Victorian tavern with Thames views and naval heritage.
• Greenwich Tavern – Elegant pub with British-European cuisine and cocktails.
• Kings Arms – Classic pub with affordable bites and a cozy vibe.
• Cutty Sark – Georgian riverside pub with panoramic views and refined dining.
• The Sail Loft, Greenwich – Casual spot for meat, fish, and riverfront relaxation.

How to Get There from NX London Hostel

Starting from NX London Hostel (King’s Cross area):

1. Walk to King’s Cross St. Pancras Station (5 minutes).
2. Take the Northern Line southbound to London Bridge Station.
3. Transfer to National Rail and take a Southeastern train to Greenwich Station.
4. From Greenwich Station, it’s a 20-minute walk uphill through Greenwich Park to the Observatory.

Total travel time: Approximately 50–60 minutes.

Optional scenic route: Take the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers from London Bridge City Pier to Greenwich Pier, then enjoy a 15-minute walk through the park.

Whether you’re fascinated by the stars or simply want to stand on the line that changed the world, the Royal Observatory Greenwich offers a timeless experience.