Old Royal Naval College (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Old Royal Naval College?
What makes it 83% Kids-Friendly: Children enter free, pick up puzzle booklets, play historic skittle alley and run safely on wide lawns; baby-change, lifts and sensory backpacks help caregivers, so a 2-3-hour visit stays fun and low-stress.
Positives:
- Free entry for kids: Children 16 and under visit for free with a paying adult.
- Space to run: Wide lawns let kids burn off energy safely.
Challenges:
- Crowded mid-day: Painted Hall tours fill quickly by late morning; book ahead or arrive at opening.
- Uneven surfaces: Cobblestones and slopes are common; bring sturdy, comfortable shoes.
What is Old Royal Naval College?
- A riverside architectural ensemble in Greenwich conceived by Sir Christopher Wren as a Royal Hospital and later a Royal Naval College
- A Baroque and Neoclassical landmark comprising the Painted Hall, the King William Undercroft and the Wren-designed Chapel
- A UNESCO World Heritage site embodying Britain's maritime and naval educational heritage
What is so special about Old Royal Naval College for with kids?
- Run and picnic on the Thames-side lawns
- Explore interactive family trails under the baroque ceiling
- Play historic skittle alley free with admission
- Discover kid-friendly exhibits at Greenwich Museum
- Borrow sensory backpacks for extra hands-on fun
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: This allows time for a Painted Hall visit, outdoor play on the lawns, and a quick museum stop without tiring younger children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Old Royal Naval College
Riverside Picnic & Play:
Spread a blanket on the college lawns next to the Thames. Kids can run, kite-fly or watch boats pass.
Tip: Pack snacks or grab sandwiches nearby; choose a shaded spot before noon.
Painted Hall Family Trails:
Follow a free booklet of puzzles under Sir James Thornhill’s painted ceiling.
Tip: Pick up your booklet at the Visitor Centre and start the trail as soon as you enter.
Skittle Alley Challenge:
Play the 19th-century skittle game in the Undercroft.
Tip: It’s free with a Painted Hall ticket; form teams of two to keep kids engaged.
Discover Greenwich Museum:
Explore interactive displays about Tudor palaces and naval history.
Tip: Entry is free for under-16s; allow 30–45 minutes for hands-on exhibits.
Sensory Backpack Explorer:
Borrow backpacks filled with toys and puzzles for site-wide discovery.
Tip: Ask at the desk in the Visitor Centre; great for engaging younger children.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Old Royal Naval College
- Book online: Reserve Painted Hall tickets in advance to skip the queue.
- Arrive at opening: Get there at 10:00 to enjoy quieter galleries and lawns.
- Combine nearby sites: Walk to the Cutty Sark or Greenwich Park for a full day of family fun.
Reviews of Old Royal Naval College
Mariia Udymovych
Unreal location for a pictures taking or for a lovely walk. Availability to visit few composes for free and the mail is tickets only. Area are really massive, and you can easily spend here couple of hours.
Yun P
This review is on Painted Hall, which is a part of the college and it requires paid admission. While the paintings are astonishing and beautiful, the concurrent displays of 8 HUGE light columns and modern sculptures are literally blocking the paintings. And the changing lightings from the columns made it very hard see the original colors of the paintings. I may appreciate Peter Walker's arts in ...
jezzaftw
A gem that shouldnt be missed. Possibly one of the most artistic and beautiful buildings in London. The interior of the rooms are amazing. Its got a recreation of early bowling. There are guides of the grounds for people who pay for a ticket. Theres a very decently sized museum. Lots of other cool things to see nearby in Greenwich Well connected to public transport
Louis Lewis
An historical building in the midst of London. It was once a place where naval veterans were cared for. It now has exquisite art masterpieces upon is walls. Definitely a place you'd want to visit if you're into colonial, victorian or war history. Or simply if you have an appreciation for art.
Silvie T.
I didn't go inside the beautiful buildings, as we only walked through the park-like grounds. Like many buildings in London, they are simply stunning. It's really worth spending some time here to enjoy the beauty of London away from the hustle and bustle. A dream come true for (amateur) photographers.
When is the best time to visit Old Royal Naval College (London, United Kingdom)?
In summer, join the Golden Age of Piracy Weekend in July and school-holiday crafts. In winter, wear waterproof shoes on the lawns and head indoors early—heating keeps the Painted Hall comfortable.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Painted Hall tickets (2 adults) | GBP 35 |
| Picnic supplies | GBP 10 |
| Snacks at Undercroft café | GBP 8 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 53 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Old Royal Naval College
Address: London SE10 9NN, UK
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About Old Royal Naval College
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+44 20 8269 4799Explore Popular Things to Do
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, with kids
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