Open House at the Royal Observatory, Greenwich September 20, 2008

Uncover the secrets of the Royal Observatory, Greenwich on 20 September 2008 by participating in free historical and architectural guided tours and illustrated talks as part of Open House Weekend.

Guided tours of the north site
11.00, 12.00, 13.00, 14.00, 15.00 and 16.00. First come first served basis. No under 12s. Maximum 20 per tour.

The Royal Observatory, home of the Prime Meridian of the World, has been at the heart of nautical astronomy since the late seventeenth century, when Charles II commissioned Christopher Wren to design the first purpose-built scientific building in England for the Astronomers Royal. Take a tour of the original north site buildings including Flamsteed House and the Meridian Building. Tours begin at the entrance of Flamsteed House in the Meridian Line courtyard.

Architectural tours of the south site with Allies and Morrison
11.00, 12.00, 13.00, 14.00, 15.00 and 16.00. First come first served basis. No under 12s. Maximum 20 per tour.

In 2007, the restoration and upgrade of the Victorian South Building (now the Astronomy Centre) was completed. The Grade II listed Astronomy Centre today provides modern education facilities and galleries and includes a spectacular bronze cone containing the new Peter Harrison Planetarium. In June 2008, the Royal Observatory won a prestigious Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) award for the renovated South Building and Planetarium*. Take a tour of the refurbished south site with architects Allies and Morrison. Tours begin at the entrance of the Astronomy Centre, next to the Planetarium.

The Buildings of the Royal Observatory, Greenwich: 1675 – 2008
11.30, 12.30, 14.30 and 15.30. Free ticketed event (tickets to be collected on the day). Maximum 30 per session.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to enjoy illustrated talks exploring how the buildings at the Royal Observatory have evolved over the centuries to meet the changing needs of their users. These fascinating talks are brought to life with historical slides. Talks take place in the Astronomy Centre.

Visitors interested in taking a tour or obtaining a free ticket for the talks should ask a Gallery Assistant at the main entrance of the Royal Observatory, Greenwich on the day.

For further information visit nmm.ac.uk or call 020 8858 4422.

Events may be subject to change on the day.

* RIBA Awards are given for buildings that have high architectural standards and make a substantial contribution to the local environment.

Official Website: http://www.nmm.ac.uk/events