We find the HMS Belfast anchored in the Thames next to London’s famous Tower Bridge, the only surviving ship from World War II, converted into a fascinating ship-museum that we recommend visiting.
HMS Belfast is now part of the Imperial War Museum, and inside this flagship of the British Navy we can explore each of its corners discovering all aspects of naval life. She had an important role in different operations during World War II, but perhaps highlighting the Normandy operation, one of the operations that helped end World War II, and also being important in the Korean War.
Later it remained in the service of the British Navy, until in 1971 the British authorities decided to protect it to prevent it from being dismantled and then it was opened to the public as a floating museum.
What will you find in this article?
HMS Belfast: What to see
Visiting the HMS Belfast is something that we definitely recommend, during your visit you can explore the 9 decks of the ship discovering all the nooks and crannies of this wonderful ship. As soon as you enter, I recommend that you take a free audio guide, which is available in different languages and the truth is that it is worth it, since you learn many things that you probably had not even considered before being on board this ship.
It is interesting to go down the narrow stairs and enter the huge engine room and enter the boiler room, and then walk through the narrow corridors visiting the different rooms used by the crew during long missions, including the galleys, the infirmary, the operating room, the dentist’s room, the cabins… the truth is that it is very easy to imagine and feel what the crew’s way of life was like. In addition, we can go up to the control room and sit in the captain’s chair and imagine all the decisions that were made right there and that served to write a very important page in the war history of England.
I have to say that we really liked it, and the only thing I regret is not having gone earlier.
HMS Belfast Tickets and Schedules
Hours: The HMS is open from 10 am to 5 pm (Nov – February) / 6 pm (March – October) every day of the year, except December 24, 25 and 26.
How to get there: The nearest tube station is London Bridge (zone 1 of the Northern line). From London Bridge you will see signs telling you where Tower Bridge and HMS Belfast are, and as soon as you reach the river you will see it.
Tickets: Adults £14.25, under 15s £7.25 and free entry for under 5s.