This is a must-see Virtual Tour of Wrens overlooked Masterpiece Sir Christopher Wren's riverside masterpiece The Painted Hall at the Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich was completed between 17O7 and 1726 by the artist Sir James Thornhill. It is one of the greatest decorative painted schemes in England. The Painted Hall and the other buildings of the Royal Hospital for Seamen at Greenwich were designed to be a public display of magnificence, reflecting the power and prestige of the Royal Navy. Explore the interiors of the Painted Hall. Explore the hall with our Virtual Tour tool. VISITING THE PAINTED HALL Experience 'Britain's Sistine. Chapel' and discover a truly extraordinary space. Multimedia guides (available in seven languages) are available included in your ticket price. Regular talks about the history and meaning of the Painted Hall take place throughout the day. VISITING WITH CHILDREN Children are welcome at the Painted Hall. Kids aged 16 or under go free (up to four children per paying adult). A free activity booklet is available as well Explorer Backpacks filled with sensory objects to borrow for little ones. WHAT DO THE PAINTINGS MEAN? Sir James Thornhill's epic painting draws on a cast of around 200 figures to tell an incredible story of political change, scientific and cultural achievements, naval endeavours and commercial enterprise all set against a series of magnificent backdrops. The characters allegorical, mythological, historical and contemporary. on a pivotal moment when the United Kingdom was created and became a dominant power. The central narrative focuses in Europe. The paintings celebrate Britain's political stability, commercial prosperity and naval power. It also depicts the Protestant accessions to the throne of King William III and Queen Mary II in 1688 and George I

The Painted Hall is certainly a spectacular building and probably the number one thing to do if you’re in Greenwich (particularly if you’re short of time), though there are many historical and absolutely brilliant things to do & see in Greenwich, so don't write the others off! The hall is a masterpiece of Baroque decoration. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren as a ceremonial dining room for what was then the new Royal Hospital for Sea men, it was painted by Sir James Thornhill over the course of 19 years, and completed in 1726. The ceiling is full of detail, with elaborate painting techniques, with the central part of the main ceiling featuring almost 300 characters, and depicting the protestant rulers William and Mary (though both monarchs had already died by the time the ceiling was painted). The ceiling describes the turbulent times for monarchy and politics, and references maritime power in Britain. The body of Admiral Horatio Nelson lay in state in the Painted Hall before he was taken for burial at St Paul’s Cathedral in 1806. It has also been used as a location for films and TV series, most recently featuring in The Crown (various seasons). There are audio guides which are well worth purchasing with your ticket, but they also have free guided tours which take about 30 minutes (the admissions staff will advise if there is one starting). I didn’t do the audio guide, but the tour guide was very knowledgeable and spoke about key sections of the ceiling. I’d recommend doing the guided tour, and then the audio guide on top of that. There are padded benches down the middle of the room for you to lie down and stare up at the ceiling, as there’s a lot of neck craning!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

I came here with my friend all the way from West London to see Museum of the Moon exhibition at 10am when the museum open. We were told that with annual pass, we can walk in without having to pre-book. However, once we arrived, the lady at the door stopped us from going in and said that all tickets are sold out (which I understand), and the hall is at full capacity (but it has to be empty inside when we arrived right on time when it opens). The staff were rude and arrogant and said that we won’t be able to go inside no matter how. They were unapologetic, unbothered, and showed no empathy at all. If you can’t get in with an annual pass on special exhibitions, what’s the point of having an annual pass at all? Or at least, maybe let annual pass member book a free or discounted ticket online in advance. Worst experience in London ever.

Trekking out to Greenwich London for the Painted Hall is only recommended if you are spending at least 4 or more days in London. However, if you do make it out there, I would also highly recommend you do the 45 minute historic grounds tour. Our guide (Phillip) was exceptional in providing info on British history, how the buildings came to be etc. It was totally fascinating. I also visited the Queens House which was fine but not worth schlepping out there if you have limited time. I would also recommend they provide a tram or bus to take people up to the Observatory. Apparently it is a very steep ascent so not as many people do it as would want to (me included).
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

I've lived just outside London for a very long time and felt I'd missed something so special when we visited the Painted Hall!! It is truly a beautiful Hall! It felt as though you could've been in Italy looking up and around the Hall. The paintings came with an audio headset visit and helped learn about the paintings. This came free when you purchased the ticket. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Greenwich as a whole to visit but particularly this area. It's best to go in the morning as it's quieter and queues short. There is a lot to see and do, and there are so many places to have a picnic.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Beautiful building with a rich history. Walking through the painted hall with the guided tour is definitely recommend. I've been here twice in the past year and learn something new every time I'm here. Walking into the hall put me in awe and I felt like I was transported back in time. We happened to be there at the same time as they were filming for the crown which was also an experience, I'm not surprised that they film such stuff here as it's an authentic and preserved part of the past. I recommend getting tickets in advance as it can get booked very quickly due to popularity.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Wasn't sure I would enjoy myself here, but was very pleasantly surprised. We paid the £15 to get in and took advantage of the guided tour which I think is supposed to be every 30 mins. The tour lasted approx. 50 mins, and in my opinion we had the best guide ever. A very knowledgeable ex-history teacher, who made it fun and interesting....wish I could remember his name (possibly Peter)...but suffice to say I wish he had been my history teacher at school...as I may have listened and learned something If you like art or history, or both, you won't be disappointed.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait

A mesmerising, less well-known hall to learn about history and be taken aback by incredible art. Tickets come with an audio guide which focus in on important areas and features of the painting. There are also benches which you are encouraged to lay on, in order to enjoy the full view and appreciate all aspects of the paintings. This is a small area, so it is best to come during a weekday, when there are less people. Also highly recommend giving yourself more time to enjoy that you expect - you'll spend longer than you anticipated!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

I was wowed when I visited here with my friend. It’s such a hidden gem considering I schooled at the University of Greenwich but never knew it existed. I particularly liked the arrangement of benches there available to lay on and fully immerse the paintings on the ceiling. It is very beautiful and a nice way to get to know more about the arts and culture of Greenwich. The pricing especially for students which allows the ticket to be reused for a year makes it even better! I recommend to visit during a day trip.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

One of my very favorite places in London. The first time I came here it literally took my breath away. The history of this place is incredible so if you can get a tour I would recommend it (they are included with the ticket). I have now been twice and it was just as stunning the second time. Take a trip to Greenwich to see this and explore the naval college, the Queens house, Greenwich market, and take in the view from the royal observatory for a nice day in Greenwich.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

While touring Greenwich, London SE10 for my blog, I visited The Painted Hall at the Old Royal Naval College. Its beauty is truly spectacular, though there is an admission fee of £15, which might feel a bit steep given the brief time it takes to explore the site. In addition to The Painted Hall, there's the Nelson Room to see. A tunnel walk leads to the Chapel of St Peter and St Paul, adding to the experience. However, for those mindful of their budget, opting for free attractions like the Queen's House might be a better choice.

I came here for the 2nd time for the Museum of the Moon exhibition and was told via email that with annual pass, i can walk in without having to pre-book but once i came in the staffs and head-staff was giving off rude and arrogant attitude on me saying that the email is invalid and that I have to wait for 2 hours to get the entry ( when the email said that i can just walk-in) They were unapologetic and unbothered which is greatly unacceptable and rude. Worse experience ever.

This is a spectacular place. The painting and trompe l'oeil are remarkable as is the history behind them. Currently an incredible moon 500,000/1 in size is suspended from the ceiling. Peter, our guide, was full of gems of information and added hugely to our experience and knowledge regarding the building and its baroque interior. One of the must see buildings of London and Greenwich.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Gorgeous building in Greenwich, I recommend a visit if you're in the area and you're interested in art. The audio guide is very well done, so I recommend taking that in order to appreciate every part of it and understand the meaning of it. You have to buy tickets at the office near the entrance. One ticket is valid for a year, so you can go back if you happen to be in town again.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

A once in a lifetime experience I had when I visited this place. This is your one the of must have to visiting place in London. This place place is full with history and every drawing on the wall has history. I would recommend to have a guided tour, inside the hall. The guided tour starts beginning of every hours. Ticket is free for the students of The University of Greenwich.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Hello for leisure and tourism and travel is completely suitable. It is advisable to come with friends and family team. I also recommend buying excursions. As for me, it is very, very beautiful here, the buildings have been preserved quite well. You are immersed in the world of history and legends. You can tell a lot, but the best is to see once
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

The painted hall is a great visit for everyone who love art and history. The paintings are very well preserved and holds a lot of history. Make sure you get the audio guide or join the talks given by the staff explaining the paintings. Also included is the tour of the old royal Naval college and the builds surrounding it.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Visited this wonderful space last Wednesday. We were very fortunate to visit when an amazing volunteer guide was on his shift. He gave us an extremely good informative ,entertaining and fact filled tour of the Painted hall. He pointed out some of the discretely hidden meanings of Sir James Thornhill's extraordinary paintings. Thank Peter and you will be welcome at the Mary Rose Museum any time.

It took over 19 years to complete and you can see why. Visually spectacular, the hall’s paintings are a depiction of Britain’s history over a 300 year period. It’s truly stunning when you walk around and we were lucky enough to go during the museum of the moon exhibition which added to the ambience.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

We visited on a first Saturday, which offers the discounted entry price of £5. The hall is spectacular and the audio tour is top notch. There are also plenty of excellent guided tours included. I especially loved the benches that were provided so visitors could lie down to look up at the ceiling.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

It was very interesting to look at, but not worth the money. It was too expensive for only a few mins there. The children got bored really quickly after seeing the moon display. There's nothing else to do unless you want to go in other parts but have to pay for each exhibition.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

The experience was super nice. i used the student option of entering and got a ticket for cheap price. Also, they issued a card that we can use it and visit again. The hall has amazing arts and normally this indicates as the UK's Sistine Chapel. Love the interiors.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Amazing building and the history is so fascinating - you must take the tour!!! We were lucky enough to have the famous Jim Morrison as your guide - the best person to tell you all about the part this building played in British history and also in all the famous films and series made there!!
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

I came here for the exhibition of moon. It is very beautiful and really worth to visit! One ticket cost £8 for adults and £7 for students. The price is very reasonable and I really enjoyed visiting the exhibition! The place is very beautiful with a huge and gorgeous moon. ✨ Really get a great time with my friends here! Highly recommended.

£5 entry first sunday or £12.50 Annual Pass. The ticket includes Old Chapel and Skittle Alley. We didnt know the tour was included with the ticket, staff didnt inform us. Breathtaking masterpiece ceiling. Museum of Moon installation was spectacular.
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

I came here twice. First time during the moon expo which was pretty impressive. Next time the moon wasn't here and I felt that the price was a bit high for the single room. It's beautiful! No questioning that but for the price there are bigger museums to spend more time. Definitely make the most of this talking the included guided tour.

Excellent paintings on roof and wall. In the past the whole place was well lit but this visit the hall is rather dark. Lord Nelson exhibition room is good and with new exhibits. The table which held Lord Nelson coffin was no longer on display.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

A beautiful historic British landmark surrounded by architectural brilliance. The artwork is stunning and the Painted Hall regularly holds exhibitions and ad-hoc contemporary artwork. The painted walls are masterpieces. We last visited the Museum of the Moon. The images and video speak for themselves. Great for kids of all ages too.

I was extremely disappointed tbh! I visited before the renovations and was captivated! The whole ambience of the place has been removed and the officers mess is now a skittle alley! No concessions for OAPs but you can use your ticket to return several times in the year. Why would anyone want to come back again!! Very disappointed.

King William is depicted triumphantly treading on the head of King Louis XIV of France on the incredible ceiling at the Painted Hall of the Naval College in Greenwich. There are special benches to lie on to admire the superb frescos.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

The experience would be very nice if the staff would be prepared to welcome guests and not to make them feel like some desecrators of graves. You are not allowed to do anything, the staff would come to you every 5 mins.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

I loved the place. The painted hall is beautiful and much less crowded than other touristic places. But I enjoyed also very much the place along the Thames River, beautiful pictures to take, quiet place, and you can have a drink at the Trafalgar tavern terrace afterwards. A refreshing experience, really!

Please book your visit in advance. So that you don’t have to wait. This is a must go place in Greenwhich. The painting is just breathtaking. And you may lie down on the big chair to have a good look at the ceiling.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Amazing, the paintings are fantastic. There was the Moon exhibition which added more to the experience. We had the best time with friends came from abroad. Perfect choice for a not overcrowded tourist attraction.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Spectacular place, absolutely worth your time & money. Do take advantage of the tours, because they are very good and they reveal lots of information which you wouldn't find otherwise. Best!! Highly recommended!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Stunning. If at the exit they had asked me to pay again I would have. It is worth all the money and the time one spends there. The guide was better than a west end actress. She told us about the hall with such passion and in such an involving way that I felt part part of the story. Thank you

Absolutely stunning place. The paintwork is phenomenal. We had a 30min talk with a volunteer guide who talked us through the paintings and about the artists involved. It was very interesting!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

This place is gorgeous. I'd recommend to join one of the hourly talks/guides in the Painted Hall, as they provide a lot of information and history about these incredible paintings.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Much more impressive than I was expecting. Take the opportunity to lie on one of the benches on a rainy day and get lost in the artwork. The chapel is also worth a visit and the cafe had a lovely relaxed atmosphere.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait

Very nice, but it’s very quick to visit the first Sunday of the month is 5£ They do free tours that last 45mins Worth checking if you are interested in history and story
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

All the times I've been to Greenwich and did not know this was here. Wonderful painted hall with so much history it's a must see if your visiting London and not expensive.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Omg...I never expected to be so impressed with this beautiful Hall. In truth, I was sightseeing round Greenwich & decided to pop in to the Painted Hall, unaware of what it actually was. Hence I was taken back by its magnificence. Well worth a visit.

Amazing hall to visit. The art is stunning and I love that a guided visual tour is included in the ticket price. Worth the money and the ticket lasts a year
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
30–60 min
Reservation recommended
No

The giant paintings of walls r amazing. This place was like a hospital or after retirement center for British royal navy officers, ticket price was 15£.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
No

Exquisite painting, worth viewing, look out for the queen's(of the time) hand reaching out from under the carpet. Ask your guide for the story about this
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

We took the guided tour with Peter. Well recommended. Very informative. I have been to London often but learned new things about the history of the city.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Amazing experience with the visit...but tickets are pricey/expensive as there is only one hall to see nothing else. Hope they reduce the ticket rates.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Amazing place. We travelled down from London on the river. Which was an enjoyable hour or so, going past Tower Bridge Canary Wharf, etc. On the way to Greenwich. An amazing bit of british history. Would recomend it on a warm day.

Words can't do the beauty of this place justice! This was off the beaten path, but absolutely so glad we killed some time by stopping in here!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Incredible painting. The ceiling is breathtaking. You should schedule your visit for the first Sunday of the month then ticket is just £5
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

All I can say is Beautiful! There are large benches in the middle where you can actually lie on your back to see the ceiling.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Really recommend a visit. The guided tour by Thomas was brilliant, so informative, completely bringing the scenes to life.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Amazing place to visit. Jim was an outstanding guide and made the experience even better! Highly recommended!!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Once a year absolute treat to have a meal in this wonderful historical venue. Magical night. Excellent service and food outstanding seroundings
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait

Fascinating paintings! Included in the price is an audioguide and multiple tours on the Royal Naval College.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Beautiful space. Interesting history, tour is included with entrance and I would recommend taking it.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Beautiful paintings. Ther is a huge amount of detail, so pay for the half hour guided tour to get it all.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Stunning building and stunning artwork. However a very short trip even looking at the history on its own
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

I caught myself in the self reflection mode when entering the building. A nice monument and work of art.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

If you buy a ticket and register online you can visit for free for a year. The ceiling is very detailed.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Magnificent. The guided tour is a must as you get quite a bit of interesting facts and information.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Brilliant tour guide called Peter gave us so much interesting information. Highly recommend.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

It was great photogenic location. I has history room too if ur interested in it's history.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
10–30 min
Reservation recommended
No

Museum of the moon - book in advance online to avoid disappointments. It's worth the money.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Very interesting. Everything was explained by an excellent Guide. Afternoon tea delicious.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Such a stunning venue to visit and the current exhibition of the moon is amazing.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
1 hr+
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Love this space History and Beauty combined with plenty of staff to help if needed
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Such breathtaking paintings! We visited when the moon exhibition was on so it was busier than normal. Staff were all friendly and theres a cafe and shop onsite too!

Lots to see with only a little time. You could likely spend a day in this area.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

The Moon was in display at the magnificent painted hall. The Moon was stunning. The paintings are remarkable.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
10–30 min

Stunning place, definetely worth to visit. Aldo neibourhood is very special.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Breathtaking. And the audio guide explains everything amazingly well
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
30–60 min
Reservation recommended
No

It's like the British Sistine Chapel and it has great symbolism
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Lovely if you like history, nice staff full of info to help you
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
No

Impressive, the tour guide was lovely and we learned quite a lot.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Expensive to enter no discount for seniors but interesting.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

The price is way to high,£15 for one large room.The room in question is spectacular a high painted ceiling it takes all five minutes to walk through

Went on a group visit and we had Peter as our guide, fantastic
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

My new favourite place in London! Another great piece of history accessible to the public thanks to the great storytelling of its amazing hosts!

Beautiful place to visit. I've never seen a painted ceiling such as this one before.
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

After renovation the Painted Hall is even more stunning.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Beautiful place though it's not free but worth visiting
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Wonderful experience, the painted halls themself were absolutely incredible and we visited when the moon was their
Visited on
Weekday

Definitely worth getting in early to be able to lie down and take it in peacefully. Luckily came across the first Sunday deal, $5 ticket.

Amazing place to visit. Didn't know it was there. Good tour guides. Not rushed and plenty of seats to admire the works. Nice cafe at end

Had a guided tour which gave us a brief description of of most of the paintings. Interesting and not too demanding on my concentration.

Amazing place hosting the amazing Moon exhibition
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Beautiful and touring the grounds is fantastic
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Beautiful beautiful place. I cant say enough.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Lying down with an audio guide, looking up at the painted ceiling and listening to the stories in the picture was so relaxing.

Lovely experience, excellent tour guide.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Quite expensive for what you get.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

A very interesting historical location.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

A few free sections, but the impressive stuff is for ticket holders only. Has a Cafeteria/Gift Shop. Worth a peek …

Great to visit if you're in Greenwich.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Very good tour and amazing paintings!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

The hall is beautiful and totally worth visiting. I visited the painted hall while the moon museum installation was there.

Amazing paintings.. worth visiting
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Beautiful fine art! A must see!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Beautiful painted ceiling
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes