Blockbuster Film Tour at the Old Royal Naval College (including the Painted Hall)
Find out what makes the Old Royal Naval College “one of the most popular film locations in the world” and some trade secrets as to how it is done.
The site has nearly 100 years of filming history and this tour will not only take you outside around the iconic riverside grounds, but also inside to see the magnificent Painted Hall where so many famous scenes have been filmed and into the exquisite Chapel, the star of a fair few stunning wedding scenes.
Highlights
- Live guided Blockbuster Film Tour at the Old Royal Naval College
- See the setting of some of the most memorable scenes in major film and TV productions
- Hear some intriguing ‘behind the scenes’ tales
- Explore the breath-taking 17th century Painted Hall (known as the UK’s Sistine Chapel)
- Glimpse at the remains of Greenwich Palace, only unearthed in 2016, the place where Henry VIII and Elizabeth I were born
- Try your hand at one of the last remaining Victorian Skittle Alleys
What's included
- 60-minute live guided Blockbuster Film Tour at the Old Royal Naval College
- Entry to the Painted Hall, Nelson Room, Chapel and Victorian Skittle Alley
- Painted Hall multimedia guide (available in 7 languages)
- Option to join a '600 years of History’ tour with expert guide
- Transportation
Overview
Blockbuster Film Tour
Step into the mesmerising world of Hollywood magic in this fascinating tour of what’s been called “the most popular filming location in the world.” (Empire magazine).
You'll embark on a captivating journey through almost 100 years of filming, including some of the most unforgettable cinematic moments shot on our picturesque riverside grounds and inside the awe-inspiring Painted Hall. Our knowledgeable guides will reveal the tricks of the trade and share intriguing behind-the-scenes tales that will leave you amazed.
Find out why location managers have chosen the Old Royal Naval College as the setting for some of the most memorable scenes in major film and TV productions, including The Crown, Les Misérables, Napolean, Bridgerton and many more.
Old Royal Naval College
Take time to explore the peaceful riverside location and Sir Christopher Wren’s iconic architecture. The stunning buildings and extensive grounds tell 500 years of remarkable history that lists an incredible cast of monarchs and famous British figures, from Henry VIII and Elizabeth I to Vice-Admiral Lord Nelson.
Visit ‘Britain’s Sistine Chapel’, Sir James Thornhill’s breath-taking Baroque Painted Hall and its neighbour, the glorious Chapel of St Peter and Paul. Escape the crowds and discover 40,000 square feet of awe-inspiring painted walls and ceiling.
See the reopened Nelson Room
The unique architecture of the Nelson Room has been carefully conserved, including its imposing roof lantern, monumental stonework, and Swedish marble flooring – the marble flagstones were selected by Sir Christopher Wren himself. A ‘Pepper’s Ghost’ display illuminates Nelson’s lying-in-state, while a bronze sculpture called Breaking the Line, by Antony Dufort pays tribute to the many sailors who fought at Trafalgar and later became ‘Greenwich Pensioners’ at the Royal Hospital for Seamen.
Tour Times
Thursdays and Sundays at 12.30pm and 2.30pm
Old Royal Naval College opening hours
The Painted Hall, Chapel and Visitor Centre are open daily, 10am–5pm.
The grounds are open daily 8am–11pm.
All opening times are subject to change. Please check before visiting.
Know before you go
Please present a printed copy of your voucher at the Visitor Centre at the date and time shown.
Cancellation policy
Non-refundable.
