Old Royal Naval College Tours and Tickets

There are many different ways to experience London's Old Royal Naval College. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours and trips available right now:

• Westminster to Greenwich Sightseeing Thames Cruise in London
• Old Royal Naval College: Home to the Painted Hall in Greenwich
• Leeds Castle, Canterbury, Dover, and Greenwich with Free Snack Pack
• London: IFS Cable Car and Hop-On Hop-Off 1-Day River Pass
• Best of Greenwich Private Day Tour

The Old Royal Naval College consists of a visitor center, chapel, and the Painted Hall. While the visitor center and chapel are free, the Painted Hall costs £17.50 (roughly US$14) for adults. Upgrade this to an annual pass for no extra charge, and enjoy access for the rest of the year.

Reasons to visit the Old Royal Naval College include centuries of history, royal links, Christopher Wren-designed architecture, and a scenic riverside perch. But it’s most visited for the Painted Hall, which flaunts floor-to-ceiling baroque artwork. In 2019, it was restored to vibrant effect and reopened to the public.

Boasting nearly 40,000 square feet (3,700 square meters) of art across its ceilings and walls, the Painted Hall took artist James Thornhill nearly 20 years to complete. And, the result is certainly impressive, leading to it be dubbed “Britain’s Sistine Chapel,” albeit without the religious slant and the crowds.

While the Painted Hall is the big draw at the Royal Naval College, there are other sights to see. Just opposite the Painted Hall is the neoclassical Chapel of St. Peter and St. Paul—intended as the Royal Hospital for Seamen—plus the quirky Victorian Skittle Alley and extensive grounds.

The Royal Naval College is an in-demand filming location, having provided the backdrop for TV programmes and films since the early 20th century. Notable TV productions cover Great Expectations and The Crown, while Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides and the James Bond film Skyfall are among its big screen hits.