Talk and Tour of the Painted Hall at the Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich

Image Credit: James Brittain

Known as one of the finest Baroque interiors in Europe, the Painted Hall was designed by Sir James Thornhill and painted between 1707 and 1726.

Originally created as a dining hall for naval pensioners, the space has played many roles throughout its history. In January 1806, it was the setting for the lying-in-state of Lord Nelson, while from 1824 it became the first National Gallery of Naval Art, displaying works by artists including J.M.W. Turner and Sir Joshua Reynolds. During the 20th century, it returned to use as a dining hall, this time serving trainee officers of the Royal Navy.

Following a major conservation project, the Painted Hall reopened in 2019 with restored paintings and a transformed undercroft, allowing visitors to experience the building and its history in new ways.

Our visit will be led by Hugh Broughton Architects, who worked in collaboration with Martin Ashley Architects, surveyors of the fabric, on the conservation project. The tour will offer insights into the history, conservation, and careful repair of this remarkable interior.