Visit HMS Belfast: A Glimpse into Naval History in London

Overview

HMS Belfast, a remarkable naval vessel of World War II, is an unmissable attraction in London. This iconic light cruiser provides visitors with a unique opportunity to delve into the life aboard a warship. The ship played a crucial role in significant naval battles, including the incursions during D-Day and various peacekeeping missions. Since 1971, HMS Belfast has been permanently moored along the Thames, serving as a public museum where families can explore five expansive decks and interactive exhibitions. Children and adults alike can experience what life was like as a sailor through engaging activities like the Gun turret and tours of the operations room. Open daily from 10 am to 6 pm, HMS Belfast also features The Walrus Café for refreshments and a shop for educational resources, souvenirs, and gifts. Visit this historic vessel for an unforgettable educational experience!

Photo of HMS Belfast
Photo of HMS Belfast
Photo of HMS Belfast
Opening hours
  • Sunday 10:00 - 17:00
  • Monday 10:00 - 17:00
  • Tuesday 10:00 - 17:00
  • Wednesday 10:00 - 17:00
  • Thursday 10:00 - 17:00
  • Friday 10:00 - 17:00
  • Saturday 10:00 - 17:00

Open 24/7

Contact Info
  • AddressThe Queen's Walk, London SE1 2JH, UK
  • Phone+44 20 7940 6300

Reviews

Charlotte Anderson
United Kingdom
5
Had a delightful experience visiting HMS Belfast. We arrived on a weekday in the new year, and it was pleasantly quiet. Buying tickets in advance was a great choice as there was no waiting in line. There’s a substantial amount to see and read, allowing for exploration on every floor. We spent about 4 hours there. We participated in an informative talk about the royal marines, which was fascinating. This is a fantastic outing suitable for all ages! I highly recommend it.
Robert
United Kingdom
5
We visited HMS Belfast on a weekday as it opened and there was no wait at all—definitely the best time to go, as it wasn’t overcrowded. There are discounts available for concessions, and we spent approximately 2 hours exploring the ship, which included listening to the audio guide at all the prompts. The ship offers plenty of restrooms, a café, and seating areas. It’s a bit easy to get lost while exploring, but numerous volunteers are available to help. I thoroughly enjoyed my time here and recommend it to anyone interested in history.
Luis Mendez
United Kingdom
5
Incredibly interesting! I suggest going with at least 2-3 hours to spare before closing to fully enjoy the visit. If you have interests in history, navy, or engineering, this place is fantastic. The ship is very well preserved and gives insight into the lives of its crew when they were in service; the staff are friendly and supportive. You can also enjoy wonderful views of the city from the flying bridge, especially around sunset. You’ll find it hard to imagine the life of the crewmen onboard, though the cat seems to be the only one fully enjoying it. I highly recommend it.
Emily
United Kingdom
5
This was my first visit, and I had an amazing time! The ship is remarkable, filled with history delivered excellently through the audio guide, with the help of volunteers and informative videos as you navigate around the ship. It’s very moving to reflect on the many people who served onboard, what they did, and how they lived. I highly recommend it for individuals of all ages (but be mindful of mobility issues, as many ladders must be climbed throughout the decks).
Daniel Kaczynski
United Kingdom
5
I visited HMS Belfast with my 8-year-old son, and we both had a fantastic time! The ship is rich in history, and the presentation makes it engaging for children and adults alike. Exploring the narrow passageways, crew quarters, and gun turrets gave us a real sense of life aboard. The staff (possibly volunteers) were very helpful and knowledgeable, enhancing our visit. If you are in London with kids, it’s an essential stop! It’s educational and truly an adventure. Highly recommend!