HMS Belfast is a cruiser.

She was launched in March 1938 and served throughout the Second World War, playing a leading part in the destruction of the German battle cruiser Scharnhorst at the Battle of North Cape and in the Normandy Landings.

After the war, she supported United Nations forces in Korea and remained in service with the Royal Navy until 1965.

In 1971 she was saved for the nation as a unique and historic reminder of Britain’s naval heritage in the first half of the twentieth century.

These days the ship is moored just opposite the Tower of London. The boat trips organised by Languages Plus pass by this relic of World War Two on the way to Westminster Pier.