Old Royal Naval College grounds & Chapel
england's grandest free courtyard
Wren's riverside Baroque masterpiece in Greenwich, where the grand grounds and the stunning chapel are free to explore.
Free to visit · Greenwich · Cutty Sark (DLR) · SE10 9NN
Opening: Grounds daily · chapel most days, check times
Christopher Wren designed the Old Royal Naval College as a home for retired sailors, and it is one of the most magnificent groups of buildings in Britain, a symmetrical Baroque set piece framing a view from the river up to the Queen's House and the hill beyond. Walking the grounds is free, and they are spectacular.
The famous Painted Hall, sometimes called Britain's Sistine Chapel, now charges admission, but the equally beautiful chapel across the courtyard is free to enter, a cool elegant space of pale plasterwork and a soaring ceiling. Sit a while and you have one of Greenwich's quiet treasures to yourself.
Around you the grounds double as a film set, regularly standing in for period London on screen, and the river path runs right alongside. With the Cutty Sark, the market and Greenwich Park all a short walk away, the free grounds make the perfect anchor for a day out.
Getting there: By the river in Greenwich, a couple of minutes from Cutty Sark DLR.
Best time to go: A bright day to enjoy the riverside symmetry, with the chapel as a calm interior stop.
Insider tip: The Painted Hall charges, but the chapel opposite is free and almost as breathtaking, so head there. Stand on the central axis by the river for the classic view up to the Queen's House and the Royal Observatory on the hill.
Official site: https://www.ornc.org
Free things to do in London · London Free Guide