HMS Belfast
The Basics
The ship has become a fixture of the Thames landscape, with river cruises offering premier views of the vessel. For a closer look, skip the lines with a prebooked ticket, leaving plenty of time to explore the ship’s quarters, including the engine rooms, sick bays, and flag deck. Some city passes offer access toHMS Belfast along with other top city attractions, while flexible hop-on hop-off tours allow time to explore at your own pace.
HMS Belfast* is a must-see for visitors interested in Britain’s naval history and has plenty to entertain families.
Some tours include entrance fees as part of the package; otherwise, there is a charge to enter.
Deck areas are accessible for wheelchairs, with lift access from the gangway. Below deck is inaccessible due to the preserved nature of the ship.
Free handheld audio guides are available for all visitors.
How to Get There
The ship is moored on the south bank of the Thames, just a few minutes’ walk from London Bridge station. It is also easily accessed by river boat, with London Bridge City Pier next door.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
HMS Belfast is open daily throughout the year, except Christmas. The ship is popular with school trips, but you can miss the crowds with a morning or later afternoon visit. Admire panoramic views of the city from the flag deck, with winter offering a particularly festive vista.
Imperial War Museum
HMS Belfast is operated by Imperial War Museum, a museum group with five branches, two in London. The IWM London, about 2 miles (3 kilometers) fromHMS Belfast, houses a Holocaust Exhibition as well as a number of war artifacts from across the century, while the underground Churchill War Rooms on King Charles Street provide insight into wartime London.