I have always liked this Unesco World Heritage Site, The Old Navel College, for me standing proud at the bottom of the Royal Observatory and Greenwich Park ,you cannot marvel at its architecture. So I was very fortunate, to book a tour of one of the magnificent Wren Dome tours, and he is what we uncovered on this October day. We arrived at Greenwich train station and made our way through Greenwich town centre as it was Saturday the town was the usual hustle and bustle as you expected, we passed the famous tea clipper the Cutty Sark, we watched some Morris dancing see my picture below was quite a sight, before making our way to the Painted Hall visitor centre to check in, once we had we walked under the undercroft ,up the stairs to the chapel, we waited for our tour to start, we had to wait as the chapel was been used for a wedding which again was a bonus. After a few moments our tour guide Antonio and Janice arrived, this tour is very new so you can only go in groups of 6 people just to let you know. We then ascended up a flight of spiral stairs to different parts of the Dome, the climbing of the Dome was to celebrate the 300 year anniversary of Sir Christopher Wren Death in 1723, he lived until he died at the age 90, the feet was more as he was the only man to design a major cathedral and live to see it completed, other famous designs are the impressive St Paul’s Cathedral and Royal Hospital in Chelsea So moving on with the tour, we climbed stairs, and took loads of pictures of the exceptional views, there are some pictures below but I did take a few. Our guides went through loads of historical information and also there were ancient Graffiti hidden inside parts of the Dome Wooden infrastructure. After 45 minutes we made our decent back to where we had started the tour, finally your ticket does include a look around the impressive Painted Hall so before you leave I suggest you give it a visit. So in summary, this Wren Masterpiece just had to be visited on your bucket list, so well Dome Sir Christopher.

Walking around the Old Royal Naval College offers a captivating blend of royal history and cinematic charm. As you explore its grounds, you're immersed in centuries of maritime heritage and architectural splendour. Built as a royal palace for King Henry VIII in the 16th century, the site later became a naval hospital for Seamen. In the 19th century, the Hospital moved to a new location, and the site was repurposed as the Royal Naval College. It served this purpose until 1998, when the college closed, and the site was redeveloped into a cultural educational centre. What made the experience even more special was discovering the college's connection to the world of cinema. As a movie buff, it was a thrill to realize that these historic surroundings had served as a backdrop for some of my favourite films, including Thor: The Dark World. Walking in the footsteps of beloved characters and exploring the same courtyards and corridors seen on screen was an unforgettable experience, adding an extra layer of magic to my visit.

The Secret Dome Tour So pleased that this tour has continued this year. Initially was available last year to acknowledge 300 years since the death of Christopher Wren. Unfortunately all available tours (limited availability ) sold out quickly . Therefore was really pleased to get an opportunity to book - limited tours with only 6 people per tour. The ascent to the top is via stone and wooden stairs, in some places very narrow, but safety measures are covered re description of the tour and what is required. Good footwear is essential. Plus there are two Members that cover the tour. Isobelle was our guide, who is a volunteer and clearly very passionate about the tour . She has a vast knowledge base about the tour and its history. Hamish was the other staff member at rear to ensure no missteps and safety if the group. We were lucky only 2 in our group, although it is usually fully booked. There were 3 levels and opportunities to ask questions and take photos. It is expensive but it is an opportunity to go in the Dome and have a very unique experience and view from the Dome. I would definitely recommend and really enjoyed it. Plus you get a gift bag at the end of the tour and it covers other tours ie painted Hall and can be upgraded online to cover another visit to the Royal Naval College tours ( although this does not cover Dome Tour).

One of the most underrated London experiences with a rich and beautiful history underpinning the entire site. Absolutely beautiful. Should you get the opportunity track down a tour guide called Jim Morrison.,a gentleman and a man of boundless enthusiasm and knowledge.

What a wonderful, engaging, enlightening experience. The Secret Dome tour is well worth squeezing into the narrow, spiral steps for. A privilege to gain access to such fascinating spaces & terrific views. We learned so much about the history & architecture from superb guide, Mike. 🌟

We bought our tickets so that we could see the Painted Hall, which was exquisite with its grand paintings. It is where Nelson's body was place for viewing after his death at Trafalgar. We did our own self-guided tour, reading the plaques inside. The college is made up of large buildings designed by Christopher Wren and sits on the banks of the Thames in Greenwich.

Even reading about its history and that of the site is impressive. Originally a Palace stood here that fell into dereliction during the Civil War and was demolished in 1694. Then arose the great buildings we admire today. First as the Royal Hospital for Seamen; it ceased operations as a Hospital in 1869. Just 4 years later it was converted to a Naval College. Within are great sights, particularly the exquisite Painted Hall but also the lovely Chapel of St Peter and St Paul. It was certainly atmospheric walking along the impressive undercrofts of which there are a number. Including the Queen Mary one. After all that, a fine Café is open for replenishment and refreshments.

We were very impressed by both the building and heritage itself, but also how friendly and knowledgeable all the staff were. We did a history tour followed by the secret dome tour. Both were great but the secret dome tour has to be the highlight. Thank you Bob & Antonio for providing a fantastic experience. The painted hall and chapel are stunning