The Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, London, has long captivated filmmakers with its striking architecture and versatile settings. Visitors can now go behind the scenes of this cinematic icon, exploring the grand Painted Hall and stunning Chapel that have featured in over 100 blockbuster productions. On guided tours, they’ll discover how this historic site transformed into the backdrop for acclaimed TV shows like ‘The Crown’ and ‘Bridgerton.’ Whether you’re a movie buff or simply curious about the college’s storied past, these tours offer a unique glimpse into the world of big-screen magic.
Key Points

- The Old Royal Naval College has served as the stunning backdrop for over 100 blockbuster productions, captivating filmmakers for over a century.
- Guided tours explore the college’s rich cinematic history, including insights into the filming process and the site’s iconic settings like the Painted Hall.
- The Painted Hall, with its elaborate Baroque-style ceiling painting, has been a popular filming location for its awe-inspiring and visually striking appearance.
- The college’s Chapel, known for its intricate architectural details and stained glass windows, has also been featured in acclaimed productions like Four Weddings and a Funeral.
- The Visitor Centre immerses guests in the site’s over 600-year history, highlighting its transformation into a renowned film location and its significance as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Explore the Filming History

The historic backdrop of the Old Royal Naval College has captivated filmmakers for over a century, with the site serving as the setting for more than 100 blockbuster productions.
From the iconic Painted Hall to the stunning Chapel, this UNESCO Heritage Site offers a unique filming experience that has attracted acclaimed directors and A-list actors.
Visitors can explore the college’s rich cinematic history on a guided tour, discovering how it has been transformed into Buckingham Palace in The Crown and the backdrop for the hit series Bridgerton.
Whether it’s through the audio guide or a live tour, guests can explore the fascinating stories behind the college’s on-screen appearances.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in London.
Discover the Painted Hall

One of the highlights of the guided tour is the awe-inspiring Painted Hall, a masterpiece that took 19 years to complete.
This stunning baroque-style hall features an elaborate ceiling painting that depicts the triumph of Britain’s maritime power. Visitors can marvel at the intricate details and symbolism woven throughout the vast artwork, which covers an area larger than that of the Sistine Chapel.
The tour guide provides fascinating insights into the creation and significance of this remarkable space, leaving guests with a deeper appreciation for the artistry and history that permeates the Old Royal Naval College.
A must-see for any visitor interested in exploring the building’s rich filming legacy.
Visit the Stunning Chapel

Visitors can admire the stunning Chapel, which was used as a filming location for the acclaimed romantic comedy Four Weddings and a Funeral.
This beautiful 17th-century chapel is a highlight of the tour, featuring intricate architectural details and stunning stained glass windows. Visitors can wander through the serene space, imagining the scenes that were filmed here.
The Chapel’s grand and awe-inspiring design has made it a popular choice for filmmakers, capturing the imagination of audiences around the world. Whether you’re a fan of the movies or simply appreciate fine architecture, the Chapel is a must-see destination on the Old Royal Naval College tour.
Visitor Centre’s 600-Year Story

Beyond the stunning Chapel, the Visitor Centre at the Old Royal Naval College immerses guests in over 600 years of captivating history.
Guests can explore the site’s rich past, from its origins as a palace for Henry VIII to its transformation into a renowned film location featured in numerous blockbusters.
The interactive exhibits and displays chronicle the college’s storied heritage, from its time as a naval training institution to its current status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visitors can explore the architectural and cultural significance of this iconic landmark, gaining a deeper appreciation for its enduring legacy as one of London’s most historically significant destinations.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyBackdrops for Award-Winning Shows

The Old Royal Naval College has served as the backdrop for numerous award-winning television series, including the acclaimed Netflix drama Bridgerton. The stunning architecture and picturesque grounds of the UNESCO Heritage Site have provided the perfect setting for many iconic scenes.
The college’s Painted Hall, with its intricate ceiling artwork, has appeared in the period drama, while the chapel featured prominently in the popular series. Filmmakers have long recognized the versatility of the Old Royal Naval College, using it as a stand-in for locations like Buckingham Palace in The Crown.
Visitors can explore these famous filming locations on guided tours, gaining a behind-the-scenes look at how this historic site has been transformed into the setting for award-winning television.
Tour Duration and Details

The guided tour of the Old Royal Naval College lasts approximately 1.5 hours, providing visitors with ample time to explore the site’s rich history and famous filming locations. The tour is led by a live guide, ensuring a personalized and informative experience. Plus, an audio guide is available in multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, Italian, German, Japanese, and Chinese, catering to the needs of an international audience. The site is also wheelchair accessible, making it accessible to visitors of all abilities.
| Tour Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1.5 hours |
| Tour Guide | Live guide |
| Audio Guide | Available in multiple languages |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible |
Booking Information and Availability

Tickets for the Blockbuster Film Tours at the Old Royal Naval College typically start from €19.66 per person. Visitors can easily check availability and reserve their spot online, with the option to pay later.
The tour provides an immersive experience, allowing guests to explore the iconic filming locations that have appeared in numerous award-winning productions, such as The Crown, Bridgerton, Napoleon, and Les Misérables.
The tour duration is approximately 1.5 hours and is led by a knowledgeable live guide. Audio guides are also available in multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, Italian, German, Japanese, and Chinese, making the experience accessible to a wide range of visitors.
The site is wheelchair-friendly, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive tour for all.
Accessibility and Language Options

Along With the live tour guide, visitors can access audio guides in multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, Italian, German, Japanese, and Chinese, ensuring a more inclusive and accessible experience for international guests.
The site is also wheelchair-friendly, allowing all visitors to comfortably explore the iconic filming locations.
The audio guides provide an in-depth exploration of the Painted Hall, Chapel, and Visitor Centre, enabling guests to explore the rich history and filming legacy of the Old Royal Naval College at their own pace.
This comprehensive accessibility ensures that visitors from around the world can fully enjoy the cinematic heritage of this UNESCO Heritage Site.
Recap

The Old Royal Naval College’s cinematic legacy is a must-see for film enthusiasts. Visitors can uncover the rich history behind its iconic settings, from the Painted Hall’s breathtaking baroque artwork to the stunning Chapel.
Guided tours offer a unique glimpse into the college’s transformation into the backdrops of beloved shows and blockbuster movies, making it a truly captivating destination for all.
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