HMS Caroline: Belfast’s Historic Floating Warship Museum
Step aboard HMS Caroline, Belfast’s historic WWI light cruiser, and explore a century of naval history in a fully restored floating museum.
HMS Caroline is a meticulously restored First World War light cruiser moored in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter. As the last surviving ship from the Battle of Jutland and the second-oldest Royal Navy vessel after HMS Victory, it offers visitors an immersive journey through naval history. Explore authentic living quarters, engine rooms, and interactive exhibits that bring to life over a century of maritime heritage, from WWI battles to WWII naval headquarters and Cold War training.
A brief summary to HMS Caroline
- Alexandra Dock, Queens Rd, Belfast, BT3 9DT, GB
- +442890454484
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes as exploring the ship involves walking through narrow and uneven historic spaces.
- Visit the Virtual Access Suite for an interactive experience of hidden ship areas and the Virtual Bridge.
- Check guided tour times to benefit from expert insights and stories that enrich your visit.
- The Mess Deck Café offers refreshments in a unique naval setting—perfect for a break after exploring.
- Be mindful of tidal changes affecting the dockside ramp gradient, which can be steep at high tide.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take the Metro bus service from Belfast City Centre to the Titanic Quarter, with stops near Alexandra Dock. The journey typically takes 15-25 minutes, with frequent departures throughout the day. A single fare costs around £2.50. Note that service frequency may reduce on weekends and public holidays.
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Car
Driving to HMS Caroline is convenient with free parking available onsite at Alexandra Dock. From central Belfast, the trip takes approximately 10 minutes via Queens Road. Parking is ample but can be busy during peak tourist seasons. Accessibility ramps are available at the dockside.
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Walking
For a scenic route, walk the Maritime Mile from Belfast City Centre, passing landmarks like the Big Fish and Belfast Marina. The walk is about 30 minutes on mostly flat terrain, suitable for most visitors, though some areas may be uneven near the dock.
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Bicycle
Use the Belfast Bike scheme to cycle to HMS Caroline via the Maritime Mile. Bike racks are available near the dock. The route is flat and enjoyable, taking about 15 minutes from the city centre. Helmets and safety gear are recommended.
HMS Caroline location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about HMS Caroline
A Living Relic of Naval Warfare
HMS Caroline is a remarkable survivor from the First World War, built in 1914 and launched by Cammell Laird in Birkenhead. She served with distinction in the Grand Fleet, notably participating in the Battle of Jutland in 1916, the largest naval battle of the war. Uniquely, she is the last remaining British light cruiser from that era still afloat, making her an invaluable link to early 20th-century naval history. After her frontline service, Caroline transitioned to various roles including as a headquarters ship during the Second World War and later as a training vessel during the Cold War, before being decommissioned in 2011.Authentic Restoration and Immersive Experience
Today, HMS Caroline is a floating museum that has undergone extensive restoration to recreate her 1916 appearance. Visitors can explore a wide range of original and restored spaces such as the Captain’s Quarters, Royal Marines’ Mess, Seamen’s Wash, Engine Rooms, Sick Bay, and Galley Kitchen. The ship’s interiors are brought vividly to life with interactive touchscreen displays, immersive audio guides, and a powerful 11-minute film that recounts the drama of the Battle of Jutland. The Virtual Access Suite offers a modern, accessible way to explore hidden parts of the ship, while the Torpedo School exhibits naval weaponry and camouflage techniques.Setting and Surroundings in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter
Moored in Alexandra Dock along Queens Road, HMS Caroline is a prominent feature of Belfast’s historic Titanic Quarter. The ship offers commanding panoramic views over Belfast Lough and is framed by the iconic Harland & Wolff shipyard cranes, locally known as Samson and Goliath. The dockside location ties the vessel closely to Belfast’s rich maritime heritage, complementing nearby attractions linked to shipbuilding and naval history. The site is accessible via ramps and lifts, with some limitations due to the ship’s historic structure and tidal dockside ramp gradients.Engaging Activities and Visitor Facilities
Visitors can engage with the ship’s history through hands-on activities such as naval signalling, code breaking, and exploring the Virtual Bridge where you can ‘take control’ of HMS Caroline. The Mess Deck Café, styled after a naval mess room, offers refreshments, and a gift shop provides memorabilia. The ship is family-friendly, with interactive exhibits designed to engage all ages, and excellent wheelchair access for most areas. Guided tours run regularly, enriching the experience with expert knowledge and stories of the men and women who served aboard.Historical Significance and Preservation
HMS Caroline holds national and international importance as the sole surviving vessel from the Battle of Jutland and one of the oldest Royal Navy ships. She is listed on the National Register of Historic Vessels and forms part of the National Historic Fleet. Supported by substantial heritage funding, the ship’s preservation ensures that future generations can explore and understand the naval history of the First World War, the Battle of the Atlantic, and naval training during the Cold War.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Exploring HMS Caroline is a journey back in time, offering a unique blend of authenticity, education, and interactive fun. The atmosphere aboard is evocative of life at sea over a century ago, enhanced by the ship’s preserved architecture and carefully curated exhibits. The decks, gun emplacements, and navigating bridge provide scenic views and a tactile connection to naval heritage. The experience is both contemplative and lively, appealing to history enthusiasts, families, and those interested in maritime culture.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Slipways
0.7 km
Step onto the historic Slipways where Titanic was born, amid Belfast’s maritime legacy and stunning waterfront vistas.
Titanic Hotel Belfast
0.8 km
Luxury in the heart of Titanic history: nautical-themed elegance amid Belfast's shipbuilding legacy.
The Samson & Goliath Cranes
1.0 km
Towering yellow giants of Belfast’s shipbuilding past, Samson and Goliath cranes dominate the skyline as enduring symbols of industrial heritage.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
1.9 km
A 1960s road bridge over the River Lagan, connecting central Belfast with the Titanic Quarter and offering quiet riverside views from its pedestrian walkways.
Beacon of Hope
2.0 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Albert Memorial Clock
2.0 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Numbers' Wall
2.1 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
2-6 Waring St
2.1 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Clifton Street Graveyard
2.2 km
Two centuries of Belfast's history etched in stone—where Republicans, Unionists, and ordinary citizens rest side by side.
Catalyst Arts Gallery
2.2 km
Discover contemporary art in Belfast at Catalyst Arts Gallery, a hub for innovative exhibitions and community engagement.
Mural
2.2 km
Explore Belfast's vibrant mural art scene, a colorful reflection of the city's history and culture, captivating every visitor with its rich storytelling.
Victoria Square
2.2 km
Explore Victoria Square, Belfast's premier shopping center featuring stunning architecture, diverse retail options, and delightful dining experiences.
The Dome
2.2 km
Discover the architectural marvel of The Dome in Belfast, where history and culture meet breathtaking views.
Carlisle Circus
2.3 km
A historic North Belfast traffic circus with Victorian roots and a legacy shaped by war, industry, and community life.
Spirit of Belfast
2.3 km
Explore the Spirit of Belfast, a captivating sculpture that reflects the resilient culture and rich history of this vibrant city in Northern Ireland.
Unmissable attractions to see
Titanic Distillery & Pump House
0.1 km
Discover Belfast’s historic Titanic Pumphouse reborn as a vibrant whiskey distillery blending maritime heritage with award-winning spirits.
Titanic Distillers
0.1 km
Discover Belfast’s Titanic heritage and whiskey revival at the historic Thompson Dock and Pumphouse, home to Titanic Distillers.
The Great Light, Maritime Mile
0.3 km
Discover Belfast's maritime heritage at The Great Light, a stunning landmark celebrating the city's rich shipbuilding history along The Maritime Mile.
Glass of Thrones - HMS Caroline
0.5 km
Discover the dramatic House Lannister stained glass window beside historic HMS Caroline, blending Game of Thrones lore with Belfast’s maritime heritage.
The Iron Throne - Glass of Thrones
0.5 km
Experience the iconic Iron Throne in vibrant stained glass on Belfast’s Titanic Slipways, where fantasy meets maritime history.
Harland & Wolff HQ & Drawing Offices
0.8 km
Historic Harland & Wolff HQ and Drawing Offices: birthplace of Titanic’s design and Belfast’s shipbuilding legacy.
Titanic Belfast
0.8 km
Explore the Titanic Belfast Museum: Dive into the history of the RMS Titanic and experience its remarkable legacy in an iconic setting.
Titanic experience
0.8 km
Discover the dramatic story of the Titanic where it was built, through immersive exhibits and cutting-edge technology in Belfast’s iconic waterfront landmark.
Titanic Quarter Limited
0.8 km
Explore Belfast’s Titanic Quarter: where maritime history meets vibrant urban regeneration along the scenic waterfront.
SS Nomadic
1.0 km
The last White Star Line vessel and Titanic's tender ship—a floating museum of maritime elegance and history.
Maritime Mile
1.0 km
Explore Belfast’s historic waterfront trail, where maritime heritage meets vibrant culture and iconic landmarks along the Maritime Mile.
Street Food
1.1 km
Discover vibrant fast-food flavors in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, where local heritage meets global street food culture.
Victoria Park - Belfast
1.3 km
A vibrant 60-acre park in East Belfast offering lakeside walks, sports, playgrounds, and unique planespotting near the city airport.
SoundYard - Maritime Belfast
1.3 km
Experience Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage through interactive sound and light at the striking SoundYard installation on Queen’s Quay.
W5
1.3 km
An award-winning science and discovery centre in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, where over 250 interactive exhibits spark curiosity and fun for all ages.
Essential places to dine
The Wolff Grill Restaurant
0.7 km
Refined British fine dining in the historic Titanic Hotel Belfast with scenic views and maritime heritage ambiance.
Drawing Office Two Bar
0.8 km
Historic elegance meets casual dining in the original Titanic drawing offices with a vibrant bar and all-day menu.
The Pantry at Titanic Belfast
0.8 km
Savor locally inspired dishes in a historic setting at The Pantry, Titanic Belfast’s welcoming restaurant celebrating Northern Ireland’s finest produce.
Hickson's Point
0.8 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine and vibrant culture at Hickson's Point in Belfast - your gateway to local flavors.
Novelli at City Quays
1.6 km
Stylish Mediterranean brasserie on Belfast’s waterfront with stunning harbor views and all-day dining.
Coppi Restaurant
1.9 km
Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
Buba
2.0 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Dumpling Library
2.0 km
Experience a vibrant Pan-Asian feast in Belfast’s unique Dumpling Library, where exquisite dumplings meet creative cocktails in intimate dining pods.
Mumbai 27
2.0 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
OX Belfast
2.0 km
Experience Belfast’s Michelin-starred gem offering inventive modern European tasting menus with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in an elegant setting.
Waterman Restaurant
2.0 km
Discover Waterman Restaurant, Belfast’s Michelin-recognized spot for seasonal European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with local charm.
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
2.0 km
Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
2.1 km
Discover Belfast's vibrant culinary scene at The Thirsty Goat, where delicious grilled dishes meet an extensive beverage selection.
Six By Nico Belfast
2.1 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant Six By Nico, where inventive six-course tasting menus transform culinary themes into unforgettable dining adventures.
Academy Restaurant
2.1 km
Experience the best of Modern European cuisine at Academy Restaurant in Belfast, where local ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Titanic Store
0.8 km
Discover Titanic treasures in Belfast's shipyard heart: exclusive memorabilia, local crafts, and publications that sail the story of the unsinkable ship into your hands.
Storybox
1.7 km
Discover Storybox, a creative gift shop nestled in Belfast’s historic Portview Trade Centre, where heritage meets artistry and community spirit.
Dandy Lion Shop
1.8 km
Explore the Dandy Lion Shop in Belfast for unique antiques and gifts, perfect for collectors and treasure hunters alike.
The Union Jack Shop
1.8 km
Explore a treasure trove of Unionist memorabilia at The Union Jack Shop in Belfast, celebrating British culture with a unique selection of gifts.
Art Loves at The Merchant
2.0 km
Discover a curated emporium of art-led gifts and homewares within Belfast’s iconic Merchant Hotel, celebrating creativity and craftsmanship.
Young Savage - Vintage Clothing, Records and Books
2.1 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant vintage gem offering unique clothing, rare records, and curated books in a welcoming, multi-floor cultural haven.
Urban Outfitters
2.1 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Belfast on Ann Street — where cutting-edge fashion meets creative lifestyle in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
Fiddlesticks
2.2 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and expert framing at Fiddlesticks, Belfast's gem on Belmont Road for unique souvenirs and preserved memories.
Connswater Shopping Centre
2.2 km
Discover Connswater Shopping Centre: Belfast's vibrant retail hub with diverse shops, dining options, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Born and Bred
2.2 km
Explore Born and Bred in Belfast for unique Irish gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Northern Ireland.
American Madness
2.2 km
East Belfast’s cult vintage shop for reworked Americana, denim, military surplus, and retro band and Harley-Davidson tees.
Søstrene Grene
2.2 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
House of Fraser
2.2 km
A historic Belfast department store blending fashion, beauty, and homewares in the heart of Victoria Square’s vibrant shopping scene.
Tommy Hilfiger
2.2 km
Discover classic American style with a modern twist at Tommy Hilfiger, nestled in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square shopping centre.
Fossil Store Belfast
2.2 km
Discover timeless American vintage-inspired watches and accessories in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Harland Bar
0.8 km
Elegant piano bar in Harland & Wolff's historic offices, serving Titanic-inspired cocktails amid shipyard artefacts and live music in Belfast's Titanic Quarter.
Pavilion One Bar
0.8 km
A convivial, shipyard‑inspired hotel bar with polished brass, hearty pub dishes and a relaxed atmosphere in the Titanic Hotel Belfast.
The American Bar
1.3 km
Historic Sailortown pub pouring perfect pints, live tunes, and bargain bites in Belfast's Docklands—a raw gem for locals and music seekers.
39 Gordon Street
2.0 km
Vibrant Cathedral Quarter cocktail bar pulsing with live music, craft drinks, and tasty tacos in Belfast's historic heart.
The Tipsy Bird
2.0 km
Experience Belfast's vibrant nightlife at The Tipsy Bird, where creative cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for every traveler seeking fun.
Ulster Sports Club
2.0 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Ulster Sports Club, Belfast's top sports bar, offering delicious food, live music, and an electric ambiance.
The Black Box
2.1 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
The Dark Horse
2.1 km
Quirky Cathedral Quarter pub with historic artifacts, poetic courtyard, Game of Thrones door, and superb drinks amid Belfast's cobbled charm.
Bert's Jazz Bar
2.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bert's Jazz Bar in Belfast, where live music, exceptional cocktails, and delectable cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
The Spaniard
2.1 km
A cozy, quirky pub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, famed for its lively music, extensive rum selection, and intimate atmosphere.
The National
2.1 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern Belfast buzz in this multi-bar haven for all-day eats, drinks, and live tunes on lively High Street.
The Reporter. Bar
2.1 km
A cozy, quirky, dog-friendly bar in Belfast with great bottled beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Bittles Bar
2.2 km
Discover Belfast’s iconic flatiron-shaped pub, Bittles Bar, where rich Irish culture, history, and a curated whiskey selection blend in a cozy, historic setting.
The Jailhouse
2.2 km
Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
Henry's
2.2 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Lux
2.0 km
Dive into Belfast's vibrant nightlife at Club Lux, the ultimate disco club and bar experience with electrifying music and great company.
Craics Ninety
2.0 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Ollie's Belfast
2.0 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Boombox Belfast
2.1 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Kremlin
2.1 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Anthology Ni
2.1 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Shoe Factory
2.2 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
The Art Department
2.2 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Cabaret Supper Club
2.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Thompsons Garage
2.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Voodoo
2.5 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Alibi
3.5 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
3.5 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Club Honey
4.4 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Saturday Night Nightclub
12.7 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Newtownards nightlife at Saturday Night Nightclub, where music, dancing, and social energy come alive.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Educational
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
