Perched atop the Maritime Greenwich UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Old Royal Naval College is a remarkable cultural landmark boasting a storied 600-year past. One of London’s most beloved sights, this famous location serves as the centrepiece of Maritime Greenwich and welcomes more than 700,000 tourists per year with its lovely Baroque structures and grounds. Formed in 1997, the Greenwich Foundation is a nonprofit whose mission is to protect the historic buildings and grounds of the Old Royal Naval College along the river.
The Old Royal Naval College’s Heritage
As a museum that showcases maritime history spanning centuries, the Old Royal Naval College offers numerous excursions that delve into its intriguing past. Encapsulating the spirit of nautical glory, the site features the architectural brilliance of Christopher Wren as well as the enthralling narrative of naval heroes like Admiral Nelson. Tickets for General Admission grant entry to guided tours, the world-famous Painted Hall, the fascinating Skittle Alley, and a whole lot more, guaranteeing that guests will enjoy a full and engaging experience.
The Blockbuster Film Tour
An unforgettable behind-the-scenes tour is available at the Old Royal Naval College for history and film aficionados. Empire magazine named this site “the most popular filming location in the world,” and the tour shows scenes from more than 60 famous films and TV shows. There are a lot of movie sets that guests can see on Stranger Tides, including ones from The Crown, Les Misérables, and Pirates of the Caribbean. On this trip, you’ll see the Painted Hall and other famous movie locations, where actors like Johnny Depp, Cary Grant, Ingrid Bergman, and Meryl Streep have walked.
Afternoon Tea in the Undercroft Café
Guests can enjoy a delicious afternoon tea experience at the Undercroft Café after immersing themselves in the historical and cinematic wonders of the Old Royal Naval College. Delicate finger sandwiches, fresh scones with clotted cream and jam, a range of cakes, and sweet treats are part of this gastronomic delight set under the picturesque King William Undercroft. A variety of teas and, if desired, prosecco make the Undercroft Café an ideal spot for contemplation and relaxation.
First Sundays Storytelling
Sundays at the Old Royal Naval College are story times for families and little adventurers. These engaging courses teach while having fun, drawing inspiration from the Painted Hall’s breathtaking artwork. Storytimes bring to life heroic, adventurous, and maritime-themed tales, with an emphasis on children ages 5–10 but open to children of all ages. To make it more convenient for families, they provide both morning and afternoon programmes.
Supporting a National Treasure
For the preservation of this national heritage, the Old Royal Naval College uses a mix of grants, gifts, ticket sales, and retail sales. Help keep this cultural treasure alive for years to come by paying a visit, making a donation, or just spreading the news. Old Royal Naval College is a vital and accessible historic site, and your involvement with the Greenwich Foundation helps fund preservation efforts to maintain it that way.
Finally, a trip to the Old Royal Naval College isn’t just about going back in time; it’s also about falling in love with learning through interactive storytelling sessions, indulging in culinary delights, experiencing the magic of cinema, and immersing oneself in the captivating stories of maritime history. By delving into the history of the Old Royal Naval College, you join a community that is passionate about honouring and maintaining the legacy that has transformed the maritime industry.
