1 / 3HMS Belfast
📍 Greater London
Preserved WWII Royal Navy cruiser moored on the Thames with 85% of the ship accessible. Nine decks include the players' tunnel, crew quarters, gun turrets, and interactive exhibits. Steep ladders between decks throughout.
Fascinating, especially for anyone with a grasp of naval history. Some parts of the ship are inaccessible for safety and/or conservation reasons. The audiovisual displays are excellent. The ship forms an excellent photographic platform for views of the city and the river. The volunteers are incredibly helpful. Be aware that the companionways are very steep, and need to be negotiated with caution; likewise, some of the compartments, especially the engine and boiler rooms, are incredibly cramped. Large backpacks are not a good idea, and unfortunately this also means that anyone with mobility issues is going to be severely limited as to what they can see and experience. Overall, thoroughly recommended. I believe that IWM offers a package deal on tickets for the Belfast, Duxford, and the War Rooms - if so, definitely check it out, as all of them are well worth visiting.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families with children aged 8 and above who can safely climb steep ship ladders and navigate cramped passages. The historical depth is exceptional — volunteers elevate the experience significantly over just following the map. Anyone with mobility difficulties or very young children will find large sections inaccessible.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →13,996 Google reviews
Alasdair MacLean
a month ago
“Fascinating, especially for anyone with a grasp of naval history. Some parts of the ship are inaccessible for safety and/or conservation reasons. The audiovisual displays are excellent. The ship forms an excellent photographic platform for views of the city and the river. The volunteers are incredibly helpful. Be aware that the companionways are very steep, and need to be negotiated with caution; likewise, some of the compartments, especially the engine and boiler rooms, are incredibly cramped. Large backpacks are not a good idea, and unfortunately this also means that anyone with mobility issues is going to be severely limited as to what they can see and experience. Overall, thoroughly recommended. I believe that IWM offers a package deal on tickets for the Belfast, Duxford, and the War Rooms - if so, definitely check it out, as all of them are well worth visiting.”
JoViBi
5 months ago
“Went Sunday and was amazing! Did go visit back in 2023 and missed so much. This time went earlier and with my Dad, brother. Such a beautiful ship and fascinating! Defintely worth a visit and Id even go again for the price and things to see! Managed to explore the Captains, Admirals Decks which I missed previously. The views and history were well worth the trip! My Dad and brother loved it 💜💜 Even had a bite to eat at the cafe which was well stocked with all sorts. Everyone was so helpful and an enjoyable trip in London!”
Avenues 2016
3 months ago
“I came here to have a look round. It was an incredibly moving experience to see inside the ship on which HRH Prince Phillip, Duke of Edinburgh, had served. The ship was beautifully preserved, the information provided was excellent, and the food in the café was brilliant. I would definitely bring friends for a return visit if the opportunity arose.”
Kat
2 months ago
“We visited on Friday 19th December, 2025. We booked in advance for 10:30am Overall, our visit was a great experience. It was interesting to see inside the vessel that HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, had served on. It was amazingly well preserved and reading about the history whilst exploring was fascinating. You can explore about 85% of the ship from engine rooms, gun turrets and crew quarters to the Admiral or Captain's deck. The ladders certainly made the experience more engaging, too! The cafe area was cosy and the food was great quality. The views of Tower Bridge, the Thames and other parts of the surrounding area were stunning. Unfortunately, what would otherwise have been a perfect visit was a little spoiled by two male members of staff (one volunteer wearing a red jacket & a member of security). Both were fooling around in the Captain's chair, laughing and looking at something on their phone - we were made to feel like we were intruding. Otherwise, there was an older gentleman volunteer who was extremely helpful and knowledgable.”
Reviews from Google
Overview
HMS Belfast is a preserved WWII cruiser where visitors access nine decks of authentic naval history including original crew quarters, gun emplacements, the engine room, and interactive audiovisual displays. 85% of the ship is open to visitors. Audio guides are included with admission. Knowledgeable volunteers are stationed throughout and give regular talks. The on-board cafe has river views. Steep ladders connect most decks — narrow passages throughout.



