Royal Naval College
1873 the Naval College in Portsmouth acquired the buildings of the old Royal Hospital for Seamen and the Royal Naval College was born. It became the most highly rated naval training college in Europe, with a reputation for academic rigour.
Who trained here?
The Royal Naval College provided state-of-the-art training for around 27,000 promising officers from Britain and beyond as the Navy made the transition from sail to steam power.
In 1939, with the start of World War II, women were able to join the newly formed Women’s Royal Naval Service and were trained at the Royal Naval College.
International students
Much of China’s navy throughout the twentieth century was built by graduates of the Royal Naval College – first by figures such as Yan Fu at the end of the Imperial dynasty, and then in Communist China by students who had fought alongside the Allies in World War II.
What happened to The Royal Naval College?
In 1983 the Government decided to amalgamate the training of armed forces and the Navy vacated the premises in 1997.
The Greenwich Foundation, an independent charity, was established to conserve the site for present and future generations, and create enjoyment, learning and unique cultural experiences for everyone.
The Old Royal Naval College opened its doors as a visitor attraction in 1998 enabling the public to enjoy this remarkable space.

Life at the Royal Naval College
The Skittle Alley was a popular spot for student nights of bowling and drinking as it had been for the Greenwich Pensioners before them.
Find out about life at the College
The Women's Royal Naval Service (WRNS)
The first female students, known as ‘Wrens’ were admitted in 1939. Over 8,000 Wrens trained here during World War II with roles including Radio Operators, Meteorologists and Bomb Markers.
Find out more about the WRNS.Dig deeper into our story
Greenwich Palace
From 1498–1694, the site was home to Greenwich Palace, birthplace of Henry VIII and his daughters.
Find out moreRoyal Hospital
Shortly before her death in 1694, Queen Mary II commissioned the construction of a new charitable institution for the care of retired men who had served in the Royal Navy.
Find out moreToday
Today, we are one of London’s most popular attractions, welcoming over 1.2 million visitors every year.
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