Ticketed

Essential information

Type
Talks and tours
Location
Date and times Tuesday 21 October 2025 | 6.45pm

Member Exclusive. Not a Member? Join now

2025 marks the 250th anniversary of J.M.W. Turner’s birth. In celebration of this prolific and innovative artist, Royal Museums Greenwich will unveil a new display of his largest artwork The Battle of Trafalgar at the Queen’s House.

This three-metre-wide canvas depicting the decisive victory of the British Royal Navy was commissioned by George IV for display at St James's Palace. At its first unveiling it received a mixed reception and has since been the subject of some debate and controversy. Is it Turner’s biggest failure or an unfairly maligned masterpiece?

Join us on Trafalgar Day to hear from art curator Katherine Gazzard on the history and symbolism contained within this awe-inspiring naval scene, as well as the story behind its commissioning, reception and journey to Greenwich.

Members are also invited to a private viewing of the painting in its new display before the lecture from 6.15pm. 

Not already a Member?

Join today for a host of exclusive benefits and events, including unlimited free entry to Cutty Sark, the Royal Observatory, and special exhibitions at the National Maritime Museum.

With Membership starting from as little as £65, what are you waiting for? Membership is your time to explore!

What’s on

See more Member events at Royal Museums Greenwich.

Talks and tours | Member events

Members' treasures tours

Explore the treasures of the National Maritime Museum with one of our expert guides
Friday 19 June, Saturday 18 July, Tuesday 11 August and Sunday 20 September 2026 | 11am
Free for Members
National Maritime Museum
Experiences | Member events

Members' summer party

Celebrate the summer with us in the grounds of the National Maritime Museum
Tuesday 30 June 2026 | 6.30-8.30pm
£5 per ticket
Queen's House
Workshops | Member events

Members' solar observing

Learn how to view the Sun safely using special solar telescopes with the Flamsteed Astronomy Society
Tuesday 7 July and Thursday 6 August 2026 | 6.30pm-8.30pm
Free for Members
Royal Observatory
Talks and tours | Member events

Members' lecture: The aristocrat, the able seaman and the tragedy of Titanic

Join writer Angela Young as she tells the story of two courageous Titanic survivors
Tuesday 21 July | 6.30-7.30pm
Free for Members
National Maritime Museum
Family fun | Member events

Discover our Ocean Map

Explore our Ocean Map with a curator in this event for children
Tuesday 11 and Tuesday 18 August 2026 | 10.30-11am
Free for Members
National Maritime Museum
Family fun | Member events

Members' craft workshop

Join us for exclusive craft workshops, just for Members
Saturday 12 September and Saturday 21 November 2026 | 10.30am-12.30pm and 1.30-3.30pm
Free for Members
National Maritime Museum
Talks and tours | Member events

Members' lecture: the most important naval officer you’ve never heard of

Join author Alan Harper as he recounts the extraordinary life of Royal Navy warrant officer Greenvile Collins, the subject of his book Master & Cartographer
Tuesday 15 September | 6.30-7.30pm
Free for Members
National Maritime Museum
Events and festivals

Anniversary Celebration at the Queen's House

Ten years on from the major reopening of the Queen's House, come and celebrate the making of a 'House of Delights' for the 21st century with a special programme of events
Thursday 8 October, Saturday 10 October, Sunday 11 October and Thursday 22 October 2026 | Various times
Tickets from £0-£40
Queen's House
Events and festivals | Museum Lates

In conversation with Richard Wright: celebrating 10 years of the Great Hall ceiling

Hear first-hand about the ideas, craftsmanship, and legacy behind this spectacular ceiling installation
Thursday 22 October 2026 | Doors open at 6.30pm | In conversation at 7pm
Adult £25 | Students £22.50
Queen's House