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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 06 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Sarah Barrell

A treasured survivor of the Second World War, this towering naval warship was launched over 80 years ago, and after a career that including firing some of the first shots at the D-Day landings, her nine decks now make up one of London’s most fascinating interactive war exhibitions.

Permanently moored as a museum ship on the Thames’ Southbank at Queen’s Walk, entry offers the opportunity to climb the ladders, learn the secrets of the command room and uncover the ship’s history, from her launch on St Patrick’s Day 1938 to her 25 years active Royal Navy service and life as a London landmark for the past half-century.

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Price from: £23
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 4+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

Right on the Thames, at Queen’s Walk, the museum is well-located for easy access on foot or by public transport. The nearest station, less than 0.5 miles away is London Bridge (train and Tube); Waterloo is a two-mile walk west along the river. The nearest Thames Clipper river ferry pier is London Bridge City, 0.2 miles away.

When to do it

It’s open all year round, Wednesday to Sunday. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Early mornings, and late afternoon are the quietest times, certainly at the weekend.

Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Shangri-La at the Shard

London, United Kingdom (UK)[0.5 miles]

Housed in London’s newest landmark, the Shangri-La offers the best views in town, along with fine dining, innovative cocktails and a lofty infinity pool.

Official star rating:

CitizenM Tower of London

London, United Kingdom (UK)[0.5 miles]

An affordable design hotel overlooking the Tower of London, with pod-style rooms and a hip bar and restaurant.

Official star rating:

Batty Langley’s

London, United Kingdom (UK)[1.6 miles]

An elegantly eccentric Georgian period piece on the edge of the City of London, with decadent rooms and an under-the-radar vibe.

Official star rating:

Sea Containers London

London, United Kingdom (UK)[1.8 miles]

Right on the Thames, with views of St Pauls across the water, this cleverly-converted former shipping office has become one of the capital’s grandest and most glam hotels.

Official star rating:

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

London

Greater London, United Kingdom (UK)

World-class culture, fashion, music, food and history – and a mind-boggling array of bucket list experiences – packed into one extraordinary, incomparable destination. 

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Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first

Tower of London

London, United Kingdom (UK)[0.4 miles]

The world’s most notorious medieval fortress, rich in gruesome history dating back to the 11th century. Now home to the Crown Jewels and the enigmatic, colourful Beefeaters.

Best for ages: 4+ | £25

Borough Market

London, United Kingdom (UK)[0.7 miles]

London’s premier gastro hub, with over 100 stalls in a historic covered market, offering everything from artisan breads and cheeses to street food, hand-made chocolates and vegan cakes.

Best for ages: 8+ | Free

Shakespeare plays at The Globe

London, United Kingdom (UK)[1.1 miles]

Shakespeare’s works are brought vividly to life at this half-timbered, riverside replica of the Bard’s Elizabethan theatre. A pilgrimage for Shakespeare fans.

Best for ages: 13+ | £10 | 1-3 hours

Tate Modern

London, United Kingdom (UK)[1.2 miles]

This iconic, renovated power station on London’s South Bank showcases headline-grabbing Modern and contemporary art.

Best for ages: 18+ | Free

Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..

Exterior view of the grand building surrounding a large square
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Somerset House

London, United Kingdom (UK)[2.5 miles]

Famous for its picturesque alfresco ice rink in winter and the Edmund J Safra fountains in the summer, this elegant neoclassical building is also home to an art gallery and upscale restaurant.

Best for ages: 18+ | Free

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Exterior view of front facade with people walking in front
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SEA LIFE London Aquarium

London, United Kingdom (UK)[2.7 miles]

London’s impressive aquarium, set on the South Bank, home to hundreds of species of fish and a selection of sharks.

Best for ages: Any | £27

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