Helios Lights Up London

The Old Royal Naval College’s 2025 public programme, featuring the upcoming art installation Helios, highlights its evolving role in redefining how heritage spaces contribute to society in innovative and meaningful ways.

Through a unique blend of preservation and creativity, the visitor attraction has established itself as a space where the past and present meet, offering a dynamic and inclusive experience for all.

Over the years, the approach to heritage at the Old Royal Naval College has expanded to encompass a diverse range of year-round programming, attracting a broad audience. While its mission remains firmly rooted in conserving stories of the Royal Navy, Tudor monarchs, and Georgian life, the site also strives to enrich society by fostering a vibrant and connected community.

In recent years, the Painted Hall has emerged as a stage for cross-disciplinary collaboration, where art, architecture, and science meet. Contemporary artists and designers, including Paul Cocksedge, Luke Jerram, and Melek Zeynep Bulut, have created immersive and multi-sensory experiences that engage with the Painted Hall's heritage and grandeur. Installations such as Coalescence, Mars, and Duo have sparked curiosity and imagination, transforming the site into a space of interaction, exploration, and inspiration. Visitors of all ages are increasingly seen actively engaging—playing, sharing, and creating lasting memories. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with December marking three of the Old Royal Naval College’s highest-ever ticket sales days. Such achievements reflect the hard work of the Visitor Experience Team and others who ensure the riverside site remains a welcoming and joyful place to visit.

The next chapter in this artistic journey begins in January with the unveiling of Helios, a celestial artwork by Luke Jerram. This new installation showcases the power of collaboration in delivering extraordinary cultural experiences. As a co-commissioned project, Helios combines expertise and creativity to explore the mysteries of the Sun while celebrating the magnificence of the Painted Hall and its stories.

The Painted Hall itself, often described as the “Sistine Chapel of the UK,” is adorned with depictions of gods, monarchs, and mythological scenes. At the heart of its Baroque painted ceiling is The Triumph of

William and Mary, painted by James Thornhill between 1720 and 1727, which celebrates the accession of King William III and Queen Mary II. Apollo, the classical sun god, takes centre stage above them at the top of the painting, riding his chariot across the heavens. Nearby, astronomer, Nicolaus Copernicus is immortalised, holding a golden representation of his heliocentric Solar System, connecting Baroque art with groundbreaking scientific achievements of the time.

By intertwining history and contemporary topics such as space exploration, the Old Royal Naval College provides engaging learning opportunities for audiences of all ages. These initiatives breathe new life into the historic site, ensuring its ongoing relevance while promoting wellbeing, awe and tranquillity, offering visitors an escape from the ordinary and every day. These successes would not be possible without the vision of collaborators, the dedication of staff and volunteers, and the generosity of supporters. In a challenging time for the heritage sector, such support enables the preservation of this magnificent site and ensures its stories are shared with future generations.

The Old Royal Naval College also holds a significant place in the creative industries. In 2025, it will celebrate 100 years as a filming location, having hosted over 200 film and TV productions. From its grand facades, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, to its iconic domes and colonnades, the site continues to captivate filmmakers and storytellers from around the world.

The year ahead promises a vibrant programme of indoor and outdoor events, including a new music festival, theatre performances, and community activities. These initiatives will further galvanise the Old Royal Naval College’s place as a cherished landmark in the heart of Greenwich and London.

Looking to the future, the Old Royal Naval College remains dedicated to inspiring people, fostering innovation, and embracing creative partnerships. At its core is a commitment to preserving and celebrating its rich history while ensuring it remains relevant and accessible to all.