HMS Belfast is one of London's most distinctive sights: a Second World War light cruiser moored permanently on the River Thames between London Bridge and Tower Bridge, now run as a floating branch of the Imperial War Museum. Painted in her wartime dazzle scheme and bristling with guns, she has been preserved as a museum ship since 1971. A visit takes you across nine decks, from the bridge and gun turrets to the cramped mess decks and engine rooms far below the waterline, making her one of the few places in the capital where you can step directly inside a working warship.
Why visit HMS Belfast
HMS Belfast is worth visiting because she is the last surviving big-gun armoured warship from the Second World War open to the public in Britain, offering a rare, immersive walk through a genuine cruiser that saw action at the Battle of North Cape and on D-Day. Few London attractions let you climb so freely through a piece of living naval history, and the riverside setting between two of the city's great bridges only adds to the appeal. For families, history enthusiasts and first-time visitors alike, she combines genuine artefacts with a self-guided route that rewards curiosity. The vessel sits among the broader cluster of capital London attractions along the South Bank, yet feels entirely her own world once you step aboard.
What to see on board
The self-guided route threads through nine decks, and the ship is designed so you can explore at your own pace. Highlights worth seeking out include:
- The main gun turrets and the chance to see how the six-inch guns were loaded and operated by their crews.
- The bridge and compass platform, where officers commanded the ship, with sweeping views back across the Thames.
- The boiler and engine rooms deep below the waterline, showing the machinery that drove the cruiser.
- The mess decks, galley and sick bay, which reveal the everyday reality of life for a crew of hundreds at sea.
- The Operations Room, recreated to capture the tension of the Battle of North Cape in December 1943.
- Interactive displays and personal accounts that trace the ship's service from the Arctic convoys to the Korean War.
How to visit
HMS Belfast is moored on the south bank of the Thames at The Queen's Walk, close to London Bridge and within sight of Tower Bridge. The nearest Underground station is London Bridge, served by the Northern and Jubilee lines, a short walk away across the river frontage. Tower Hill on the District and Circle lines is also within reach via the north bank. London Bridge mainline station and numerous river bus piers add further options for arriving by train or boat. Note that exploring the ship involves steep ladders and narrow companionways, so comfortable footwear is sensible and access to lower decks may be limited for some visitors. Tickets, opening hours and any pre-booking requirements change from time to time, so check the official Imperial War Museum website for current prices and times before you travel.
What's nearby
HMS Belfast sits at the heart of one of London's richest sightseeing stretches. Tower Bridge and the Tower of London stand just across the water, while Borough Market and Southwark Cathedral are a few minutes' stroll inland. The Shard rises directly behind the riverside, and a walk west along the South Bank leads past Shakespeare's Globe and Tate Modern. The surrounding district is one of the most rewarding parts of the city to wander; see our guide to South Bank London neighbourhoods for more, or browse other London museums within easy reach.
HMS Belfast FAQ
Is HMS Belfast free to enter?
No, HMS Belfast charges an admission fee, as it is operated as a museum ship by the Imperial War Museum. Tickets can usually be booked online in advance, which is often the most reliable way to secure entry. Prices vary, so check the official website for the latest ticket information, concessions and any membership options before your visit.
How long does a visit take?
Most visitors spend between one and a half and two and a half hours aboard, though enthusiasts can easily stay longer. The self-guided route across nine decks lets you set your own pace, lingering over the gun turrets, engine rooms and crew quarters. Allow extra time if you are visiting with children or want to read the displays in detail.
What is HMS Belfast known for?
HMS Belfast is a Royal Navy light cruiser launched in 1938 that served throughout the Second World War, taking part in the Arctic convoys, the Battle of North Cape and the D-Day landings, and later seeing action in the Korean War. She is now preserved on the Thames as a floating branch of the Imperial War Museum.
Is HMS Belfast suitable for children?
Yes, the ship is popular with families and offers plenty to capture younger imaginations, from climbing through gun turrets to exploring the engine rooms. Bear in mind there are steep ladders and confined spaces throughout, so children need supervision. The interactive displays and recreated wartime scenes help bring the history to life for all ages.
Plan your visit
Pair HMS Belfast with the rest of the riverside by browsing more London attractions, or weave her into a wider day out using our suggested London itineraries. For getting around, ticketing and travel advice, our practical London guide covers the essentials before you set off.
