HMS Belfast

Highlights * Easy to reach from London Bridge * Perfect location on the Thames * Extremely well maintained for a historic warship * Huge amount to see and explore * Rich history throughout the ship * Fantastic views of London and the river * Mind your head and feet – plenty of hard surfaces, ladders and low doorways * Café is adequate but nothing particularly memorable * Some areas show their age, which is to be expected on a vessel of this vintage Review ★★★★★ HMS Belfast is an outstanding attraction and one of the best historic ships I have visited. Located just a short walk from London Bridge, it is perfectly positioned on the Thames with spectacular views of the London skyline throughout the visit. The ship itself is remarkably well maintained and offers an enormous amount to see. From the engine rooms and mess decks to the gun turrets and command spaces, there is history around every corner. The exhibits do an excellent job of bringing the experiences of those who served aboard to life, and it is easy to spend several hours exploring the vessel. A word of caution: this is a real warship, not a purpose-built museum. There are plenty of ladders, low doorways, bulkheads and hard surfaces to bump into, so visitors should take care as they move around the ship. The café is serviceable enough, but not really a highlight of the experience. Some areas of the ship also show signs of age and wear, though that is entirely understandable given the vessel’s history and actually adds to the sense of authenticity. Overall, HMS Belfast offers a fascinating insight into Britain’s naval history, incredible views across London, and a thoroughly immersive experience. Highly recommended for anyone with an interest in history, engineering or military heritage.
MilPoPo - a week ago

The ship is very well preserved. Being inside of a turret that fired for 2 hours straight on d day is incredible. It wasn't very crowded so I was able to take my time to stop and look at things. The audio guide was a little tricky to figure out what section of the guide went with certain parts of the ship. Overall, an incredible piece of history that is ready to get to by public transportation with a great view of tower bridge in London.
S G - a month ago

“So, first time I went to HMS Belfast, it was just me and the mates—bit of a spur-of-the-moment outing—and it was brilliant! Loads to see, and the audio tour made it even better. Fast forward to the second visit: took the kids for my son’s birthday, and it was just as fantastic. We became little explorers, had a top-notch tea and cake break, and the gift shop was a hit. Sunny day, London views—memories made. Two thumbs up!”
Scott Arnold - 3 weeks ago

Really informative and engaging place of interest. It's expensive but very much worth it. Did 95% of the audio guide and visited almost all areas and it took us 3-3.5 hours. Only constructive comment would be that visitors could benefit from clearer signage for which specific audio bite to listen to at what location, and signage and directions to the various audio themes (as it was sometimes hard to understand where to go). But overall, 100% recommend.
NCISfanwithTivafever - 2 weeks ago

What a superb preservation of the heritage of the Royal Navy. This light cruiser is literally the only cruiser (not a battleship or destroyer) from any country currently in existence that took part in a ship to ship battle in WW2. She was deep in the heat of the Battle for North Cape protecting convoys and dueling with Germany’s battle(ship) cruiser the Scharnhorst which was sunk. Visitors have free rein to roam with or without audio. Stellar photo opportunities on ship as well as river views. Some notes: a tad expensive; the security process prior to buying tickets is randomly chaotic (with your possibly being made to open bags and purses for cursory glances). You keep your bag onboard btw. On the ship, which seems to bring to life the kids in attendance as they can explore without stern taskmasters tsk tsking them, it is a big ship, and a daunting exploration. It is easy to become disoriented or to find easy exits as even the green “exit this way” signage can take 10+ minutes to guide you to the outdoors again. The ladders will be quite a challenge for those not comfortable climbing 10-15 steps of a steep descent (facing the ladder) through confined spaces. Not criticizing, not complaining, just noting logistically. Cafe and WCs on board the ship. Just want to say I feel privileged to have been able to visit this tribute to the dedication and service of the Royal Navy.
TIAC808 - 2 months ago