Rising from the banks of the Thames to a hilltop observatory, Greenwich Park is the oldest of London's royal parks. From its high ground, a famous view opens over the river, the old naval buildings and the towers of the city beyond. The park was enclosed in the 15th century, on land that had long been a royal estate. It is the oldest of the parks once attached to royal palaces in the capital. On the hilltop stands the old Royal Observatory, founded in the 17th century to help sailors find their way at sea. It became the home of the world's prime meridian. A line marking zero longitude runs through the observatory, dividing the eastern and western halves of the globe. Visitors come to stand with a foot on either side. A red ball on the observatory drops each day at a set time, a signal once used by ships on the river to set their clocks. This old custom is still kept up. Below the hill stand grand buildings of the former royal naval college and a great maritime museum, set out in a sweeping classical design. The park frames this noble group. The park itself has wide lawns, avenues of old trees, a rose garden and a small deer park. Walkers, runners and families fill it on fine days. The view from the top of the hill, taking in the river bend and the distant skyscrapers, is among the most famous in London. It draws visitors at all hours. The park has hosted great events, including sporting contests during the city's Olympic Games. Its slopes make a natural setting for such occasions. Together with the buildings around it, the park forms part of a celebrated historic quarter recognised for its outstanding value. It is one of the great sights of the city. It lies on the south bank of the Thames, around the town of Greenwich in south-east London. Through the year the park draws walkers, families and visitors climbing the hill for its view and its place in the story of time itself. From the top, the contrast of old riverside buildings and distant towers sums up the sweep of the city's history.

Type: Outdoors

Address: London, United Kingdom, SE10 8QY