HMS Belfast Museums

HMS Belfast served throughout the Second World War, playing a leading part in the destruction of the battle cruiser Scharnhorst, and also the Normandy Landings. In service with the Royal Navy until 1965, she was saved for the nation in 1971 as a unique reminder of Britain's naval heritage.

After the First World War (1914-1918) a single category of cruiser emerged whose size was indicated by the size of its guns; thus, HMS Belfast is a 6-inch cruiser, designed for the protection of trade, for offensive action, and as a powerful support for amphibious operations.

In the normal course of events, her final destination would very probably have been the scrapyard. However, behind the scenes, a determined group of men led by her former captain, now Rear Admiral, Sir Morgan Morgan-Giles DSO OBE GM, decided to save her. She was brought to London and opened to the public on 21 October 1971 - Trafalgar Day.

Open daily except 24, 25 and 26 December.

1 March - 31 October:

10.00 am - 6.00 pm (last admission 5.15 pm)

1 November - 28 February:

10.00 am - 5.00 pm (last admission 4.15 pm)

Please note: children under 16 must be accompanied

by an adult. Please allow 1 - 2 hours for your visit.