Royal Naval College
This new ‘University of the Navy’ taught officers the seamanship skills needed for an era when steam power was replacing sail. It quickly became the most highly rated naval officers’ training college in Europe, earning a reputation for academic rigour. Courses included navigation, naval history and mathematics, with new courses added as technologies developed.
Who trained here?
The Royal Naval College provided state-of-the-art training for around 27,000 promising officers from Britain and beyond as the Navy made the transition from sail to steam power.
In 1939, with the start of World War II, women were able to join the newly formed Women’s Royal Naval Service and were trained at the Royal Naval College.
International students
Much of China’s navy throughout the twentieth century was built by graduates of the Royal Naval College – first by figures such as Yan Fu at the end of the Imperial dynasty, and then in Communist China by students who had fought alongside the Allies in World War II.
Life at the Royal Naval College
This ‘University of the Navy’ equipped officers with the skills required for the modern age of seamanship – an era when steam power replaced the sail.
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The Women's Royal Naval Service (WRNS)
The first female students, known as ‘Wrens’ were admitted in 1939. Over 8,000 Wrens trained here during World War II with roles including Radio Operators, Meteorologists and Bomb Markers.
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HRH Prince Philip
The Duke of Edinburgh was made Baron Greenwich of the Royal Borough of Greenwich in 1947 and had a longstanding relationship with the Royal Navy.
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What happened to The Royal Naval College?
In 1983 the Government decided to amalgamate the training of armed forces and the Navy vacated the premises in 1997.
The Greenwich Foundation, an independent charity, was established to conserve the site for present and future generations, and create enjoyment, learning and unique cultural experiences for everyone.
Find out moreA Secret Nuclear Reactor in the Heart of Greenwich
The site was equipped with its own miniature nuclear reactor, known as JASON to train officers in operations on-board nuclear submarines.
Find out moreNina Wilkin Doodle-HMS Hornet
Nina Wilkin was a Wren who trained at Greenwich and served in the Second World War.
From witnessing a devastating torpedo explosion to helping prepare for the D-Day invasion, her journey took her from England to Sri Lanka in support of the war effort.
Christmas traditions at the Royal Naval College
Christmas at the Royal Naval College was quite special. Discover how the Navy used to celebrate while they were stationed at Greenwich.
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