HMS Belfast — Britain’s Floating Naval Museum

A Living Story of the Sea

Moored between London Bridge and Tower Bridge, HMS Belfast is one of the most remarkable warships of the 20th century.
Launched in 1938, she served in World War II and the Korean War before becoming a museum in 1971.

Today, she stands as a floating memorial and museum — part of the Imperial War Museums (IWM) — sharing real stories of courage, engineering, and everyday naval life.

From Wartime Cruiser to Museum Landmark

Built in Belfast’s Harland & Wolff shipyard, HMS Belfast joined the Royal Navy just before WWII.
She saw action in the Arctic convoys, helped sink the German battleship Scharnhorst, and supported the D-Day landings in 1944.
Therefore, her decks carry the history of thousands who served across some of the fiercest campaigns of the century.

After retirement, she was preserved as a museum ship — a rare survivor that lets visitors experience history firsthand.

Exploring HMS Belfast
1. The Ship’s Nine Decks

Visitors can explore nine decks, from the engine rooms to the Admiral’s Bridge.
Each level reveals a different side of naval life — sleeping quarters, mess decks, gun turrets, and control rooms.
Interactive displays and audio guides bring the sailors’ voices and routines vividly to life.

2. The Gun Turrets and Bridge

Climb to the gun turrets to see the 6-inch guns that once fired on D-Day.
Then, step onto the open bridge for panoramic views of the Thames — from the Tower of London to The Shard.
It’s a striking reminder of how close London’s past and present truly are.

3. Life on Board

Through recreated scenes, you can smell the oil, hear the engines, and feel the ship’s movement.
Stories of cooks, engineers, and officers reveal the teamwork that powered Britain’s wartime fleet.
In addition, digital exhibits explore leadership, resilience, and the future of the Royal Navy.

Learn more at the HMS Belfast official website

A Symbol of Courage and Connection

HMS Belfast bridges generations — linking veterans’ memories with new audiences.
She also serves as a living classroom, hosting educational programmes about conflict, peace, and global cooperation.
Furthermore, her riverside setting makes her one of the most photogenic historic ships in the world.

Visiting HMS Belfast
How to Get There

Address: The Queen’s Walk, London SE1 2JH

By Tube: London Bridge (Northern, Jubilee lines) — 5 minutes.

By Bus: Routes 43, 47, 141, 149, 521 stop nearby.

By Train: London Bridge Station.

Opening Hours & Tickets

Open daily 10 am–6 pm. Tickets required; free entry for IWM members and under-5s.

Facilities

Café and gift shop

Audio tours in multiple languages

Step-free access to main deck areas

Family activities and education events

Nearby Attractions

Tower of London: Royal fortress and World Heritage Site.

Tower Bridge: Iconic Victorian engineering landmark.

Borough Market: Historic food market under the arches.

Southwark Cathedral: Beautiful Gothic church nearby.

Together, they form the South Bank Riverside Heritage Trail.

Why Visit HMS Belfast?

The HMS Belfast experience combines history, humanity, and breathtaking river views.
It captures the courage of those who served and the innovation that shaped naval warfare.

Whether you’re a history lover, a family visitor, or simply curious, this ship offers a unique perspective on Britain’s maritime legacy.

It’s not just a museum — it’s a living story anchored in the heart of London.