Londoners are set to witness a partial solar eclipse tonight, with up to 96 per cent of the Sun obscured by the Moon, marking the most spectacular eclipse visible from the UK since 1999, according to the Royal Observatory Greenwich. The event peaks at 7.12pm in London, when roughly 90 per cent of the Sun will be covered, and concludes around 8.10pm.
Greenwich Park as Prime Viewing Spot
Greenwich Park is expected to be a popular destination for eclipse-watchers, with the Royal Observatory hosting a sold-out viewing event featuring experts from the Flamsteed Astronomy Society. Entry to the park itself is free, and the observatory is also offering a free live stream for those who prefer to watch from home.
The Royal Parks, which operates Greenwich Park, has issued a statement urging visitors to be cautious, especially given the unusually dry conditions following successive heatwaves and the hottest July on record. The statement emphasizes that amplified music, fireworks, and BBQs are strictly prohibited in all Royal Parks.
Safety and Fire Risk Warnings
“Following successive heatwaves and the hottest July on record, the grass is exceptionally dry,” the statement added. “Visitors are reminded to take special care to extinguish and dispose of cigarettes safely and to take litter, especially glass, home if bins are full, to help prevent the risk of a dangerous wildfire starting and spreading.”
Spectators are advised to use certified eclipse glasses or indirect viewing methods like a pinhole projector, as looking directly at the Sun can cause permanent eye damage.
Alternative Viewing Locations
For those seeking alternatives, Parliament Hill on Hampstead Heath (98 metres elevation), Telegraph Hill in South London (58 metres), and Primrose Hill in North London (64 metres) offer excellent views. The next deep partial solar eclipse visible from the UK will not occur until 2050, with the next total solar eclipse not until 2090.
