HMS Belfast River Thames

HMS Belfast, River Thames, London

The HMS Belfast permanently moored on the River Thames in London near Tower Bridge, is a historic warship that now serves as a museum and memorial.

Launched in 1938, this Royal Navy light cruiser played an important role in World War II and beyond, taking part in major operations such as the Arctic convoys, the D-Day landings, and the Korean War.

Armed with twelve 6-inch guns, anti-aircraft weaponry, and advanced radar for its time, the ship was a formidable force at sea. After being decommissioned in 1963, HMS Belfast was saved from scrapping and transformed into a floating museum, opening to the public in 1971 under the care of the Imperial War Museum.

Today, visitors can explore nine decks of the HMS Belfast, stepping into the boots of the sailors who lived and served aboard. From the gun turrets and engine rooms to the command bridge, the ship offers an immersive glimpse into naval history.

Exhibits showcase life at sea, from the hardships of Arctic warfare to the camaraderie of the crew in the ship's mess halls. One of the most striking features is the interactive operations room, where visitors can experience what it was like to command a warship in battle. With its imposing presence on the Thames and its rich wartime legacy, HMS Belfast remains a powerful reminder of Britain's naval history and the sacrifices of the men and women who served in the Royal Navy.