NEWS: Old Royal Naval College Announces Spring Programme

This Spring visitors to the Old Royal Naval College will be able to enjoy a season of family
experiences, live music, history and outdoor theatre. Across the season, the historic site will come alive with immersive events, concerts, talks and tours as it also marks a milestone 300th anniversary of the Painted Hall.

The new Family Days invite children and adults alike to take part in creative activities inspired by the site’s heritage and stories on the third Sunday of each month. There will be activity stations throughout the Painted Hall and wider site, from sketching to dress-up to enjoy. Each Family Day is themed around ideas central to the history, heritage and stories of the Painted Hall itself – from myths and symbols, to art and
architecture – alongside prompts to celebrate its 300th anniversary,

On the 18th and 19th April, the brand new Tudor Takeover will bring the past back to life through immersive historical re-enactments where children can learn to be a knight for the day. Calligraphy workshops, period music and dance, and a spectacular Tudor royal procession across the grounds are also part of this special event.

The Three Inch Fools then return with their outdoor musical comedy King Arthur and the Holy Fail. In a thrilling quest to save his beloved realm, would-be hero Arthur steps into the light to juggle with fate, destiny and chivalry. Featuring live music and legendary laughs, this outdoor comedy is fun for all the family.

Spring will also see the return of Greenwich Dog Show on the 24th May for its fourth year. Welcoming pups, pooches and proud owners to put their best paw forward and show off their finest tricks, this joyful celebration of canine companionship always thrills. For 2026, Bridgerton’s Gracie McGonigal (Into the Woods, Bridge Theatre) will join TV Presenter Jodie McCallum as a celebrity judge.

Music will also form an important part of the season, with The BIG Sing: Spring Gospel
Concert’s feel-good concert on 25th April for an uplifting performance showcasing the power and joy of collective singing. Famous scores from blockbuster movies will fill the Chapel on 30th May, as Cinematic Sounds: An evening with Docklands Sinfonia bring musical classics to this iconic filming location.

Guided tours for a more modern lens are also regularly available with the site’s core Film Tour offering, providing a behind the scenes look at the countless iconic productions filmed at the Old Royal Naval College, from Bridgerton to Bond alike. From April, Saturdays see Wigs, Weddings, Powder and Palaces taking centre stage, where period drama lovers can follow in the footsteps of their favourite actors and actresses from Bridgerton, The Crown, Pirates of the Caribbean, Les Miserable and much more. While Sundays put the world of espionage and mystery firmly in the spotlight, with Spies, Sleuths and Superheroes – an interactive walking tour with a secret mission to crack before time runs out – inspired by the likes of Bond, Slow Horses, Sherlock and The Dark Knight. While those with an interest in the history of Gin, can partake in an exclusive tour and tasting at the on-site Greenwich Spirits, exploring the maritime connections and history of this iconic British tipple.

Meanwhile, from April the Old Royal Naval College relaunches their popular Secret Dome tours, sharing thearchitectural and historical insights of Greenwich’s iconic domes, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, and offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city below. These guided tours join the Old Royal Naval College’s ongoing 600 Years of History and Painted Hall tours, which for 2026 highlights the milestone 300th anniversary of the iconic Baroque space.