Family visits
The Old Royal Naval College offers a wonderful experience for families. Discover a variety of events and activities both inside the historic buildings and around the picturesque grounds.
With expansive lawns and beautiful riverside views, our grounds are free to visit and open daily. It’s the ideal place to stroll, play, and enjoy a lunch or an ice cream in a safe, relaxing setting.
Children under 16 enjoy free entry to the Old Royal Naval College, making it an accessible destination for families.
Explore our family friendly activities below.
Important access information
Please note that the main lift to access the Painted Hall is currently out of order due to a technical fault. Visitors are welcome to leave their buggies in the buggy park at the Undercroft Cafe, or bring their buggies into the Painted Hall. A member of staff may be available to help you.
There are 7 steps to access the King William Undercroft, 20 steps to access the Lower Vestibule of the Painted Hall, 16 steps to access the Main Vestibule the Painted Hall and a further 7 steps to access the Upper Hall. Find out more.
Interact with history
The Visitor Centre features a fascinating collection of historical artefacts, film footage, and hands-on displays, including a replica of Henry VIII’s Tudor Palace and a life-size Greenwich pensioner’s room from the 1750s. Free for kids and £3 for adults (17+).
What's here
Enjoy the Painted Hall at any age
Comfortable benches in the Painted Hall invite visitors to relax and admire Sir James Thornhill’s masterpiece. Our family trail and sensory backpacks, including an interactive pack with toys, puzzles, games, and activity sheets, enhance the experience for younger guests.
See the Painted Hall
The Skittle Alley
Enjoy a game at the Skittle Alley, originally created in the 1860s for the Greenwich Pensioners. Open daily from 12pm – 3pm or join a 600 Years of History Tour.
Learn more
Family Trails
Families with children aged 5 – 12 years can request a free family booklet from the Visitor Centre to explore the Painted Hall with interactive activities.
Help us shape our family visitor experience
From better facilities to engaging experiences, we want to make every visit easy, enjoyable, and memorable.
We are looking for families from local and neighbouring areas who are happy to share their experiences, ideas, feedback and insights. The groups will be composed of adults and children, as we want to hear from your whole family. No minimum age limit, but each group must have at least one child who is 16 or under.
Get involved
Events for the whole family
We have full programme of special family events throughout the year and during school holidays. Check out our What’s On for all the latest events.
Explore events
Family friendly facilities
We offer baby changing facilities, toilets, and a lift into the King William Undercroft, where the main café and shop are located, as well as buggy parking and a lift into the Painted Hall.
Access information