Wren 300
This year marks three hundred years since the death of Sir Christopher Wren, one of the UK’s most famed architects and the chief architect of the Old Royal Naval College. To commemorate his extraordinary legacy, we will be hosting fascinating events and activities throughout the year, alongside some of his most famous buildings, churches and palaces.
Event programme
Wren Tours
Every Thursday until September 28, 11am & 1pm, £15 (included in Painted Hall ticket)
Learn about the outstanding impact and crucial contribution Wren made to Greenwich and discover more about the man and history behind this iconic design. Book now.
Wren Studio Exhibition
From mid-April, Mezzanine Level, £3 (included in Discover Greenwich or Painted Hall ticket)
Exhibition on Wren’s architecture, including a 3D fly-through animation of the Old Royal Naval College alongside models and technical drawings by University of Greenwich Architecture students. Find out more.
Through Wren’s Eyes – Activity Booklet
On sale at our tills and shops
Learn about architect Sir Christopher Wren with a brand-new activity booklet for children aged 7+. Solve the architecture hunt, design your own Dome or scan the QR codes to discover the hidden spaces at the Old Royal Naval College.
What Legacy Now? – Photography Exhibition
Mid-June onwards, free
Wren did not simply set out to create monuments for the ages but was responding to the urgent social questions of his time. This photographic exhibition by photographer Hamish MacPherson draws attention to people continuing the different legacies of Wren. Find out more.
Wren the Courtier: Guest Lecture by Simon Thurley CBE
20 September, 6.30pm
Historian Simon Thurley will deliver a talk at the Old Royal Naval College, exploring Wren’s position within Court under King William and Queen Mary. Find out more.
Discover Wren’s Dome
This autumn
Climb the steps high inside the Chapel dome and see the inner workings of this remarkable construction and the historic turret clock. Find out more.
Wren Letter
Until January 2024, included in the Painted Hall entry ticket
A special display in the Painted Hall vestibule featuring a letter written by Wren in 1700 requesting 2,000 tonnes of Portland Stone for the building of the site, alongside information of the material and how it was transported to London. Find out more.