Open House London 2010 - What to See in Greenwich

Open House London 2010 is fast approaching. On September 18th

and 19th, an eclectic assortment of buildings across the city will

be opening their doors to the public and revealing what secrets lay within.

This will be the 18th consecutive year that this incredible

architectural showcase has taken place, and so popular has the idea proven

that a growing number of international versions are now springing up in cities

around the world. But what does Open House 2010 have in store for Greenwich?

The Old Royal Naval College is instantly recognisable to

residents and visitors of Greenwich alike. Designed by Christopher Wren in

1695, it has been the grand architectural centrepiece of the town ever since.

Between 10am and 5pm on both the Saturday and Sunday of the festival, you’ll be

able to walk around the Painted Hall, Chapel, Admiral’s House and King Charles Court. On the Sunday only, between 11am and 4.30pm, there’s the chance to have

a peek at the inside of King William Court, Queen Anne Court and Queen Mary

Court. This really is an unmissable opportunity to see the inner-life of this

spectacular landmark.

Another of Greenwich's architectural treasures is The Dreadnought Library. It originally served as the Dreadnought Seamen’s Hospital, but since

a refurbishment in 1999 has been the library and computer centre of the University

of Greenwich. Among its many notable features are the glass corridors offering

fantastic views and the courtyard roof. Tours are available between 11.30am and

4pm on the Sunday of the festival.

If you’ve ever wondered what the inside of Greenwich

Magistrates’ Court looks like, and don’t particularly want to commit a crime in

order to find out, then Open House presents the perfect opportunity. The court building will be

open for tours between 9.30am and 2pm on the Saturday of the festival, during

which you’ll be able to view the public waiting areas, courtrooms and cells.

Though the Royal Observatory is a firm favourite with

visitors, Open House is offering the chance to see a part of it usually closed

to the public. The Altazimuth Pavilion is a beautiful 19th Century

dome that features some striking terracotta mouldings. Even better, inside you’ll

find a unique collection of historic telescopes. You’ll be able to look around

it on the Saturday between 10am and 5pm, with tours also available at various

points in the afternoon.

This is just a selection of the many buildings in Greenwich

that you’ll be able to see during the festival. Many have strict limits on the

number of visitors that they can admit so it’s worth visiting the Open House

website to book for any tours that interest you, as well as to view full details

of all the buildings opening in Greenwich and across the city.

Which buildings are you most excited about visiting?