Tour the Painted Hall, Estate & a Taster Tray of Local Beers

Enjoy the captivating history and cultural heritage of Greenwich, as you embark on a remarkable tour that seamlessly combines the grandeur of the Painted Hall with the flavors of the region’s burgeoning craft beer scene. This unique experience offers visitors a chance to explore the rich tapestry of this UNESCO World Heritage site, uncovering its architectural marvels and architectural wonders, while indulging in a curated tasting of locally-brewed beers that showcase the area’s brewing prowess. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a beer connoisseur, or simply seeking a memorable day out, this tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the enduring legacy of Greenwich.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In London.

Good To Know

• Tour the 17th-century Painted Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its baroque-style murals and immersive historical experience.
• Explore the remnants of Greenwich Palace, the birthplace of King Henry VIII, which offer a glimpse into royal history.
• Enjoy a taster tray of four curated local beers, complementing the historic exploration and reflecting the blend of heritage and contemporary culture.
• Utilize the complimentary Explorer Map and accessible facilities to navigate the Old Royal Naval College grounds comfortably.
• Access multilingual multimedia guides to enhance engagement with the site’s rich history and architecture, catering to a diverse global audience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

600 Years of Historic Grandeur

The Old Royal Naval College‘s distinguished history spans over 600 years, with its iconic Painted Hall serving as the centerpiece of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Commissioned in the early 18th century, the Painted Hall took nearly two decades to complete and is renowned for its ornate, baroque-style murals that adorn the walls and ceilings.

Visitors can marvel at the sheer scale and grandeur of this architectural masterpiece, often referred to as the "UK’s Sistine Chapel."

Beyond the Painted Hall, the grounds of the Old Royal Naval College offer a wealth of historical significance, including the remains of Greenwich Palace, the birthplace of King Henry VIII.

Exploring the Painted Hall Masterpiece

Stepping into the grandeur of the Old Royal Naval College‘s Painted Hall, visitors are immediately captivated by the sheer scale and intricate beauty of this architectural marvel.

Commissioned in the early 18th century, the Painted Hall took 19 years to complete and has been dubbed the "UK’s Sistine Chapel" for its awe-inspiring ceiling murals.

Covering over 40,000 square feet, the Hall showcases the artistic genius of Sir James Thornhill, whose vibrant depictions of British history and naval prowess adorn the walls and ceilings.

Visitors can enjoy this stunning visual experience and gain a deeper appreciation for the College’s rich heritage as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Discovering Greenwich Palace Remnants

Visitors often glimpse the remains of Greenwich Palace, the former royal residence and birthplace of Henry VIII, as they explore the grounds of the Old Royal Naval College.

The palace was largely demolished in the 18th century, but some remnants still stand, offering a glimpse into its rich history. Guests can view the palace foundations and remaining structures, which provide a tangible connection to the site’s royal past.

These ruins serve as a poignant reminder of the site’s illustrious history and the significant events that unfolded within its walls centuries ago.

Exploring these remnants offers a unique opportunity to connect with the site’s storied past.

Tasting Local Brews and Heritage

Upon concluding the tour of the Painted Hall, guests can indulge in a taster tray of four expertly curated local beers.

Offering a unique opportunity to sample the flavors of the region, this experience allows visitors to explore the rich heritage and craftsmanship of the area’s brewing traditions.

The selection features a diverse range of styles, from crisp and refreshing ales to robust and complex stouts, each showcasing the skill and creativity of the local brewmasters.

This beer tasting complements the historic exploration, providing a chance to savor the blend of the Old Royal Naval College’s storied past and the vibrant present-day local culture.

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Navigating the Expansive Estate

Navigating the expansive estate of the Old Royal Naval College can be facilitated by the complimentary Explorer Map provided to all guests.

This map offers a rundown of the grounds, highlighting key landmarks and guiding visitors through the various areas of interest. From the Painted Hall, known as the "UK’s Sistine Chapel," to the Discover Greenwich Museum and Chocolate House Exhibition, the Explorer Map ensures guests can seamlessly explore the site’s rich history and diverse attractions.

With clearly marked pathways and labeled structures, the map empowers visitors to maximize their experience and uncover the hidden gems that make the Old Royal Naval College a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Multimedia Guides in 7 Languages

How accessible is the tour experience at the Old Royal Naval College?

The site offers multimedia guides available in seven languages, including English, French, Italian, Japanese, and Spanish. This ensures that visitors from diverse backgrounds can fully engage with and appreciate the rich history and architectural wonders of the Painted Hall and the broader estate.

Whether exploring the Discover Greenwich Museum or navigating the expansive grounds, these multilingual guides provide a seamless and informative experience for all.

The availability of these resources underscores the commitment of the Old Royal Naval College to making its cultural treasures accessible to a global audience.

Visitor Information and Accessibility

The Old Royal Naval College offers a range of visitor information and accessibility features to ensure an inclusive and seamless experience for all guests.

The tour meeting point is at the Visitor Centre or Painted Hall ticket desk, where visitors can present their vouchers. The site is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility requirements.

For visitors under 25 years old, age ID is recommended when purchasing alcoholic beverages from the on-site pub, which is open from 11am to 10:30pm.

Plus, the overall site navigation is aided by the provided Explorer Map.

While one previous customer review noted some confusion with the meeting point directions, the College aims to address such feedback to improve visitor experience.

Sum Up

The Painted Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers visitors a captivating blend of cultural exploration and local flavors. Guests can enjoy the stunning baroque murals, uncover the remnants of Greenwich Palace, and savor a curated taster tray of regional beers. This unique experience provides a glimpse into Greenwich’s rich heritage, making it an unforgettable day out.

You can check availability for your dates here: