Photo of The Painted Hall, Old Royal Naval College

The Painted Hall, Old Royal Naval College

King William Walk, GreenwichSouth, London, SE10 9NN -

Up to
400 guests

About Venue

The Painted Hall, created between 1708–27 by Sir James Thornhill, is often described as ‘the Sistine Chapel of the UK’. Your wedding day is a one-of-a-kind experience that deserves a venue like no other.

The moment you enter the Painted Hall, you will know that you have found such a venue. Exquisite paintings by Sir James Thornhill soar to the lofty ceiling of a room that always inspires awe and wonder. Here in the “finest dining hall in Europe”, your wedding breakfast will feel warm and intimate, even in the midst of such grandeur.

Beyond the hall itself, there is a wealth of venue treasures to discover. The majestic vaulted Undercroft that sit beneath the buildings can be hired separately or in combination with the hall. This setting showcases a different side of the Old Royal Naval College, a unique ambience, no less impressive. The Victorian Skittle Alley is a remarkable period setting which you can hire in conjunction with the Queen Mary Undercroft, giving your guests a chance to try their hand at skittles, 19th century style! It also works perfectly as a calm space for any guest that wants a moment away from all the excitement.

Your guests will arrive via the beautiful Westgate entrance, just moments away from the Painted Hall. Alternatively, why not make your entrance as dramatic as your venue and arrive by boat?Amidst the majesty of the Painted Hall, the bride will make her way down the aisle, with all eyes on her, the centrepiece of Sir James Thornhill’s masterwork. Here a beautiful civil ceremony is conducted, lasting for around half an hour and leaving barely a dry eye in the hall!

Once you have said your “I do”s, guests are invited to take advantage of warm weather, with an al fresco drinks reception on the King William Colonnades. During the cooler months, guests will be welcomed to the Queen Mary Undercroft for their pre-dinner drinks. This is a wonderful opportunity to take photographs capturing the enchanting backdrops offered by the grounds at the Old Royal Naval College. Before long, guests will be called to dinner. On returning to the Painted Hall, you will find it transformed for your wedding breakfast and speeches. Here in the “finest dining hall in Europe”, your celebration will feel warm and intimate, even in such grand surroundings.

As the mood changes, your guests will appreciate a change in scenery, as they discover more of the Old Royal Naval College’s elegant spaces. Take to the Undercroft to cut the cake and dance the night away in atmospheric surroundings. Hire the Queen Mary and your guests can even try their hand at skittles in our refurbished Victorian Skittle Alley!

Capacity & Layout

Standing

up to 400

Location

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Reviews

Mark Roberts
August 2025
Went for an Empire of the Sun Concert and it was such a good venue, about 10 bars to choose from and numerous amount of food vendors. Grest location with stunning views especially for a Concert. It's about 10 minute walk from tube and DLR so was easy getting home after.
Nicholas Martin
September 2025
The Old Royal Naval College Located in Greenwich is one of London’s most impressive historic sites, with sweeping Baroque architecture, elegant domes, and wide courtyards opening onto the Thames. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, it exudes grandeur while maintaining a sense of calm, making it a pleasure to explore both inside and out. The Painted Hall is the highlight, often called “London’s Sistine Chapel” for its breathtaking ceiling and wall frescoes. The Chapel of St Peter and St Paul offers a quieter, equally beautiful space, and the surrounding lawns and river walkways provide a peaceful spot to soak up the atmosphere. The main buildings are open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with last entry at 4:30, while the grounds remain open until late evening. Adult admission is £17.50, with concessions available and free entry for children under sixteen when accompanied by an adult. Food options include the Undercroft Café beneath the Painted Hall, the Visitor Centre Café for coffee and snacks, and The Old Brewery pub for hearty meals and drinks, with afternoon tea available by booking. The site has a rich history spanning over six centuries. It began as the Tudor Palace of Placentia, birthplace of Henry VIII and Elizabeth I, became the Royal Hospital for Seamen in 1694, and later served as the Royal Naval College until 1998. Today, it stands as a stunning blend of art, history, and architecture, inviting visitors to linger, explore, and enjoy one of London’s finest riverside landmarks. This is a must visit , we love our visit.
stefi alvarez
September 2025
Perfect! I wish this place was more central so I could visit often, specially during the quite mornings of for my night walks. 100% worth the detour if you're a turist. Don't even get me started on the perfection of the painted hall. The gift shop is so wonderful, with so many cute bee souvenirs.