HMS Belfast, London
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HMS Belfast - by Richard Mcall from Pixabay
Description
HMS Belfast is a light cruiser built for the Royal Navy and launched in 1938; it was named after Northern Ireland capital city. The ship struck a German mine shortly after the outbreak of WW2 late 1939 and spent 2 years undergoing repair before returning to duty in 1942. It was used to escort Artic convoys to the Soviet Union and took part in Operation Overlord in June 1944, supporting the Normandy landings. It was then involved in the Korean War in 1950-52 and finally entered reserve in 1963. The ship was finally transferred to a trust in 1971 and moored near Tower Bridge on the River Thames where she can be visited. Nine decks are open to visitors, from the top of the flag deck to under the waterline.
Access & Transport
London Bridge train and underground stations are a 5mins walk away whilst the closest bus stops are on Tooley st (200m away) and London Bridge. There is no parking in the immediate vicinity so best to come by public transport and walking from/to another activity in the area. Accessibility restrictions (to be expected on a war or sailing ship).
Instructions & Recommendations
Best to book your ticket ahead of time. This activity is best combined with Tower Bridge, The Shard (possible to go up to the observation decks) and Borough Market.
Environmental & Social
We deem this activity to be neutral from an environmental standpoint and slightly positive socially due to its educational and historical aspects.
Conclusion
HMS Belfast is a well preserved ship that has seen (very) active duty - we think anybody should think about this visit, provided it is within your budget because learning about war and the military is key for people to appreciate peace and the people who keep us safe. Most visitors should find something of interest across the various desks, if only just the narrow corridors, cramped living quarters and steep ladders.
Key positive
Informative and maintains a realistic touch of what living conditions would be like for the crew
Should be of interest to children - boys especially
Good location and makes for great pictures with Tower Bridge in the background
Key negative
Several decks are inaccessible for people with reduced mobility, hard to solve for that on a warship
Signage and guide map combination needs improvement
Suitability
Suitable for all ages in theory but older people and young children will likely face issues moving across decks. Limited access for visitors with reduced mobility
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 30m
est. visit time:1h 30m
Monday10:00 - 18:00
Tuesday10:00 - 18:00
Wednesday10:00 - 18:00
Thursday10:00 - 18:00
Friday10:00 - 18:00
Saturday10:00 - 18:00
Sunday10:00 - 18:00