Beauchamp Tower London
Beauchamp Tower London is one of the many hidden gems beyond the walls of the fortress of Tower of London. The Tower of London is an iconic landmark and significant in English history, which famously carried the tag ‘a fortress, a palace and a prison’ The Tower occupies an area of 18 acres along the Thames River in London and attracts almost 2.86 million visitors each year. The Beauchamp Tower played a key role in the history of the Tower of London as residence to high-ranking prisoners. This article takes you on a brief journey of its historical significance and the beautiful graffiti at Beauchamp Tower London which were left by these prisoners that you may find in this historical gem if you were to visit Beauchamp today.
Beauchamp Tower is easily missed as visitors seem focused on the White Tower and the Jewel Tower. Moreover, if you are limited to time, you may give Beauchamp a miss but I suggest that Beauchamp is worth a visit and deserving of a place on your list.
When planning your visit to the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, you may be asking: How long to visit the Royal Observatory London? I’d suggest, ideally, that you set aside half a day, anything between 3.5-4 hours to fully experience its rich offerings, which includes a blend of astronomical heritage and maritime history.
Situated at SE10 8XJ on Greenwich Hill, within the heart of Greenwich Park, this iconic institution was commissioned by King Charles II in 1675. Now nearly 350 years old, it is not only a pivotal site for timekeeping and navigation but also forms a part of the Royal Museums Greenwich. This collective heritage includes the National Maritime Museum, the Queen’s House, and the historic ship Cutty Sark.
The Royal Observatory stands as one of London’s most famous landmarks, epitomizing scientific achievement and famously known as the location of the Prime Meridian Line. The observatory has played a crucial role in the advancement of navigation and astronomy. It is here that Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) was defined, influencing how the world measures time and geographical positioning to this day.
Time, the most precious commodity in life, is the only commodity we truly own, as noted by Baltasar Gracián who once said, “All that really belongs to us is time; even he who has nothing else has that.” A visit to the Royal Observatory brings these words to life and takes me back to my early days as a mum, teaching my little ones about where time measurement started.
Beyond personal memories, the Royal Observatory in Greenwich Park is a welcoming attraction for both the young and the old any day of the week. During your visit, you are treated to a remarkable journey through the history of astronomy and navigation, offering numerous activities that capture your attention from the moment you arrive. At the gates, you’ll find the renowned Shepherd Clock, and once inside, there are further highlights that you simply must explore.
As you explore the intersections of time and space at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll discover why the Royal Observatory is worth the time, no matter how long it takes to visit as it is not just a must-visit for history enthusiasts but also for anyone interested in the marvels of our universe.
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The Royal Observatory Admission Ticket
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Getting to the Royal Observatory Greenwich London
Directions to Greenwich Park
The Royal Observatory is located within the beautiful Greenwich Park, one of London’s eight Royal Parks. To reach Greenwich Park and the Royal Observatory, you can enter through any of the park’s gates, with the Blackheath Gate on Charlton Way being a popular choice due to its proximity to the observatory. For those using a GPS, the postcode for your destination is SE10 8XJ.
Tips on Public Transport and Parking Options
Public Transport: Greenwich is well-serviced by public transport. You can take the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to Cutty Sark station, which is a scenic 15-minute walk from the park. Alternatively, Greenwich and Maze Hill rail stations are both within walking distance of the park, offering connections to central London and surrounding areas.
Several bus routes also stop near Greenwich Park, including numbers 53, 54, 202, and 380.
Parking: Parking in Greenwich can be challenging, especially on weekends. There are limited paid parking spaces available within Greenwich Park, accessible via Blackheath Gate. Nearby, you can also find pay-and-display options along Greenwich High Road.
For a hassle-free visit, consider arriving early or using public transport, which is both convenient and eco-friendly.
PRO TIP: I’d suggest taking the DLR to Cutty Sark Station as it is a quick 20-minute journey from central London. The scenic walk to the Royal Observatory takes you through part of Greenwich Village, and other attractions in Greenwich which you may want to explore also.
How Long to Visit at the Royal Observatory Greenwich?: Key Attractions + Recommended Time for Each
The Prime Meridian Line: What is the Prime Meridian Line?
The Prime Meridian Line at the Royal Observatory Greenwich is the globally recognized line of longitude from which all other lines of longitude are measured and time zones are calculated. This line, marked by a striking stainless steel strip, represents the world’s zero-degree longitude. Established in 1851 by Sir George Airy, the Greenwich Meridian was chosen as the official Prime Meridian of the world in 1884, making Greenwich the universal time standard known as Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
How long to visit the Prime Meridian area at Royal Observatory London?: Estimated duration: 15-20 minutes
TIP: Experience straddling both the eastern and western hemispheres simultaneously. This moment, captured with a photo, is not just a fun opportunity but a profound reminder of how Greenwich shapes the way the world views time and space.
The Shepherd Clock: The historical significance of the Shepherd Clock
The Shepherd Gate Clock, mounted on the wall outside the Observatory gate, is one of the world’s first public displays of Greenwich Mean Time. Installed in 1852 and linked directly to the Royal Observatory’s time ball, the clock was critical in providing accurate time to sailors on the Thames and navigators far and wide. This innovation by Charles Shepherd revolutionized how time was synchronized and disseminated, playing a crucial role in managing time across the UK’s vast railway network and influencing global timekeeping practices. Be camera ready, as this is one of the most Instagrammable spots at the Royal Observatory Greenwich.
How long to visit the Shepherd Clock area and Photos?: Estimated duration: 10-15 minutes
PRO TIP: If you are visiting the Royal Observatory during peak tourist season, be sure to allocate additional time if you want a photo next to the Shepherd Clock — there’s usually a queue as almost everyone wants to take a photo next to this iconic timepiece.
Flamsteed House at the Royal Observatory
Flamsteed House at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich holds a pivotal place in the history of navigation and astronomy. Originally commissioned by King Charles II in the 1670s, the observatory was established to enhance maritime navigation for seamen and traders. Recognizing the need for a sophisticated navigation system, King Charles enlisted Sir Christopher Wren, a distinguished architect, to design what is now known as Flamsteed House.
Flamsteed House is not only a functional scientific facility but also an architectural marvel. Its design reflects the early scientific spirit of the Age of Enlightenment, marrying both utility and aesthetic appeal. Within this premier historical and educational site, Flamsteed House is home to Time and Longitude Galleries as well as an educational hub, inspiring deep engagement with astronomy, providing insight into the scientific challenges and solutions that have profoundly shaped our understanding of the world.
Time and Longitude Galleries at Flamsteed House, Royal Observatory, London
Within Flamsteed House, you can explore the Time and Longitude Galleries. These galleries are notable for housing the revolutionary “sea clocks” created by John Harrison, including his celebrated H4 chronometer. Harrison’s innovations were vital in solving the problem of determining longitude at sea, a major challenge of the 18th century that engaged the minds of numerous mathematicians and clockmakers.
In addition to Harrison’s chronometers, the galleries also display modern navigational tools, such as the GPS receiver used by Sir Robin Knox-Johnston during his record-breaking solo circumnavigation of the globe in 1994.
These galleries provide a fascinating insight into the historical efforts and scientific advancements that underpinned maritime exploration.
How long to visit the Time and Longitude Galleries and Flamsteed House, Royal Observatory, London?: Estimated duration: 45 minutes to an hour.
Witness the Time Ball at Royal Observatory, Greenwich, London
Another must-see at Flamsteed House is the operation of the bright red Time Ball, a historic feature that has been reliably signaling the time since 1833. Positioned atop Flamsteed House, this iconic ball originally served a vital role in distributing time to ships on the Thames River and to many Londoners.
Each day, the time ball follows a precise routine: at 12:55, it rises halfway up its mast; at 12:58, it ascends fully to the top; and at precisely 13:00, it dramatically drops. This visible signal allowed ship captains to accurately set their chronometers before setting sail, ensuring precise timekeeping critical for navigation. Witnessing this daily event offers a tangible link to the maritime history that shaped Greenwich and its global importance.
How long to visit the Time Ball drop at Royal Observatory, London?: Estimated duration: 15 minutes.
PRO TIP: Try and arrive a little earlier than 12:55 PM to secure a spot for a good view of the Time Ball drop, where you could also capture the perfect photo or video.
The Peter Harrison Planetarium
Situated next to the Royal Observatory, the Peter Harrison Planetarium offers a captivating gateway to the stars, which requires a stand-alone experience ticket, distinct from the admission ticket to the Royal Observatory. This modern marvel uses cutting-edge technology to bring the universe to life through a variety of immersive shows that cater to both avid astronomers and curious novices.
This unique experience takes you on a visual journey across the cosmos, exploring distant galaxies, witnessing the birth of stars, and delving into the mysteries of black holes.
Equipped with one of the most advanced digital laser projectors, the planetarium provides a stunningly crisp and vibrant visual experience that fills the dome with the wonders of the universe. The state-of-the-art sound system enhances the immersive experience, wrapping audiences in a cosmic symphony of sights and sounds.
How long to visit the Peter Harrison Planetarium experience at Royal Observatory, London?: Estimated duration: 30-40 minutes.
The View from the Royal Observatory Greenwich
One of the most breathtaking aspects of a visit to the Royal Observatory Greenwich is “The View.”
Perched atop Greenwich Hill, the Observatory offers a panoramic vista across London. From this vantage point, or nearby point from General James Wolfe’s statue, you can gaze out over the sprawling cityscape that stretches towards the horizon, encompassing iconic landmarks such as the Thames River, the modern skyscrapers of Canary Wharf, and the historical silhouette of the maritime Greenwich.
This picturesque view is not only a feast for the eyes but also a perfect backdrop for memorable photographs, especially at sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle against the twilight sky. Additionally, “The View” provides a unique geographical context to Greenwich’s maritime history, highlighting its strategic location overlooking the river that has been so vital to London’s development.
How long should you visit the panoramic experience at Royal Observatory, London?: Estimated duration: 15 minutes or as long as you like.
Educational Activities at The Royal Observatory Greenwich, London
The Royal Observatory is committed to making astronomy accessible and engaging for all ages. It offers a wide range of educational programs and interactive exhibits that encourage hands-on learning and discovery. These include family-friendly workshops, telescope viewings, and engaging talks that bring the wonders of the universe closer to earth.
For younger visitors, the Observatory provides specially designed activities that spark curiosity and inspire a love of science. These include interactive puzzles, games, and storytelling sessions that make learning about space fun and memorable.
Add to Your Visit to the Royal Observatory, Greenwich, London
Greenwich Park and Surrounding Attractions: Your visit to the Royal Observatory also positions you perfectly to explore other nearby attractions. The iconic Cutty Sark, the world’s sole surviving tea clipper, the World’s largest National Maritime Museum (free entry) and the elegant Queen’s House (free entry), renowned for its fine architecture and art collections, are all within walking distance.
Combining Your Visit with a Walk Through Greenwich Park: Greenwich Park, one of London’s eight Royal Parks, offers more than just a beautiful setting. It is a place where history, nature, and leisure converge. After visiting the Observatory, take a leisurely stroll through the park to enjoy its tranquil landscapes, the rose garden, and stunning views of the London skyline. This is the perfect way to relax, have a picnic, and reflect on the rich history you’ve just encountered.
Estimated Duration: 1-2 hours
READ the Complete Guide to Off-Beat, Free, and Ticketed Things to do in Greenwich, London.
Planning Your Visit
Best Times to Visit and How to Avoid the Crowds
Weekdays and Early Mornings: The Royal Observatory Greenwich is a popular attraction throughout the year. To make the most of your visit, consider coming on weekdays or during the morning hours right after opening. The quieter times typically offer a more intimate viewing of the exhibits and a better interaction with the features without the pressure of large crowds.
Spring and autumn months generally see fewer visitors compared to the bustling summer season.
The Royal Observatory Tickets and Hours
The observatory is typically open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but hours may vary during holiday periods or for special events.
Entry to the Royal Observatory grants access to the Meridian Courtyard, the historic Flamsteed House, and the Time and Longitude galleries. Discounts are available for children, students, and retirees. Family tickets offer additional savings for group visits.
To make the most of your visit, consider purchasing the Royal Museums Greenwich Day Pass. This pass not only simplifies your experience but also offers comprehensive access to Cutty Sark, enhancing your exploration of Greenwich’s rich maritime heritage. The Day Pass offers excellent value, allowing you to save more compared to purchasing stand-alone tickets.
Facilities and Accessibility
Facilities include accessible restrooms, baby changing facilities, and a café offering light refreshments with a stunning view of Greenwich and the Thames.
The venue is wheelchair accessible, and assistance dogs are welcome. Loaner wheelchairs are available at the ticket desk on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact their Official website for specific accessibility queries.
FAQs
The Royal Observatory is the home of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and the Prime Meridian Line, where the eastern and western hemispheres meet.
It houses the historic Shepherd Clock and the Peter Harrison Planetarium, which offers advanced astronomical education through state-of-the-art visual technology.
It is called the Royal Observatory because it was commissioned by King Charles II in 1675, explicitly for the improvement of naval navigation and originally led by the first Astronomer Royal, John Flamsteed.
The Royal Observatory was founded in 1675, making it over 340 years old.
Yes, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure entry and a smoother visit experience.
The Royal Observatory at Greenwich was founded in 1675 by King Charles II.
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in sum…
A visit to the Royal Observatory is not just a journey through the realms of time and space but also a voyage through history and innovation. From standing on the Prime Meridian Line to exploring the universe in the Peter Harrison Planetarium, the observatory offers a unique blend of education and inspiration.
To make the most of your experience, visit during off-peak season and purchase the money-saving Day Pass, which enhances both convenience and value. Dedicate a good part of a day, or at least half a day to fully immerse yourself in this fascinating site, where the past connects with the present and offers insights into how the science of yesterday shapes our today and tomorrow.
Happy and Safe Travels Always, Wherever Travel Takes You, xx
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I discovered Beauchamp Tower on my visit as I retraced my footsteps in London. I have been to Tower of London many times before but had never visited this tower. I learnt so much of historic England from my visit here which I share with you here.
Read about the Tower of London – the Best Guide before your next visit.
Beauchamp Tower London
Beauchamp, pronounced as “beecham” is one of the twenty-one towers at the Tower of London and forms part of the inner defensive wall of Tower of London. It was built between 1275 and 1281 towards the end of the first leg of modernisation of the Tower, under the reign of King Edward I.
Built mostly of brick, but with stone externally, the tower takes its name from its first prisoner, Thomas Beauchamp, 12th Earl of Warwick. Thomas Beauchamp was imprisoned here in 1397 by Richard II.
The tower’s close proximity to the Lieutenant’s lodgings (now, the Queen’s House) made Beauchamp Tower a significant and a perfect place throughout history to accommodate high-ranking important prisoners.
There are other towers within the walls of the Tower of London which also became home to very important high status prisoners. Read about the prisoners of the Bloody Tower at the Tower of London here and the Jewel Tower, home to the Magnificent Crown Jewels.
Prisoners of the Beauchamp Tower London
Amongst the important prisoners at Beauchamp were John Dudley, Duke of Northumberland and his four sons. One of the sons was Guildford Dudley, the husband to Lady Jane Grey. Here’s a brief look at the Dudleys and Lady Jane Grey.
About the Dudleys
John Dudley, Duke of Northumberland was imprisoned at the Beauchamp Tower along with his four sons because he wanted his daughter-in-law, Lady Jane Grey to be Queen of England.
John Dudley and his sons were condemned as traitors in 1553. He was executed for treason at Tower Hill on August 22, 1553. Guilford Dudley, husband to Lady Jane was executed in February 1554. Following his execution, the three brothers were pardoned and released.
About Lady Jane Grey
Archives: Historic Royal Palaces
Lady Jane Grey was born in 1837 in Leicester, England. She was the great-grand-daughter of King Henry VII. Her life began with great promise and high expectations but ended tragically, due in part to the political and religious upheavel that existed during this time.
Lady Jane inherited the throne from Edward VI and was Queen of England for just nine days. She was deposed by Catholic Mary I, on July 19, 1553 and was imprisoned in the Queen’s House.
On the morning of 12 February, 1554, from her window, Lady Jane watched her young husband, Guildford Dudley, leave Beauchamp Tower for his execution at Tower Hill, and his headless body return for burial at the Tower Chapel of St Peter ad Vincula.
Later, on the very same day, Lady Jane was executed at Tower Green. She was seventeen years old.
About Guildford Dudley
Guildford Dudley, born in 1535 was an English nobleman who married Lady Jane Grey in an elaborate celebration about six weeks before the death of King Edward VI. Guildford and Jane spent their brief rule together at the Tower of London until they were condemned to death for high treason, thereafter in separate quarters.
On the morning of their execution, Guildford requested to see Lady Jane one last time. Jane refused, saying:
“would only … increase their misery and pain, it was better to put it off … as they would meet shortly elsewhere, and live bound by indissoluble ties.”
Guildford Dudley was executed at Tower Hill on the morning of February 12, 1554.
Other prisoners at Beauchamp Tower London
Other notable prisoner at Beauchamp Tower was Lady Jane Rochford, lady-in-waiting to Queen Catherine Howard, the fifth wife of King Henry VIII. Lady Rochford’s confession was instrumental in the tragic death of Catherine Howard. Her interrogation drove her to be unpredictable and she was executed on the same day as Queen Catherine on February 13, 1542.
As the tower was used throughout English history as a prison, there were other prisoners as well such as William Tyrrel and Thomas Peverel. Most recently, it accommodated several German spies during the World Wars.
You may wish to know more about the German spies and you can access information here. The last person to be executed at the Tower was Josef Jakobs, also a German spy at the end of WWII.
Graffiti in the Beauchamp Tower
What makes Beauchamp Tower London famous these days is the discovery of graffiti beneath the many layers of history on its walls. These graffiti on the wall were left by prisoners.
The inscriptions were made during the 16th and 17th century when the religious and political turmoil was at a height and the prison was home to many high-ranking and important prisoners such as the Dudleys, William Tyrrel and Thomas Peverel. Some of these inscriptions are bold reflecting painstaking carving while others are thin and somewhat spidery. They are a few that seem to cluster in specific locations of the Tower.
All images © timelesstravelsteps | by Georgina_Daniel
These sombre inscriptions represents thoughts of the prisoners and a powerful need to leave some form of record of their existence. A record, so they are not lost forever. It is an assertion of their beliefs and identity but above all, a strong will of defiance not to be cowed by political and religious tyranny. Some prisoners were held in gloomy cells, while others could move freely within the Tower grounds. Their treatment and fate depended on their social status and their crime.
*Lady Jane Grey was given access to the garden in December 1553.
Timeless Travel Steps says: When I visited, there were a number of people here so I could not take a closer look at the graffiti. I am intrigued by these inscriptions and am motivated to discover more on this part of history at the Tower of London.
One thing to bear in mind when visiting here is the narrow entrance and the narrow spiral stairway – there is only one of these, so visitors going up as well as those exiting the exhibition use it. If you are at the bottom of the stairs, waiting for the moment to get up – don’t! Don’t wait because you shall be waiting for a long time (like I did!) and others behind you will get ahead of you regardless of your politeness!
Entry to the permanent exhibition in the Beauchamp Tower is included in the entry ticket to the Tower of London. It is reasonably priced at £25.00 and is valid for one day – take a look here.
Learn more about Beauchamp Tower from this book: In Inscriptions and Devices, in the Beauchamp Tower, Tower of London
UK Readers
Published by the British Library, the book contains a short historical sketch of the building, and the prisoners formerly confined therein: collected from State papers, records, and other authentic sources: by W. R. Dick.
I sincerely hope that you have enjoyed reading this article and have found it valuable towards planning your visit to Beauchamp Tower. Do share your thoughts in comments below.
The Tower of London is vast and offers a thousand years of history within its walls. If you are in a rush, you may not experience all of what Tower of London has to offer. It is highly recommended that you spend at least four to five hours (subject to the time of day and the season you choose to visit) when you visit. Have a break in between and enjoy the hospitality at the cafe.
Learn more about the Tower of London by taking these virtual tours > Inside the Tower of London by the Tower of London | Historic Royal Palaces.
You may also enjoy reading other articles on London and here are a few that you may like:
What makes St Paul’s Cathedral special
What is next to St Paul’s Cathedral from medieval times
Queen Victoria | An intimate look at her childhood and the Woman behind the Crown.
London Eye | 18 important facts you would love to know about this landmark in London
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Hi Samantha, indeed, the Yeoman Warders live within the Tower of London and I am so glad you had the opportunity to visit and experience the hospitality with your friends. Thank you so much for stopping by – there are a number of articles on the Tower of London which you may also enjoy.
It is also a home. My late friend (and Yeoman Warder) and his wife lived here for many years. I am not sure who lives there now.
It was surprisingly cosy when I visited and standing on the top of the tower with a glass of champagne in my hand at one of their gatherings is one of my fondest memories.
Thank you so much Ade. I love history and the Tudor period was quite an era! Reading what happened did give me goosebumps. I hope to share more of our history in the coming weeks.
It is always good to read these blogs that so often bring something beyond the obvious to the readers. Giving details of how Beauchamp Tower is pronounced is useful as I was thinking never heard of it until you have details.
The Towers here always give me the heebygeebies if that makes sense the macabre history, not least because of much of the period you refer to. I studied the Reformation and parts of history as part of University course and it brought it home even more. It is however an intrinsic part of our history and you do, as always a great job bringing it to life.