There's no ship quite like HMS Belfast and we're excited to celebrate her 80th birthday this weekend!

HMS Belfast launched on 17 March 1938. In her lifetime she has faced the threat of U-boats and been blown up by a German magnetic mine, been part of Arctic convoys in freezing conditions and played a key role in the Battle of the North Cape.

No other vessel surviving in Britain today has witnessed historic events of the same magnitude.

Across the weekend of 17 - 18 March, come on board and take part in a range of free birthday activities as we mark HMS Belfast's 80th birthday in style.

Celebrate with a slice of a spectacular 9-tier birthday cake made by Great British Bake Off 2017 winner Sophie Faldo or raise a glass of complimentary rum punch in the ship's honour.*

Kids can discover how messages were sent from the ship in Signals at Sea and learn to write their names in Morse Code. Pose for a photo in our Birthday Photobooth or try on a temporary naval tattoo.

All this plus nine decks of naval history where you can discover what life was like at sea from veterans who served on board.

Book online and save 10%

* Subject to availability, arrive early to avoid disappointment

Meet the veterans

17 March

Don't miss out on the chance to meet veterans who have served on HMS Belfast from the Second World War to the Korean War and beyond. Hear their own stories on Saturday morning.

Life at sea

Try a tot of rum - while stocks last!

Did you know? The daily ration of rum for a sailor was measured as a half gill, equivalent to 1/8 pint. Enjoy rum punch on board across the weekend to mark this old naval tradition.

Raise a glass