Stepping aboard the HMS Belfast feels like stepping straight into history. Often called ‘the most significant surviving Second World War Royal Navy ship,’ it’s easy to see why when you consider its remarkable military history.

This town-class light cruiser was built for the Royal Navy and launched on St Patrick’s day 1938. It was the first to be named after the capital city of Northern Ireland, Belfast.

After being severely damaged by a german mine at the beginning of the second World War, it returned to action in 1942 with improved equipments.

The HMS Belfast escorted Arctic convoys during 1943 and was involved in the Battle of North Cape the same year.

In June 1944, the HMS Belfast took part in operation Overlord supporting the Normandy landings.

After the HMS Belfast took part in the Korean War from 1950 to 1952 and completed several other overseas commissions, it was placed in reserve in 1963.

On October 14th, 1971, the HMS Belfast was anchored on the River Thames in London. Today, it remains docked near the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, where it serves as a museum.

Ideal place for families and history lovers!

London is full of places where the whole family can have a good time and HMS Belfast is definitely part of them. Climbing up and down the ladders there to navigate your way around all 9 decks is quite fun for everyone!

Exploring the HMS Belfast allows the visitor to understand how it was for a crew to live onboard at war and at sea.

We get up close to the real life of these men living in the warship.

My kids really enjoyed the visit, as it gave them a glimpse into the everyday lives of soldiers during wartime.

All the trades are well-depicted with life like wax models reproducing scenes from their everyday life.

Some of them being more scary than others …

Throughout the visit, many stories are shared, accompanied by photos and films, giving us a sense of the crew’s emotions – fears, challenges, and the pride they felt serving aboard the ship.

The HMS Belfast’s prime location

The HMS Belfast has a central position, which makes it ideal when visiting London. Moored on the Thames, near the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, it gives a perfect opportunity to stop by !

Many of London landmarks are nearby for you to enjoy either a cultural or entertaining visit of the capital:
– If you want to get close to some famous skyscrapers, the Shard or the Walkie Talkie are just nearby. The last one is offering a free entrance to the SkyGarden, which will leave you lasting memories!

– If you want to enjoy a great meal and drinks in a lovely place overlooking the Thames, I can recommend the Coppa Club (with its famous igloos in Winter!).

– If you’re in the mood for a walk, head along the River Thames towards London Bridge, grab a bite at Borough Market, snap some pics at the Shakespeare Globe, then check out the views from the Tate Modern’s top floors. From there, stroll across the Millennium Bridge to St. Paul’s Cathedral, one of London’s most iconic landmarks.

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I hope you enjoyed this post and found some inspiration! If you’re planning a visit to the HMS Belfast soon, I’d love to hear your thoughts on DOYOUSPEAKLONDON’s blog!

To go further:
HMS Belfast London: The Queen’s Walk, London, SE1 2JH.
Opening hours: 10am to 5pm, last entry 4pm.
Tickets: advanced booking is advised.
Transport access: the nearest train station, less than 0.5 miles away is London Bridge.
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