Parts of London are preparing for a rare astronomical display this evening as a partial solar eclipse passes over the capital. According to Royal Museums Greenwich, about 90% of the sun will be obscured when the moon moves between the Earth and the sun.
When to look
The eclipse is due to begin at 6.17pm, with the greatest phase expected at 7.13pm. From London the event will continue until around 8.06pm, giving a total duration of about 1 hour and 49 minutes for the partial eclipse.
Best vantage points in the capital
Royal Museums Greenwich points to Greenwich Park as an excellent spot to watch the sky event, offering wide western views and the added interest of being the home of the Royal Observatory and the Prime Meridian. The source notes the park is likely to be busy.
For those who prefer fewer crowds, Telegraph Hill in south-east London (near Nunhead) is listed as an alternative that still provides open sky views towards the setting sun.
- Greenwich Park — central viewing location with the Royal Observatory nearby.
- Telegraph Hill — quieter, south-east London option with good western skyline views.
Why this eclipse matters
Royal Museums Greenwich reminds the public why the phenomenon occurs:
“A solar eclipse occurs when the Earth, moon and sun align. The moon passes in front of the sun and blocks its light, casting a small shadow on Earth.”
The observatory also points out the rarity of such events for the UK: the next total solar eclipse visible from the UK is not expected until 2090, making tonight’s partial eclipse an opportunity many residents may wish to seize.
Safety — do not look at the sun without protection
Authorities emphasise strict safety precautions. The Royal Observatory warns that people should never look directly at the sun without appropriate filters. The source materials show local schoolchildren wearing protective glasses to view a partial solar eclipse from Greenwich Park, underlining the importance of proper eye protection for observers of all ages.
If you are planning to watch the eclipse, ensure any viewing spectacle or glass is certified for solar observation. Without the correct protection, looking at the sun can cause immediate and permanent eye damage.
How long and how much of the sun will be covered
From London the eclipse will run from 6.17pm to 8.06pm and reach its peak at 7.13pm. In other parts of the UK, the extent of coverage will vary — Cornwall, for example, is forecast to see up to 95% coverage and was identified as the best place to view the event in the UK.
| Item | Time / Figure |
|---|---|
| Start (London) | 6.17pm |
| Maximum (London) | 7.13pm |
| End (London) | 8.06pm |
| Estimated obscuration | ~90% (London) |
Residents heading out to view the eclipse should expect busy open spaces, particularly at well-known vantage points. Observers are advised to bring adequate eye protection, avoid looking directly at the sun without filters, and to supervise children closely.
As this is a local event with national interest, parks and public areas may be crowded in the hour around the maximum phase. Do plan your journey to and from viewing points with that in mind.
For those unable to go outside, the Royal Observatory and other institutions may provide guidance and resources online to follow the eclipse safely from home.
This evening’s partial eclipse offers Londoners a rare chance to witness a major celestial alignment. With the next UK total eclipse decades away, safe viewing and sensible planning will allow as many people as possible to enjoy the event.
