The Painted Hall, Old Royal Naval College, Whole Venue
King William Walk, GreenwichSouth, East 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!
If you’d like more info or have any questions, please click Send Quick Enquiry.
Capacity & Layout
Standing
up to 400
Location
Reviews
- Ben FishJanuary 2026
It was my first visit to the Old Royal Naval Collage, and it was an incredible venue for an amazing day. It was the venue for a Solomun gig and it was the perfect setting for a summer event. Well organised, and just incredible in general. Can’t wait to go back next year.
- Mariia UdymovychDecember 2025
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.
- jezzaftwNovember 2025
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
- Quentin ParsonsJanuary 2026
The painted hall is splendid but I personally did not like the cold rather sterile Chapel. The tour particularly good. The cafe nice location but seemed no proper cooked food except soup.
- Darrell DennerJanuary 2026
The Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich is one of London’s most impressive and historically rich landmarks, offering a captivating blend of architecture, heritage, and riverside beauty. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, the grand Baroque buildings are set around elegant courtyards that open directly onto the River Thames, creating a breathtaking first impression. The location alone makes it a highlight of any visit to Greenwich. Exploring the site reveals layers of British history, from its origins as a royal palace to its later role as a naval college training officers of the Royal Navy. The Painted Hall is the undisputed centrepiece, often described as the UK’s “Sistine Chapel.” Its vast ceiling and walls are covered in detailed, symbolic artwork that celebrates maritime power and royal legacy, and it is truly awe-inspiring to see in person. The Chapel of St Peter and St Paul provides a quieter, more reflective contrast with its elegant design and peaceful atmosphere. The grounds are open and welcoming, perfect for a leisurely walk or simply enjoying views across the Thames toward Canary Wharf. With free entry to much of the site and excellent visitor facilities, the Old Royal Naval College is an essential destination for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone exploring London.
