18. Royal Greenwich Observatory
Sir Christopher Wren's famous Observatory
Greenwich, London
Built-in 1676, the Royal Observatory was an ode to architecture and astronomy. King Charles II commissioned the neo-classical design as a first purpose-built scientific research facility in Britain. It played a significant role in the history of astronomy and navigation. The location eventually formed the prime meridian line, beating the likes of cities such as Paris for the accolade.
The site was set on the hilltop of Greenwich park and was chosen by Sir Cristopher Wren. Before the building of the Observatory it was the location of Greenwich Castle, a hunting lodge for the Tudors.
On a modest budget of £520 (equivalent to £79,000), Wren built the Observatory, known as Flamstead House. The famous wood-panelled interiors of the octagonal room is a draw for architectural historians for the few Wren-designed interiors that can be found in London.