Families at HMS Belfast

HMS Belfast is moored on the River Thames between London Bridge and Tower Bridge. It is easily accessible via public transport. 

See our how to get here page for more information.

Due to the nature of the ship access to some of the Upper Decks and Lower Decks is not possible for wheelchair users, and unsuitable for persons with restricted mobility. 

However, modifications have been made to the Main Deck, the Quarterdeck, Boat Deck and The Café to make them accessible to wheelchair users, and parents with prams, pushchairs, and strollers. 

See our accessibility page for more information.

To get the most out of your visit we recommend that you leave at least three hours to see everything, though many people stay for half a day or more!

Everyone is welcome at HMS Belfast. Under 5s get in for free. 

There is a minimum height restriction of 4ft for our engine rooms, however there is still plenty more to explore.

Buggies are only allowed on the main deck of the ship, but buggies can be left on the Quarter Deck when you first step on board if you want to explore more. Scooters, bikes and skateboards are not allowed. 

Baby change facilities are located nearby the Quarter Deck and in the ticket office on the quayside.

The tour takes you above and below deck, so don’t forget to pack your sun cream. If it’s raining there’s plenty of indoor areas to explore!

If you get hungry whilst on the ship, refuel in the Stokers' Café for lunch which serves a wide selection of freshly made sandwiches, soups, cakes and hot drinks. Please note, IWM cafés are cashless, and therefore will not take cash as payment.

There are also areas to sit and enjoy packed lunches around the ship.

Don't forget to pick up an audio guide at the entrance of the ship, and make sure to pick up one of our family trail guides!

It’s a good idea to wear comfy shoes - you’ll be climbing up and down ladders across nine decks.

As you need to climb ladders, we also recommended wearing shorts or trousers rather than skirts or dresses.

On a chilly day, it's best to bring layers so you can easily adjust to the temperature as it can be cold below deck!

There are two sets of toilets, one to the front of the ship and one to the back. There are also toilets in the ticket office on the quayside.

Assistance dogs are permitted on site. Owing to the nature of our sites, if you have multiple assistance dogs within your group please contact us via 020 7091 3067 or contact us to let us know in advance of your visit.

For other assistance animals please contact us via 020 7091 3067 or contact us in advance of your visit so we can make this assessment in preparation of your visit. Otherwise, you may be required to wait while an assessment is made.