Since 1863, Dartmouth and the River Dart have been the home of initial Naval Officer training in the UK at the Britannia Royal Naval College. Today, it is the only remaining Naval College in the country, fulfilling a vital role in training naval cadets not only from Britain but those from the Commonwealth and all over the world.
The Britannia Royal Naval College sits majestically on the hill overlooking Dartmouth – its iconic architecture was designed by Sir Aston Webb and completed in 1905. Whilst closed to the public, the College runs public tours on set days throughout the year where you can view the grounds of this historic building, and tour inside its intriguing history. Public tours start from a pick-up point in Dartmouth from where visitors are taken to the college by coach for a walking tour, which lasts approximately 2 ¼ hours.
Expert resident guide Peter Jackson will lead you on a revealing voyage from past glories to the present day. Taken into the heart of the college, the tour visits the elegant Chapel, through to areas including the Quarterdeck, Parade Ground, Senior Gun Room and Britannia Heritage Museum.
On the tour you discover many features and facets of life at the college, from the earliest days through the Second World War, right up to the world class training the college delivers today.
We believe it is an essential place to visit for anybody with an interest in British history. BRNC should be a key ingredient to any visit to Devon. Tours of this iconic building offer an informative narrative allowing you to appreciate the rich history, role and relevance of this building and the naval training conducted here today, providing you with a quality, value for money, informative visit.
Adults cost £13, Children £6.50 and concessions are £11.25.Â
To book, the BA office can be contacted on 01803 677 565 or www.britanniaassociation.org.uk/tours/
