The Painted Hall at Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich
Explore the breathtaking Painted Hall, a Baroque masterpiece with vivid ceilings and walls celebrating Britain’s naval and royal heritage.
The Painted Hall, often called 'Britain's Sistine Chapel,' is a breathtaking Baroque masterpiece located within the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, London. Painted by Sir James Thornhill between 1707 and 1726, it features over 3,700 square metres of vividly detailed ceilings and walls depicting more than 200 figures, including monarchs, mythological creatures, and allegorical scenes. Originally a dining hall for naval pensioners, it is now a celebrated cultural landmark open for tours, exhibitions, and events.
A brief summary to Painted Hall
- College Way, London, SE10 9NN, GB
- +442082694799
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets online to access multimedia guides and expert talks included in the price.
- Children under 16 enter free with a paying adult, and activity booklets are available for young visitors.
- Visit the exact spot where Admiral Lord Nelson lay in state, marked by a plaque on the floor.
- Try lying back on the carved oak ‘day beds’ to view the ceiling as Lord Nelson did.
- Explore the nearby Chapel of St Peter and St Paul and the Discover Greenwich Museum for a fuller historical context.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train
Take a Southeastern train from London Bridge to Greenwich station, approximately an 8-12 minute journey. Trains run frequently throughout the day. From Greenwich station, the Painted Hall is a 10-minute walk through the historic town centre. Tickets cost around £5-£7 for a single adult journey.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve Greenwich, including routes 129, 177, and 180. Bus travel times vary between 20-40 minutes from central London locations. Buses stop near the Old Royal Naval College, with easy access to the Painted Hall. Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for fares around £1.75 per journey.
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Riverboat
Thames Clippers riverboats run from central London piers such as Embankment or Tower Pier to Greenwich Pier in about 30-40 minutes. The Painted Hall is a 5-minute walk from the pier. Riverboat tickets cost approximately £7-£10 one way and offer a scenic approach to Greenwich.
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Car
Driving to Greenwich is possible but limited by parking availability and congestion charges in central London. Nearby public car parks are available, but expect to pay £15-£25 for parking. The area is best explored on foot once parked due to pedestrian-friendly historic streets.
Painted Hall location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Painted Hall
Artistic Grandeur and Baroque Mastery
The Painted Hall is a monumental work of Baroque art conceived and executed by Sir James Thornhill over nineteen years, from 1707 to 1726. Covering more than 3,700 square metres, its ceilings and walls are adorned with intricate frescoes that portray a rich tapestry of allegorical, mythological, historical, and contemporary figures. The artwork celebrates Britain's political stability, naval supremacy, and commercial prosperity during the early 18th century, including depictions of the Protestant accessions of King William III, Queen Mary II, and George I. Thornhill’s masterful use of trompe l’oeil and chiaroscuro techniques creates a vivid illusionistic effect that enlivens the grand architectural space.Historical Significance and Royal Connections
Situated on the site of the former Greenwich Palace, birthplace of Tudor monarchs such as Henry VIII and Elizabeth I, the Painted Hall was originally designed as a dining room for Greenwich Pensioners, retired naval servicemen. Over time, it evolved into a ceremonial space and tourist attraction, hosting special functions including the lying-in-state of Admiral Lord Nelson in 1806, a moment commemorated by a plaque marking the exact spot of his coffin. The hall also served as the first National Gallery of Naval Art for a century and later as a dining hall for Royal Navy trainees until 1997.Architectural Context and Surroundings
The Painted Hall is housed within the Old Royal Naval College, a masterpiece of architecture designed by Sir Christopher Wren. This riverside estate is part of the Maritime Greenwich UNESCO World Heritage Site and includes the stunning Chapel of St Peter and St Paul, the Discover Greenwich Museum, and beautifully maintained grounds. The site reflects over 600 years of British history, linking monarchs, naval heroes, and cultural milestones in a rich narrative woven through its buildings and artworks.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Since its reopening in 2019 after an extensive £8.5 million restoration, the Painted Hall welcomes visitors daily with multimedia guides available in seven languages, expert talks every half hour, and family-friendly activities including Explorer Backpacks and free entry for children under 16. The venue is fully accessible, offering facilities such as disabled toilets, ear defenders, British Sign Language support, and wheelchair hire. Visitors can also enjoy the adjacent Visitor Centre with a museum, shop, and café, enhancing the cultural experience.Living Heritage and Cultural Events
Beyond its historical and artistic significance, the Painted Hall remains a vibrant cultural hub. It hosts exhibitions, music events, yoga sessions, and silent discos, bridging its storied past with contemporary creative expression. Its cinematic appeal has made it a sought-after filming location for major productions, further embedding it in popular culture. The hall’s grandeur and layered narratives invite visitors to immerse themselves in Britain’s naval legacy and artistic heritage.Legacy of Sir James Thornhill
Sir James Thornhill, the first English artist knighted for his work, dedicated nearly two decades to this project, earning a substantial sum equivalent to over a million pounds today. His dedication is said to have physically affected him, as he spent long hours painting overhead. Thornhill’s work on the Painted Hall remains a pinnacle of British Baroque art, celebrated for its scale, complexity, and political symbolism, continuing to inspire and captivate audiences centuries later.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bellot Memorial Greenwich
0.1 km
A solemn obelisk in Greenwich honoring Lieutenant Joseph René Bellot’s Arctic bravery and sacrifice during the Franklin rescue expeditions.
Trafalgar Tavern
0.3 km
Historic Greenwich riverside pub since 1837, famed for whitebait feasts, naval art, and Thames panoramas—perfect for pints, roasts, and celebrations.
Maritime Greenwich a World Heritage Site
0.4 km
Explore Maritime Greenwich, where royal heritage, maritime history, and the birthplace of Greenwich Mean Time converge in a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Greenwich Foot Tunnel North
0.5 km
Walk beneath the Thames through 200,000 white tiles in this 1902 engineering marvel.
Anchor Iron Wharf
0.5 km
Historic riverside wharf in Greenwich marked by a large anchor sculpture, blending maritime heritage with stunning Thames views.
St Anne's Church, Limehouse
3.6 km
Discover St Anne's Church, Limehouse—an 18th-century Baroque maritime landmark with rich naval heritage and mysterious architectural features.
Execution Dock
4.1 km
A haunting riverside landmark where London’s maritime law was enforced through centuries of public executions.
Shadwell Basin
4.1 km
Experience the peaceful beauty of Shadwell Basin, a serene spot in London perfect for relaxation and scenic walks amidst nature's charm.
King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)
4.2 km
Historic Thames foreshore site where pirates and maritime criminals faced grim justice under Admiralty law for over 400 years.
The Captain Kidd
4.2 km
Historic riverside pub with authentic maritime charm, classic ales, and scenic Thames views in London’s Wapping district.
Execution Dock House
4.4 km
Historic riverside site where pirates and maritime criminals met justice in London’s centuries-old Admiralty executions.
Ornamental Canal
4.7 km
Explore the serene Ornamental Canal in London, a picturesque waterway perfect for relaxation, scenic views, and rich history.
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
4.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, a unique blend of nature, history, and community nestled in the heart of London.
International House
4.8 km
Discover the International House in London, a symbol of global unity and vibrant cultural exchange at the heart of the city.
St Katharine Docks Marina
5.2 km
London's only central marina: historic waterfront elegance where maritime heritage meets modern leisure.
Unmissable attractions to see
Naval College Gardens
0.0 km
A tranquil riverside garden in Greenwich, framed by the Old Royal Naval College and offering views of the Cutty Sark and Canary Wharf across the Thames.
Trinity Laban
0.0 km
The UK's premier conservatoire for music and contemporary dance, set within the historic Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich.
Cutty Sark Gardens
0.1 km
A serene riverside park in Greenwich showcasing the historic Cutty Sark tea clipper and offering scenic Thames views and vibrant cultural connections.
Greenwich Tourist Information Desk
0.1 km
Explore London's maritime heritage at the Greenwich Tourist Information Desk, your gateway to local attractions and experiences.
Cutty Sark
0.2 km
Explore the world’s fastest surviving tea clipper, Cutty Sark, a historic maritime treasure in the heart of Greenwich with immersive exhibits and stunning river views.
Greenwich Market
0.2 km
Historic Greenwich Market blends antiques, artisan crafts, and global street food in a vibrant, covered London landmark open daily.
National Maritime Museum
0.2 km
Explore Britain’s rich naval history at the world’s largest maritime museum, set in scenic Greenwich with free entry and engaging galleries for all ages.
5b Greenwich Market
0.2 km
A historic covered market in Greenwich, London, brimming with artisan crafts, antiques, vintage finds, and global street food in a lively, community-focused setting.
National Maritime Museum Gardens
0.2 km
A tranquil garden oasis within London’s premier maritime museum complex, blending history, nature, and family-friendly charm.
Greenwich Pier
0.2 km
Historic Greenwich Pier offers scenic river cruises and easy access to London's maritime landmarks and vibrant cultural heritage along the Thames.
Queen's House
0.3 km
Discover England’s first classical building, the Queen's House in Greenwich, a timeless blend of royal history, art, and architectural brilliance.
1 Greenwich Church St
0.3 km
Historic Greenwich Church Street blends centuries of heritage with vibrant shops, eateries, and iconic landmarks by the Thames.
The Greenwich Vintage Market
0.3 km
Discover rare antiques, vintage treasures, and eclectic crafts in the heart of historic Greenwich’s vibrant market scene.
Greenwich Foot Tunnel
0.3 km
Step beneath the Thames through a century-old pedestrian tunnel linking historic Greenwich with the modern Isle of Dogs.
St Alfege Church
0.3 km
Discover over a millennium of history, architecture, and music at St Alfege Church, the heart of Greenwich’s spiritual heritage.
Essential places to dine
Goddards at Greenwich
0.2 km
Experience authentic British pie and mash at Goddards at Greenwich, a historic eatery serving traditional comfort food in a welcoming setting.
Sticks'n'Sushi Greenwich
0.2 km
Experience fresh sushi and Nordic-inspired grilled sticks in stylish Greenwich, where maritime history meets modern Japanese cuisine.
Pho Street
0.2 km
Authentic Vietnamese pho, banh mi, and bubble tea served in a lively Greenwich setting with fresh flavors and warm hospitality.
Bill's Greenwich Restaurant
0.3 km
A cozy British restaurant in Greenwich offering hearty dishes, friendly service, and a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere from breakfast to late dinner.
The Sail Loft, Greenwich
0.5 km
Stylish riverside dining in Greenwich with panoramic Thames views, modern British cuisine, and versatile event spaces.
Midpoint Restaurant
0.5 km
Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dining with riverside views and warm hospitality in London’s vibrant SE10 district.
Sefa Restaurant
0.6 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Greenwich.
The Prince of Greenwich Pub
0.8 km
A vibrant gastropub in Greenwich blending quirky museum charm, authentic Italian cuisine, and lively jazz in a historic London setting.
The Hill
0.9 km
A vibrant Mediterranean and Latin American fusion restaurant with a cozy garden setting in the heart of Greenwich.
Restaurant Story
5.4 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
La Dame de Pic London
5.8 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
6.0 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
6.0 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
14 Hills
6.1 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Nomadic community
6.2 km
A colorful, community-driven urban garden near Brick Lane, blending street art, creativity, and green space in East London’s vibrant cultural scene.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Painted hall gift shop
0.0 km
Souvenirs and stories from Greenwich's naval heart—tote bags, books, and treasures evoking the Painted Hall's timeless splendor.
Rare Books & Curios
0.2 km
A compact Greenwich Market stall overflowing with rare and vintage books, maps and printed curios that reward slow, tactile browsing.
Arc Angel Boutique London
0.2 km
Elegant womenswear samples, striking accessories, and quirky gifts await in Greenwich Market's stylish haven, where fashion meets historic charm.
Dragonfly Lifestyle
0.2 km
A small Greenwich boutique blending mindful womenswear, handcrafted jewellery and wellbeing finds in a calm, curated shop environment.
Joli Vintage Living
0.3 km
Discover timeless threads and retro treasures at Joli Vintage Living, Greenwich's gem for sustainable, era-spanning style on charming Nelson Road.
Greenwich Gifts Candy Land
0.3 km
Dive into a candy wonderland on Greenwich Church Street, where British classics and global sweets make perfect edible souvenirs in London's historic heart.
The Cutty Sark Gift Shop
0.3 km
Discover maritime magic and London keepsakes at this Greenwich gem, brimming with Cutty Sark-inspired treasures and souvenirs just steps from the historic clipper ship.
Made in Greenwich
0.3 km
Discover Greenwich's handmade heart: a not-for-profit haven where local makers' treasures shine, fueling community creativity one unique gift at a time.
The Junk Shop
0.7 km
Lose yourself in Greenwich's maze-like antique wonderland, where eclectic treasures, a cozy tearoom, and quirky finds await around every cluttered corner.
La Boutique Vintage
1.2 km
Unearth retro home treasures in Greenwich's cozy furniture nook—sustainable style with vintage soul.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
5.4 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
Bermondsey Antique Market
5.4 km
Uncover vintage treasures at London’s oldest antiques market, where history meets haggling every Friday morning in Bermondsey Square.
Tower of London Shop
5.7 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Traders Gate
5.8 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
Unique Store
5.8 km
Explore London's Unique Store: Your go-to convenience shop for local snacks, souvenirs, and essentials, right in the heart of the city.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Gipsy Moth
0.2 km
Historic Greenwich pub with Cutty Sark views, hearty grub, beer garden bliss, and live music vibes—perfect for nautical nostalgia and relaxed revelry.
Kings Arms
0.2 km
Classic Greenwich pub with hearty grub, real ales, dog-friendly beer garden, and riverside vibes—perfect for post-sightseeing pints.
Ye Olde Rose & Crown Greenwich
0.4 km
Traditional Greenwich pub pouring real ales and pub classics next to the theatre—perfect for families, dogs, and post-show pints in historic surrounds.
The Lost Hour
0.6 km
Greenwich's craft beer epicenter where sports, pub grub, and late-night vibes collide—lose yourself in the fun on High Road.
Mindful Mixology
0.7 km
A compact Greenwich cocktail bar focused on lower-sugar craft drinks, hands-on masterclasses and a calm riverside atmosphere.
Greenwich Town Social Club
1.0 km
Cozy Greenwich social hub for cheap drinks, karaoke nights, and neighborhood camaraderie on Blackwall Lane.
Td 338 Bar
1.6 km
Warehouse wonderland with epic sound, lush terraces, and non-stop beats—London's hidden rave escape on Greenwich Peninsula.
All Bar One Greenwich
2.2 km
Elevate your O2 experience at this multi-floor haven of wines, cocktails, and event-night energy—perfect for pre-show feasts and lively toasts amid London's entertainment epicenter.
Eighteen Sky Bar
2.3 km
Elevate your evening with crafted cocktails and 360-degree skyline views from the 18th floor over Thames, Canary Wharf, and The O2.
Drink At Bob's
3.6 km
Lively cocktail bar in Hither Green blending expertly crafted drinks, live music, and a welcoming vibe with vegan-friendly options.
The Midnight Apothecary
3.8 km
Discover a magical rooftop bar blending botanical cocktails, fire pits, and historic tunnel tours atop London’s Brunel Museum.
Nine Lives
5.7 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
5.8 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
5.9 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill, blending dark medieval history with refined ales and classic British fare in a Grade II listed building.
The Old School Yard
6.0 km
Step into a lively retro playground with expertly crafted cocktails, classic arcade games, and a vibrant 80s and 90s atmosphere in London Bridge.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Bunker
1.6 km
A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.
The Hatch Club
2.2 km
A late-night New Cross club with a roomy dancefloor, VIP sections and bass-forward DJ nights—built for parties and private events.
The Venue
2.2 km
A vibrant multi-room nightclub in New Cross, London, blending diverse music, cutting-edge sound, and a welcoming atmosphere since 1989.
American Express Invites Lounge
2.3 km
A backstage‑inspired, Cardmember-only lounge at The O2 with distinct seating zones, crafted drinks and a complimentary welcome drink on event nights.
(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub
2.4 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
LA Lounge
2.9 km
London's top Afrobeats nightclub in Docklands: ethnic sophistication, VIP vibes, cocktails, and late-night dances until 4am on weekends.
CQ LOUNGE
3.8 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
Club 701
4.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
E1
4.8 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Corsica Studios
6.5 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
The Steel Yard
6.5 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
Ministry of Sound
6.7 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
The Hoxton Pony
7.0 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Trafik
7.1 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
Basing House - Shoreditch
7.1 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Tranquil
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Baroque
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly