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.

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.

Ways to explore

HMS Belfast is a fixture of the London riverfront, and River Thames cruises offer premier views of the vessel. Choose between relaxed sails with afternoon tea or up the ante with a high-speed RIB ride past the warship. For a closer look, skip the lines with a prebooked admission ticket—these come highly recommended during peak times. Some city passes combine access to HMS Belfast with other top attractions such as the London Eye, while hop-on hop-off bus tours let you explore at your own pace.

Accessibility

The main deck of HMS Belfast is accessible, but there are no accessible routes below deck. There are step-free entrances, wheelchairs for loan, an accessible restroom, and an induction loop.

Age limits

The ship is recommended for children aged 7 and above.

What to pack

Pack a waterproof jacket to explore the outdoor sections of the ship.

What to wear

Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes as you’ll need to climb ladders to access parts of the ship.

Not allowed

Suitcases, large items of luggage, alcohol (except at the bar), flash photography, tripods

Amenities

Café, rooftop bar, restrooms, gift shop

Address

HMS Belfast is moored on the Thames, between Tower Bridge and London Bridge—the latter is often confused with the former. The Thames Clipper boat service stops at London Bridge City pier nearby.

Driving

Due to its riverfront location and a lack of parking, it’s not a good idea to drive to HMS Belfast. Your vehicle will also be subject to the daily Congestion Charge, so taking a taxi is much cheaper.

Public transportation

The closest tube station is London Bridge, a 10-minute walk away, on the Jubilee and Northern lines, and Southern and Thameslink trains. Bus routes 47, 343, and 381 all stop nearby—get off at the Abbots Lane or Hay’s Galleria.

Best times to visit

Visit early morning if touring the ship to avoid the crowds, or early evening for a drink on the rooftop bar to watch the sunset over the River Thames.

Best days to visit

Plan a mid-week trip, as weekends are typically busiest. The bar is open from Wednesday to Sunday.

Best months to visit

The shoulder season months of November, March, and September are typically quietest for visiting HMS Belfast.

Special events

HMS Belfast hosts special “Kip in a Ship” overnight stays, which you can book on its website.