Greenwich, SE10The Old Royal Naval College stands on a site originally occupied by a Tudor palace called Placentia, which was the favourite residence of King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I but it fell into disrepair. Both Henry VIII and Elizabeth 1st were actually born here in the Palace sited on the banks of the Thames. 

The Old Royal Naval College was designed by Sir Christopher Wren as a Royal Hospital for Seamen following Queen Mary II's wish that the King's House at Greenwich be converted to a hospital for wounded sailors (much like Les Invalides in Paris). One of the former Governers of the Hospital was Captain James Cook, the famous explorer. 

The costs of maintaining retired sailors here grew and grew, and eventually it became uneconomic to run, so in 1873 it was decided to utilise the buildings as a Naval College for the training of new Officers, much like Dartmouth.

The College remained as such until 1997 when the decision was taken by the Ministry of Defence to close it.  The buildings needed a new use. Responsibility for the Old Royal Naval College passed to a charitable foundation, the Greenwich Trust

Most of the former Old Naval College buildings are now shared between The University of Greenwich and Trinity Music College.

A new Visitors' Centre has recently been opened, where you can pick up trail maps and can also see the glorious Chapel and Painted Hall.  It is normally open to the public every day between 10.00hrs and 17.00hrs.  Admission is free. You will see the Painted Hall and the Chapel.

The Painted Hall is one of the finest banqueting halls in Europe.  The famous painted ceilings and walls took Sir James Thornhill the artist 19 years to complete - he was the man who was also responsible for the painted Dome in St. Paul's Cathedral.  The body of Nelson lay in state here before his funeral upriver in St. Paul's Cathedral.

The Chapel was originally designed by Sir Christopher Wren for a congregaiton of sailors now secure from the perils of the sea.  It is a classical masterpiece, and contains a superb organ built by Samuel Green.  It has magnificent acoustics and is often the setting for concerts and recitals.  It has also been used as a film set - for "Four Weddings and a Funeral".

The Old Royal Naval College is quite simply unmissable.  It is designated a World heritage Site and is the best grouping of classical buildings on the banks of the Thames.  Don't miss it!

 Nearest Station:  Cutty Sark Docklands Light Railway.

N.B. Occasionally the Painted Hall and the Chapel are closed for special events and prior notice is preferred for disabled visitors.