The Old Observatory where both longitude zero degree west and longitude zero degree east pass through.

Greenwich lies to the east of London. At Greenwich, there is the famous Old Royal Observatory dating back to the reign of Charles II for the purpuse of establishing Greenwich time. That is British standard time rechoned from the passage of sun over meridian at Greenwich. Also at this site is the equally famous and well known Cutty Sark, a hign speed clipper ship which is displayed near the ferry stop. From 1869, its first launching, to 1938, its last sailing, the Cutty Sark was employed in transporting important cargos for Great Britain. During those times, they say that England conquered the seven seas.
Greenwich is related to royalty. Henry VIII and his daughters, Mary and Elizabeth II, were born there.
I got on the ferry from the Tower of London to visit Greenwich. I really enjoyed a short trip going down the River Thames. While sailing along the river, many unique buildings pleased my eyes.

I saw Tower Bridge was open because a ship went through it while I was waiting for the ferry at the Tower of London.

left : Soon after getting off the ferry, you'll see the Cutty Sark displayed. I saw its inside after I had visited the Old Observatory. It cost three pounds fifty. The Cutty Sark is actually quite a large ship, so there are a lot of rooms. A long time ago, many sailers lived on the ship during its long journeys.
the middle : The Old Observatory in the middle of the park. Christopher Wren designed the Octagon Room. The admission fee was five pounds when I entered. I'm not sure, but I think that the ticket is valid for one year.
right : the scenery from the Old Observatory. on the right hand side, you'll see the Millennium Dome which was under construction during my visit.

（2003.10.19）

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Trip to England

I really love London!