Led by one of our expert guides, our private out-of-hours tours give you the opportunity to have a world-class attraction all to yourself.

Whether you're looking to explore the home of Greenwich Meantime, immerse yourself in a unique art gallery, discover the largest collection of maritime artefacts in the world, or experience first-hand what life was like onboard the fastest ship of its time, do so without the crowds with our out-of-hours private tours. 

Every private tour features:

  • Exclusive access: this is your chance to take a selfie on an empty Meridian Line, or enjoy stepping into historic areas that aren't always open to the public
  • A friendly, knowledgeable guide: discover the hidden histories of these remarkable places. With a private tour, you can ask all your burning questions, free from other interruptions
  • Free entry for the rest of the day during normal opening hours – perfect if you need more time to explore once your private tour is over

Learn more about each site and book your tour below.

Private out-of-hours tour options

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Drone view of the historic Royal Observatory buildings during the day. Trees surround a central group of brick buildings, with the distinctive 'Onion Dome' of the Great Equatorial Telescope in the centre

Royal Observatory Greenwich

Founded in 1675, the Royal Observatory is Britain's oldest purpose-built scientific institution. 

It is famous around the world as the birthplace of modern astronomy and the home of the Prime Meridian. Our guided tours give you close-up access to the unmissable objects in our collection such as the ground-breaking Harrison Clock collection and one of the largest telescopes in the world.  

Tours run: Wednesday to Friday

Cost: £700 for up to 10 guests (£70 per person for each additional guest) 

Timings: 9-10am; 5-6pm

Book now

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Loggia

Queen's House

This pioneering work of 17th-century architecture has a long history as a royal residence and retreat. Known as a ‘House of Delights’ for kings, queens and court favourites, the Queen’s House was also well known as a thriving studio for artists and craftsmen. 

Now one of London’s most celebrated art galleries, Queen's House is home to more than 450 works of art. With the help of an expert guide, enjoy a visit to Britain's oldest classical building all to yourself and dive into the fascinating stories behind some of the world's most famous artworks including Elizabeth I's Armada Portrait and the stunning Solebay Tapestry.  

Tours run: Wednesday to Friday

Cost: £500 for up to 10 guests (£50 per person for each additional guest) 

Timings: 9-10am; 5-6pm

Book now

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Image of 6 tudor and stuart ship models hanging inside a large glass case, on the side and behind you can see a number of paintings and portraits on the walls

National Maritime Museum

The National Maritime Museum is the largest museum of its kind in the world. Our galleries will transport you from the depths of the Arctic to the islands of the Pacific, from bustling Tudor ports, through the epic sea battles of the 18th and 19th centuries, all the way up to the present day.  

Our out-of-hours tours give you the opportunity see close-up some of the most prized objects in our collection including items recovered from the RMS Titanic and the famous uniform worn by Nelson at the Battle of Trafalgar.  

Tours run: Wednesday to Friday

Cost: £500 for up to 10 guests (£50 per person for each additional guest) 

Timings: 9-10am; 5-6pm

Book now

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Four smiling adults enjoy the view standing beside the replica ship's wheel on Cutty Sark

Cutty Sark

Cutty Sark's record-breaking 1886 voyage from Sydney to London took just 73 days, cementing its reputation as the fastest ship of its time.

Constructed in 1869 to serve the booming China tea trade, Cutty Sark is now the only surviving example of the legendary tea-clippers. Our guided tours allow access to all areas of this historic vessel, including the opportunity to see the ship's famous copper-clad hull from below in the purpose-built dry berth, and the world's largest collection of ship's figureheads.  

Tours run: Wednesday to Friday

Cost: £650 for up to 10 guests (£65 per person for each additional guest) 

Timings: 9-10am; 5-6pm

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Private tours frequently asked questions

Can I continue my visit after the tour?

Yes, if you book a morning tour. After your morning tour is complete, you will be able to visit the site for the rest of the day.

What should I do if I’m running late?

If you're running late, please contact our bookings team on 020 8858 4422 to let us know.

Is photography allowed during the tour?

Yes, photography is allowed on the tour.

If my party is under than 10 people, will I still be charged the minimum entry fee?

Yes, the fee remains the same for up to 10 people.

Is the tour only available in English?

Yes, unfortunately we are only able to offer tours in English.

Can we bring corporate branded material?

No, we do not allow promotional corporate material on the tours.

Where should I meet my guide?

After you place your booking, you will receive email confirmation and further information on where to report, who to ask for and a contact number to call if you have any questions.

What is the maximum number of people?

For parties of 15+, you still need to submit the enquiry form, and our bookings team will assist you with your booking. We can accommodate large groups; very large groups will be divided into smaller sets, with a ratio of one guide to 25 participants. Audio headsets will be provided so everyone will be able to hear their guide.

Can we add catering?

For evening tours, a glass of prosecco can be added to your tour. Please note that the full experience (tour and Prosecco) will last a maximum of 1hr 30mins. If you wish to organise an out-of-hours catering experience, please contact our events team at events@rmg.co.uk.