Old Royal Naval College — Attraction in London

Welcome to the Old Royal Naval College, an extraordinary cultural destination in the heart of the Maritime Greenwich UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Old Royal Naval College’s iconic riverside estate boasts 600 years of rich history linking an incredible cast of monarchs and famous British figures including King Henry VIII, Queen Elizabeth I, William and Mary, Lord Nelson and William Shakespeare.

Built on the site of Greenwich Palace, this extraordinary building, designed by esteemed architect Sir Christopher Wren, has seen life as both a Royal Hospital and a Royal Naval College. From Henry VIII’s birthplace to Lord Nelson’s resting place, these walls contain a wealth of key historical moments.

Following an £8.5-million makeover, you can visit the incredible Painted Hall, also known as the ‘UK’s Sistine chapel’. This 18th century baroque masterpiece, the handiwork of St Paul’s Cathedral painter Sir James Thornhill, is a sight to behold.

Opposite the Painted Hall you’ll find the Chapel of St Peter and St Paul. A beautiful and peaceful place to visit, the Chapel is still an active place of worship and also holds regular lunchtime recitals from the local Trinity Laban students.

Delve into 2,000 years of history connected to this remarkable location in Discover Greenwich at the Visitor Centre, the newly renovated museum space where you’ll find a collection of artefacts, interactive exhibits and intriguing objects.

The Old Royal Naval College are buildings that serve as the architectural centrepiece of Maritime Greenwich, a World Heritage Site in Greenwich, London, described by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) as being of "outstanding universal value" and reckoned to be the "finest and most dramatically sited architectural and landscape ensemble in the British Isles". Formerly the site of a royal palace, the old college was originally constructed to serve as the Royal Navy's Greenwich Hospital, designed by Christopher Wren, and built between 1696 and 1712. The hospital closed in 1869 and so between 1873 and 1998 the buildings were used as a training establishment for the Royal Naval College, Greenwich. The site is now managed by the Greenwich Foundation for the Old Royal Naval College, established in 1997 to conserve the buildings and grounds and convert them into a cultural...

I visited The Royal Naval College on Thursday 16 March 2023. I walked from the coach drop off point which was just inside The West Gate and actually on the university campus to the Visitor Centre which even with reduced mobility, took me approximately 5 minutes. The Visitor Centre has wheelchair accessible toilets and also a lift to the upper levels. There is an extensive array of exhibits detailing the history of the college and the fact that there was a nuclear reactor here , by the name of Jason! There is also a gift shop in this area. The guided tour started outside and concentrated on the fact that the College has played host to the filming of over 50 Hollywood films including one starring Johnny Depp!. However,it did require a lot of standing around. Deborah , a staff member in charge of the day to day running of the Chapel ,on site, kindly took me to see the Painted Hall, while the others went on. The entrance to the Hall is step free and there is a wheelchair lift, which I was also able to use. The wheelchair lifts take one wheelchair and a staff member at a time. The Painted Hall is extremely impressive with walls and ceilings covered in ornate designs including trompe L'oeil. There is extensive red padded bench seating and I even saw other visitors lying on their backs to photograph the ceiling. Apparently the whole hall took nearly 20 years to complete. From here, there is another wheelchair lift down to the café where I had a cream tea. The cafe has another gift area and also extensive seating , ranging from banquettes to groups of tables. The food offering is somewhat limited , outside of the cream tea, but they do sell small tins of Pimm's! I had a nice chat with a volunteer called Bob, who gave great insight into the role of the College during WWII. I was not able to visit the Chapel, but I understand that it is a fully functioning parish church with a local congregation of approximately 100. One can get married here, as long as there is Chapel attendance of at least 6 months and the Archbishop approves! Many thanks to Joanna, the initial guide, Deborah, who took time away from her duties ,and staff member Claudia. As well as the very helpful...

Old Royal Naval College – Place Description The Old Royal Naval College (ORNC) is a historic architectural masterpiece located in Greenwich, London, along the banks of the River Thames. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of London's most iconic landmarks, famous for its stunning baroque architecture, designed by Sir Christopher Wren in the late 17th century.

Historical Significance

Originally built as the Royal Hospital for Seamen (1696-1869), the site later became the Royal Naval College (1873-1998), serving as a premier training institution for the British Royal Navy. Today, it is a tourist attraction, cultural hub, and home to the University of Greenwich.

Architectural Highlights

Painted Hall – Known as the "Sistine Chapel of the UK," this grand dining hall features a breathtaking ceiling painted by Sir James Thornhill (1707-1726), depicting Britain’s maritime glory. Chapel of St Peter and St Paul – A beautifully decorated neoclassical chapel with intricate plasterwork and a stunning altarpiece. King William & Queen Mary Courtyards – The symmetrical layout and grand columns create a visually striking ensemble. Riverside Walks & Views – The site offers picturesque views of the Thames and Canary Wharf. Current Use & Attractions

University of Greenwich – The campus blends historical heritage with modern academic facilities. Filming Location – Featured in movies like Pirates of the Caribbean, Les Misérables, and Thor: The Dark World. Tourist Destination – Visitors can explore its history, attend exhibitions, or take guided tours. The Old Royal Naval College is not just an architectural wonder but also a symbol of Britain’s maritime legacy, attracting visitors, students, and history enthusiasts from...