The Painted Hall at the Old Royal Naval College
Explore Britain’s Sistine Chapel, a breathtaking Baroque masterpiece celebrating naval glory and royal heritage in historic Greenwich.
The Painted Hall in Greenwich, London, is a spectacular Baroque masterpiece renowned as 'Britain’s Sistine Chapel.' Painted by Sir James Thornhill between 1707 and 1726, its ceiling and walls cover 40,000 square feet with over 200 figures depicting British naval triumphs and royal symbolism. Once a dining hall for naval pensioners and officers, it now serves as a celebrated historic attraction following an extensive restoration completed in 2019.
A brief summary to Painted Hall
- College Way, London, SE10 9NN, GB
- +442082694799
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 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 in advance to secure entry and consider the annual pass option for unlimited visits over a year.
- Join one of the daily guided talks to learn about the rich symbolism and stories behind the Painted Hall’s artwork.
- Try lying back on the specially carved oak day beds to view the ceiling paintings comfortably, as Admiral Nelson once did.
- Children under 16 enter free, and activity booklets and sensory backpacks are available to enhance family visits.
- Visit the nearby Chapel of St Peter and St Paul and the Discover Greenwich museum to deepen your understanding of the site.
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. From the station, it’s a 10-15 minute walk to the Painted Hall. Trains run frequently throughout the day. Tickets cost around £5-£8 one way.
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Riverboat
Board a Thames Clippers riverboat from central London piers such as Embankment or Tower Pier to Greenwich Pier. The scenic trip takes about 30-40 minutes. From the pier, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Painted Hall. Tickets range from £7-£12.
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Bus
Use London bus routes 129, 177, or 180 to Greenwich town center. The journey from central London takes 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. The Painted Hall is a short walk from the bus stops. Standard London bus fares apply, around £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card.
Painted Hall location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Painted Hall
Origins and Artistic Vision
The Painted Hall is a monumental Baroque interior located within the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich. Conceived and painted by Sir James Thornhill over nineteen years from 1707 to 1726, the hall’s vast ceiling and walls cover approximately 3,700 square meters (40,000 square feet). Thornhill’s work is celebrated for its dramatic use of trompe l’oeil and chiaroscuro techniques, creating an illusionistic architectural space filled with mythological figures, British monarchs, and naval symbolism. His ambitious scheme earned him a knighthood and stands as one of the most important examples of British Baroque art.Historical Significance and Uses
Originally designed as a grand dining hall for the Royal Hospital for Seamen, the Painted Hall quickly transcended its functional role to become a ceremonial and public space. It hosted significant events, including the lying-in-state of Admiral Lord Nelson in 1806, marked today by a plaque on the floor. From 1824, it housed the National Gallery of Naval Art, showcasing works by artists such as J.M.W. Turner. Later, between 1937 and 1997, it served as a dining hall for trainee officers of the Royal Navy. The hall’s rich history reflects the evolving maritime and military heritage of Britain.Architectural and Artistic Highlights
Thornhill’s paintings are notable for their political and cultural narratives, portraying Britain’s rise as a global naval power under the Georgian monarchy. The imagery includes allegorical figures, royal portraits, and scenes celebrating naval victories and prosperity. The hall’s decoration is a masterclass in Baroque theatricality, combining vivid color, intricate detail, and expansive compositions that envelop visitors. The Painted Hall is often called 'Britain’s Sistine Chapel' due to its scale and artistic grandeur.Restoration and Visitor Experience
After centuries of wear, the Painted Hall underwent an £8.5 million restoration project completed in 2019, revitalizing the vivid colors and intricate details of Thornhill’s masterpiece. Today, visitors can explore the hall with multimedia guides available in multiple languages, participate in expert-led talks held every half hour, and enjoy interactive exhibits at the nearby Visitor Centre. The site welcomes families, offering activity booklets and sensory backpacks for children. The Painted Hall remains a vibrant cultural venue, hosting exhibitions and events that celebrate its heritage.Setting Within Greenwich’s Maritime Heritage
The Painted Hall is part of the Old Royal Naval College, a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated on the historic grounds of Greenwich Palace, birthplace of Tudor monarchs Henry VIII and Elizabeth I. The college complex, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, is an architectural gem overlooking the River Thames. Visitors to the Painted Hall can also explore the Chapel of St Peter and St Paul, the Discover Greenwich museum, and the beautifully maintained grounds, all steeped in over 600 years of British history.Cultural Impact and Filming Location
The Painted Hall’s dramatic interior has made it a favored filming location for more than 200 productions, including films like 'Four Weddings and a Funeral' and 'Lara Croft: Tomb Raider.' Its cultural resonance extends beyond art and history, contributing to popular media and tourism. The hall’s blend of historical significance, artistic achievement, and public accessibility makes it a must-see landmark in London.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bellot Memorial Greenwich
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Trafalgar Tavern
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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
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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
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Walk beneath the Thames through 200,000 white tiles in this 1902 engineering marvel.
Anchor Iron Wharf
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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
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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
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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
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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
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The Junk Shop
0.7 km
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La Boutique Vintage
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Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
5.4 km
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Bermondsey Antique Market
5.4 km
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Tower of London Shop
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Traders Gate
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Unique Store
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Gipsy Moth
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Kings Arms
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Ye Olde Rose & Crown Greenwich
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The Lost Hour
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Greenwich's craft beer epicenter where sports, pub grub, and late-night vibes collide—lose yourself in the fun on High Road.
Mindful Mixology
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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
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Eighteen Sky Bar
2.3 km
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Drink At Bob's
3.6 km
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The Midnight Apothecary
3.8 km
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Nine Lives
5.7 km
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Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
5.8 km
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The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
5.9 km
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The Old School Yard
6.0 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Bunker
1.6 km
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The Hatch Club
2.2 km
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The Venue
2.2 km
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American Express Invites Lounge
2.3 km
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(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub
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LA Lounge
2.9 km
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CQ LOUNGE
3.8 km
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Club 701
4.3 km
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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
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The Steel Yard
6.5 km
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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
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Baroque
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
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
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly