History
Worth
Exploring

Getting Here

We’re in the heart of the Maritime Greenwich UNESCO World Heritage site. Just eight minutes on the train from London Bridge.
How to get here

Book For 2021

We are limiting capacity and recommend that you book in advance online to minimise queues.
Book now

Donate Now

Funding is still vital to keep our gardens, buildings and treasures maintained – please consider making a donation to support our work.

Make a donation

Welcome to the Old Royal Naval College, an extraordinary cultural destination in the heart of the Maritime Greenwich UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Reopening On 12 April

We are pleased to say that we intend to open our grounds and retail shops to visitors from Monday 12 April 2021, in line with the government and sector guidelines.

Check our News page for updates

Black Greenwich Pensioners

Between 1694 and 1869, the Old Royal Naval College was home to the Royal Hospital for Seamen. The Hospital offered board and lodging to Royal Navy personnel who had become disabled by age, injury or sickness.

The constant turnover of naval personnel in the 1700s made the Royal Navy the world’s largest employer of ‘free’ (that is not enslaved) Black labour at a time when Britain was the largest trader in human lives. These pages, based on ongoing research, introduces some of these forgotten mariners and their extraordinary journeys, sufferings and victories.

Learn more

Discover Our Stories

Explore a 360 degree virtual tour of the Painted Hall, learn to draw with children’s illustrator Nick Ellwood, and hear more about our brand new exhibition that explores the lives of Black Greenwich Pensioners.

Start exploring now

500 Years of British History

Our iconic riverside estate has five centuries of rich history linking an incredible cast of monarchs and famous British figures.

The Painted Hall is the jewel in our crown and one of London's 'hidden gems'.

Explore our story

Eat, drink, shop

Whether you wish to enjoy a leisurely lunch in the Café, a drink in the Pub or a picnic in the grounds, we have a range of food and drink options for you to choose from.

Find out more