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Royal Observatory £77m Transformation
London
Type:Other
Blackheath Avenue, Greenwich Park, Greenwich, London, SE10 8XJ
London
The Royal Observatory will temporarily close to visitors from 2 November 2026 as work begins on First Light, a major £77 million transformation project designed to improve accessibility, preserve historic buildings and create new galleries and visitor facilities.
Before the closure, visitors still have the opportunity to explore some of the Observatory's most famous attractions, including the world-renowned Prime Meridian line, the historic Flamsteed House and artist Luke Jerram's acclaimed Mirror Moon installation.
The Observatory will remain open until 2 November 2026, giving visitors the chance to experience one of the UK's most important scientific and heritage sites before construction work gets underway.
Guests can discover the history of astronomy, stand with one foot in the eastern hemisphere and one in the western hemisphere on the Prime Meridian, and explore the historic buildings that helped shape our understanding of time and navigation.
The First Light project will deliver significant improvements across the site, including enhanced accessibility, carefully restored historic spaces and new exhibitions designed to inspire future generations.
The Royal Observatory is expected to reopen in phases from summer 2027, with the wider transformation programme scheduled for completion in spring 2028.
Once complete, the redevelopment will create a more accessible, engaging and immersive visitor experience while safeguarding the Observatory's unique heritage for years to come.
Royal Observatory open until: 2 November 2026
Temporary closure begins: 2 November 2026
Phased reopening expected: Summer 2027
Project completion: Spring 2028
| Season (2 Nov 2026 - 31 Mar 2027) |
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