The Old Royal Naval College in London is looking to the year ahead with exciting events and experiences in 2024. Enjoy a romantic Valentine’s Day Afternoon Tea, exclusive tours of the iconic domes designed by Sir Christopher Wren, and get your mindful mindset on with Feel Good Friday Yoga all year round. There’s something for everyone to enjoy this year at the Old Royal Naval College, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Greenwich.
The spectacular art installation Coalescence by renowned designer Paul Cocksedge is in the Painted Hall until 4th February, with an important message about the environment and the world around us. To mark the end of the installation, chef Anthony Demetre, from Michelin starred restaurant Wild Honey St James, has curated an exclusive Fine Dining Soiree on 3rd February, with an innovative sustainable menu.
Head to the Undercroft Café with someone special this Valentine’s Week for a delicious Valentine’s Day Afternoon Tea with a romantic twist – and tour. Those tying the knot in 2024 can head to the Wedding Showcase on 24th February to find out why the Old Royal Naval College is the perfect, breathtaking venue, with multiple spaces available for hire, and the opportunity to meet the wedding team who will help you create your special day. Celebrate with an exclusive, indulgent Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea experience, which is in the Painted Hall for the first time ever. Relax for a luxurious afternoon in a stunning setting, serenaded by a live harpist while enjoying delicate finger sandwiches and a selection of scrumptious sweet treats, all served with tea of your choice.
Jump aboard Pirate Bootcamp during February half term – kids can swashbuckle the day away on 14th February, with activities a-plenty in the Visitor Centre – no landlubbers allowed! This Easter holiday families can enjoy an Easter trail around the Visitor Centre, following a special Easter booklet – with a sweet treat at the end.
The Old Royal Naval College is relaunching the popular Dome Tours just in time for Easter. Visitors can go behind-the-scenes at the Old Royal Naval College, hear intriguing tales and experience breath-taking panoramic views of London. The iconic twin Domes were designed by architect Sir Christopher Wren – this is a rare opportunity to explore inside and discover more about the history of these incredible buildings.
Throughout the year, the Old Royal Naval College hosts regular events and activities for everyone to enjoy. The last Friday of every month will see Feel Good Friday Yoga in the Painted Hall. Yogis of all levels can head to this incredible and serene setting for a session of mindful movement with Vinyasa Flow classes delivered by experts from Kindred Yoga Studio. Set-jetting film and TV buffs will love the Blockbuster Film Tours, running every weekend, stepping into the mesmerising world of movie magic. The Old Royal Naval College is one of the most popular filming locations in the world, with movies ranging from the recent Ridley Scott epic Napoleon to Skyfall, Les Misérables and Cruella filmed on location. Binge worthy TV series filmed here include Netflix hits Bridgerton – including Season 3, which is airing from May 2024 – and The Crown.
From a Tudor Palace to the centrepiece of Maritime Greenwich, join a 600 Years of History tour to find out the incredible rich history of the Old Royal Naval College. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, discover its origins as a Tudor palace favoured by Henry VIII and Elizabeth I, and its time as the Greenwich Hospital, where retired and wounded seamen who had served in the Royal Navy lived, before it became the Royal Naval College, where the first women in the Navy (WRENS) trained in the 1930s and 40s.
Visitors with kids can enjoy Family Sundays – every Sunday sees family-friendly activities, from storytelling to messy play, actors in costume and creative-making sessions. The First Sunday of every month welcomes visitors exploring London on a budget to enjoy all the benefits of the 600 Years of History and Painted Hall ticket for just £5. With storytelling for young audiences and access to the Painted Hall, expert history tours and more, this is the perfect day out for families.
The Old Royal Naval College, located on the banks of the River Thames in Greenwich, is a quick journey from central London, and easy to reach by train, bus, bike, DLR and even boat. The train from London Bridge to Greenwich takes just 8 minutes, and the DLR stops just a few minutes’ walk away. Visiting by boat along the River Thames makes a scenic and memorable visit for the whole family – take it at your own pace with a range of options – from leisurely cruises to speedy Uber boats.
