Sunrise At The Old Royal Naval College
Greenwich has always held a special place in my heart. I have been there many times over the years, but on this weekend, I decided to explore it from the north side of the Thames - a part of London I used to visit often as a child.
Last year, while out doing some street photography, a craving for pie and mash (as you do!) pulled me back to Greenwich. What I had not expected was how strongly the place would stir up memories from my childhood. Back then, weekends meant staying at my auntie’s house, running around with my cousins, and exploring parts of London I only ever saw on those treasured days off school.
One of our favourite places was the old pedestrian tunnel under the river. In the 80s it felt proper eerie - dark, echoey, and the sort of place you had only run through, never walk. We used to dare each other to make it to the other side without looking back. It was scary, exciting, and unforgettable.
So, returning to Greenwich with my camera brought all those feelings rushing back.
SETTING OUT WITH A SHOT IN MIND
I took the DLR - my favourite way to travel when I am out creating - and got off at Greenwich for a wander before heading towards the river. I already had a photograph in mind: the Old Royal Naval College at sunrise. So, I brought the full kit with me: tripod, filters, camera, and a waterproof jacket because the forecast threatened rain later in the day.
Arriving at the entrance to the tunnel, I will be honest - I was a bit hesitant about going down on my own. But once I saw a few others taking the lift, I followed along. The tunnel looked almost exactly the same as it did all those years ago. Walking through it filled me with a strange mix of nostalgia, excitement, and pride.
Crossing from the south side to the Isle of Dogs, I climbed back up to daylight and found myself beside a small riverside park. I cannot remember the name of it now, but as soon as I stepped out and looked back across the Thames, the view stopped me in my tracks.
There it was: the Old Royal Naval College, perfectly aligned with the river, just as the first light of sunrise was brushing across the tops of its historic buildings.
CAPTURING THE MOMENT
I set up quickly - tripod out, camera ready - determined to make the most of the light. The sunrise was brief but beautiful. I took my first long exposure shot and instantly felt that buzz all photographers know well. I kept shooting as the light shifted and the clouds drifted down the Thames from the east.
Eventually the morning began to wake up. Boats started to move along the river, and the clouds grew heavier. It was time to pack away - though I felt incredibly satisfied with what I had captured.
A CHANCE ENCOUNTER
As I was packing up, a man stopped to chat. Another photographer - self-taught, just like me. We talked for around twenty minutes about our travels, our experiences, and the kind of moments that keep us inspired. He told me about photographing the Rocky Mountains in Canada, and about the time he drove all the way to Stonehenge to capture the Milky Way. He even shared some great tips for gear.
It was one of those unexpected, genuine encounters that reminds you why photography is such a special community.
A PERFECT ENDING TO THE MORNING
With my memory card full and my spirits high, I made my way to Canary Wharf for a well-earned breakfast… or lunch… depending on how you look at it. And yes - I will admit it - I do love a Pret’s tea.
This trip was not just about a photograph. It was a journey through old memories, new experiences, and a reminder of why I love doing what I do. Sometimes the best images come not just from the landscape in front of you, but from the emotions tied to the places we revisit.
Sunrise at the old royal naval college Greenwich London
