visit the Greenwich observatory

Looking over the Thames to seeing buildings in Docklands reminded me of when the shipyards were there. This is where life started.

At Greenwich it was out into the pool every morning at six o’clock. This was the regime for the kids at the Greenwich Hospital School. The water wasn’t heated in those days.

Great place. Spectacular views.

Just over the road is the Queen’s House. When you’re there you can see how it has miraculously evolved from being a coach house at the side of the road to now covering it. Inside you will find the Tulip Staircase. it’s really magic. Stand in the middle and look up through the eye of the stairwell. You can imagine the kind of thoughts Inigo Jones might have put into it at the time.

A green laser points due north in the direction of the dome. It’s a wispy fine thread, but so tantalising to let your thought glide along that narrow stretch of space.

Try and avoid the weekend rush and take some time to see the excellent Queen’s house.

Conrad Shawcross had some of his work there recently. Great exhibition.