Explore the UK's Most Filmed Heritage Location and Its Cinematic History
- Richard
- May 23
- 3 min read
Visit Greenwich, in partnership with City Cruises, has launched “Greenwich: An Unmissable Time”, a new visitor destination campaign that brings cinematic inspiration to real-life adventure. The Old Royal Naval College provided the perfect setting as it is the UK's most filmed heritage location and this year celebrates 100 years of filming.
Barrie Kelly, Chief Executive, Visit Greenwich stated: “Taking cues from VisitBritain's new screen tourism campaign, our campaign promotes Greenwich as an Unmissable place for a day out or short break, with film/tv as the leading theme. Surrounding these famous film scenes is an irresistible mix of attractions, experiences, river trips and places to eat, drink, shop, relax and stay over.”
Matthew Mees, Chief Executive at the Old Royal Naval College, said, “As the No. 1 most filmed heritage location in the UK, the Old Royal Naval College's rich history and breathtaking architecture have been inspiring filmmakers for 100 years. We are proud to be the perfect backdrop on screen, from Bond to Bridgerton and Les Misérables to The Muppets. This year, visitors to Greenwich can enjoy 'Wigs, Weddings, Powder and Palaces', a brand-new guided tour celebrating all things film and TV; and in September, we are creating a very special celebratory moment to set a new GUINNESS WORLD RECORD™ for the largest gathering of people dressed as screen characters. We can't wait for people to join in and make this a blockbuster event.”
The launch event included the first showing of the campaign promo video, starring a host of famous film characters on board City Cruises, and an immersive “Step Onto Set” doorway activation, giving guests the chance to physically walk through a stylised door and step onto the 'movie set' of Greenwich.
Arianna Scotto D'Abbusco, City Cruises Senior Marketing Manager said: “We are thrilled to partner with Visit Greenwich on this exciting campaign. City Cruises offer one of the most memorable ways to explore London's rich film and TV heritage - from the water. With panoramic views of some of the capital's most iconic filming locations, including the world-famous Old Royal Naval College, there's something for everyone to spot travelling along the River Thames. With live commentary, comfortable open-air decks, and onboard refreshments, City Cruises turn a sightseeing journey into a cinematic adventure.”
There was also the chance to use the Setjetters mobile app, the world's largest mobile database of film and TV locations, explorable through an interactive map featuring film/tv scenes, beyond the frame attractions, and nearby points of interest.
Visit Greenwich has so far added over 40 film scenes and beyond the frame listings and places of interest. Users can use the app to discover their favourite scenes, visit the scene, recreate the film moment with the in-app camera, and collect badges, as well as use it to plan a full day out exploring the area.
There was also the opportunity to experience a taste of the Old Royal College's new walking film tour “Wigs, Weddings, Powder and Palaces”. The tour offers behind-the-scenes insights on how the UNESCO site transforms into a film set and provides a fun interactive tutorial on the Victorian etiquette of using the humble fan to flirt and communicate.
As well as the 200+ productions at the Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich's screen tourism locations include the exterior of the Ranger's House as the Bridgerton home, Eltham Palace & Gardens, Greenwich Market, Greenwich Park, Royal Museums Greenwich (Cutty Sark, Queen's House, Royal Observatory, National Maritime Museum) and The O2.
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