Devonport Naval Heritage Site / Devon | Discover Britain's Museums

Devonport Naval Heritage Site and Visitor Centre

The Devonport Naval Heritage Site and Visitor Centre records the development of The Dockyard and Plymouth's pivotal role in supporting the Royal Navy through major conflicts including two World Wars.

Through its collections, interactive experiences and pictorial interpretation, the drama of the close relationship of Devonport, the Royal Navy, The Dockyard and the people of Plymouth can be explored.

New attractions now include an opportunity to explore HMS Courageous through an interactive display, while in the Age of Sail Gallery an exhibit highlights the Royal Navy's effort to stop the Slave Trade during the 19th Century.

The Heritage Site is made up of a series of historic buildings, galleries and exhibits. The Old Fire Station (1851) contains "The Age of Sail Gallery" and highlights the sailing navy and wooden shipbuilding in Devonport and the new Paul Santillo Gallery.

The 18th Century Dockyard Superintendent's and Pay Office contain the core of the Heritage Centre's collection in five galleries. The Warspite Gallery outlines the transition of naval ships from wood to steel and sail to steam and includes the story of the battleship HMS Warspite, built in Devonport between 1913 and 1915.

The Devonport Gallery explores the Dockyard, the Royal Navy and the local area through 2 World Wars, highlighting the clash of the Battlefleets at the Battle of Jutland.

The Courageous Gallery concentrates on the Royal Navy's Submarine Service and the retired Cold War submarine, HMS Courageous, and includes a hands-on, fully operational, submarine periscope, giving a clear view of ships going about their business in the Hamoaze.

Victualling through the Ages explores supplying the Fleet with food and drink, including Rum! It also highlights the importance of the Royal William Victualling Yard (1835-1992) whilst Uniform through the Ages houses a comprehensive collection of naval uniforms from Admiral to Able Seaman and Wren and the Royal Marines.

Following changes to the secure boundary of the Naval Base, the Heritage Centre now stands outside this boundary and so booking in advance for entry is no longer required. The Heritage Centre offers free admission with donations welcome, with free parking also available on the site. There are also opportunities for special interest and organised groups to visit the Heritage Centre outside the normal opening hours for pre-arranged guided tours.