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Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich

The Old Royal Naval College was designed by Christopher Wren. Work continued into the early eighteenth century, overseen by other eminent architects. The site was originally used as a hospital for sick or dependent seamen and their families, and also as a centre for research into navigation techniques. The hospital closed in 1869, and reopened in 1873 as the Royal Naval College, dedicated to naval officer training. The college continued in this role until 1998, when the navy's educational centre moved to Shrivenham. Today the University of Greenwich and the Trinity College of Music use many of the buildings.

The grounds of the college, the Painted Hall and the Chapel are open to the public. The Painted Hall was the dining room of the college. This huge room is decorated with paintings by James Thornhill. The paintings took nineteen years to complete at the beginning of the eighteenth century. Thornhill's paintings dramatise the political and cultural situation of the time. William and Mary are shown enthroned in heaven. Louis the Fourteenth of France is shown below William holding a broken sword. Meanwhile figures personifying Peace and Liberty are busy defeating Tyranny. The vast ceiling painting celebrates Queen Anne who succeeded William and Mary. Figures representing Europe, Africa, Asia and America are shown offering their respects to Anne. This painting sums up the confidence of the British Empire at this time.

 

Opening Times: The grounds are open daily from 8am until 6pm. The Painted Hall is generally open between 10am and 5pm, although the room is sometimes closed for weddings. The Chapel has the same opening hours, with a service on Sunday at 11am. As with the Painted Hall, the Chapel is sometimes closed for other events. Closed 24th-26th December.

Directions: The Old Royal Naval College is just off Romney Road in Greenwich. Click here for an interactive map centred on the Old Royal Naval College.

Access: within the college grounds there are good paths, and the site is almost entirely on one level. Wheelchair access to the Painted Hall and the Chapel should not present problems. Use the contact information below to confirm.

Contact:

telephone: +44(0) 20 8269 4747

web site:www.greenwichfoundation.org.uk

It is possible to stay in the Greenwich World Heritage Site. Devoport House offers historic, and high quality accommodation.