The London Pass Takes You to Attractions: The Old Royal Naval College, London

The Sistine Chapel in the Vatican is world-famous for the exquisite frescoes painted by Michelangelo, but the UK also has a comparable architectural masterpiece—the Painted Hall of the Old Royal Naval College in London.

Located in Greenwich, the Old Royal Naval College, with a history of over 500 years, covers 18 acres. It was once the residence of Henry VIII and Elizabeth I and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In 1694, the great British architects Christopher Wren and Nicholas Hawksmoor were commissioned to redesign the then Greenwich Palace. To protect the river views from the Queen's House, Wren ultimately designed the palace in two parts, incorporating two domes (the dome design was inspired by his own work—St Paul's Cathedral), giving the Old Royal Naval College its present appearance.

Among the buildings of the Old Royal Naval College, the most outstanding is the Painted Hall, known as the Sistine Chapel of England. Its exquisite Baroque-style frescoes were painstakingly created by the British artist Sir James Thornhill over 19 years. The ceiling features over 200 highly artistic painted figures that are incredibly lifelike—this 4,000-square-meter hall was destined to be a stunning visual feast from its unveiling.

The best way to visit is to use the interactive audio guide, listening to explanations while observing every detail of the frescoes, and feel the vivid emotions conveyed by the figures and scenes.

If your visit coincides with an exhibition at the Old Royal Naval College, you can also get a close-up look at treasure chests filled with ancient artifacts!

Address: Old Royal Naval College, King William Walk Greenwich SE10 9NN

Opening hours: Daily 10am–5pm

Ticket price: £13.5, free admission with The London Pass