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Old Royal Naval College

Name: Old Royal Naval College
Rating: 4.7

4.7 ·

Step onto the riverside grounds of the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich. Wander the open lawns between Christopher Wren's twin-domed baroque buildings, with the Thames on one side and free entry making it an easy 45-minute stop.

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Reasons to go

Designed by Christopher Wren in the late 17th century as the Royal Hospital for Seamen, a home for retired and injured sailors
The Painted Hall's restored ceiling is often compared to the Sistine Chapel
The twin-domed riverside buildings frame a classic photo view of Canary Wharf across the Thames

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Full description

Designed by Christopher Wren at the end of the 17th century, the Old Royal Naval College began life as the Royal Hospital for Seamen, a home for retired and injured sailors, before later becoming the Royal Naval College and now housing the University of Greenwich alongside public spaces including the Painted Hall and chapel. Reviewers with a 4.7 rating consistently highlight the grandeur of the twin-domed riverside buildings and the open lawns leading down to the Thames, calling it one of Greenwich's most impressive sights even before stepping inside.

Its free admission to the grounds and moderate 45-minute duration make it an easy addition to a Greenwich day that might also include the Cutty Sark and Royal Observatory up the hill.

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Address

London SE10 9NN, UK · East Greenwich

Website

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Hours

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Booking

Walk-in

Duration

45 min

Best time

morning, lunchtime or afternoon

Intensity

Moderate walking

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Good to know

Pay separately to see the restored Painted Hall ceiling, often compared to the Sistine Chapel and worth the small extra cost
combine the visit with the Royal Observatory and Cutty Sark, both a short walk uphill in Greenwich
walk down to the river for the classic photo of the twin domes framing Canary Wharf across the water.

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Reviews

Went for a.festival, Dom Dolla so was always going to be happy but the venue was excellent. Got VIP so was based in the cool hall with separate bar and nice toilets. As a venue I can't fault it, security were good, pricy as ever in the places but ok.

Neil Bussey

3/5

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