Tanya Lake

Visiting the Royal Observatory in Greenwich was a highlight of my blog exploration. The journey begins with a scenic walk through Greenwich Park, culminating in a steep climb that rewards you with a spectacular view of the Observatory peeking through the trees. Turning around, you're greeted by breathtaking views of London's skyline and its famous landmarks.

At the Observatory's entrance, the magnificent Shepherd Gate Clock, symbolising Greenwich Mean Time, welcomes visitors. The Meridian Courtyard offers a unique experience of standing on the Prime Meridian Line, a geographical marker dividing the eastern and western hemispheres.

The tour includes Flamsteed House, a masterpiece by Sir Christopher Wren, which served as the residence and workplace of the Astronomers Royal. The exhibitions delve into the intricacies of time and longitude, enhancing the educational aspect of the visit.

The Octagon Room, the Observatory's oldest section commissioned by King Charles II, captivated me with its historical significance and unique architecture designed for celestial observations.

The Observatory is home to an array of remarkable astronomical instruments, such as the Great Equatorial Telescope under its distinctive onion dome and William Herschel’s Telescope in the Astronomers Garden. These instruments, including John Harrison's marine timepieces essential for sea navigation, are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing.

While understanding the technicalities of these instruments might be challenging, the Observatory offers talks to enhance comprehension and appreciation.

Overall, the visit to the Royal Observatory is not only educational but also a must-see for anyone visiting Greenwich. The nearby gift shop and dining options add to the overall experience.

Pear Tree is a lovely cafe located next to the Victorian bandstand on Clapham Common. We visited at the weekend for breakfast/brunch. We shared the scrambled egg on toast with a sprinkling of chives, sweet potato fries and the buttermilk pancakes. Everything tasted amazing, great ingredients. It was busy with families and groups of friends hanging out but the service was quick. It's an excellent cafe when the weather is sunny because they have many picnic style benches outside. Toilets are nearby.

It’s not the most polished or organised of museums, but therein lies its charm. There's a gift shop, a narrow boat inside the museum, an ice well and information about the ice cream magnate Carlo Gatti. If you’re in the area, take a quick tour, and you might learn something new! It's a short walk from the Kings Cross regenerated

Excellent brunch place with delicious dishes. Choose from egg dishes, grilled cheese, classic sandwiches, buttermilk pancakes and much more. Dog friendly. Cute urban outside space. Buzzy and friendly service.

If you love reading physical books and appreciate small, knowledgeable book store, you'll love Review.