Brittania Royal Naval College
On 30th September 1863, the timber warship HMS Britannia arrived in the River Dart to be moored off Sandquay. So began the association of Royal Navy Officer Training with Dartmouth. In those early days, it was very much a naval public school with young cadets arriving at thirteen and undergoing both academic study and seamanship until eighteen years old. Such was the demand that almost immediately more space was required. Within a year HMS Hindostan was added and by 1869, the old Britannia was replaced by the larger Prince of Wales, which was subsequently renamed Britannia. By the mid 1890’s the decision was made finally to build a permanent shore-based college and eventually the foundation stone was laid by HRH King Edward VII on 7th March, exactly 100 years ago, in 1902. After a further three and a half years the college was completed and opened on 14th September 1905. Officer training has continued at Dartmouth ever since, only interrupted after the bombing of the town in September 1942 but returning by 1946. In the intervening period, the college became the home to Combined Operations and latterly, US Naval Headquarters in preparation for the landings on the Normandy beaches. This magnificent building, designed by Sir George Aston Webb, and standing high above Dartmouth in beautiful landscaped grounds continues to be the pride of the Royal Navy. Through the years Britannia Royal Naval College has welcomed many members of the Royal Family either under training or as visitors on ceremonial occasions. A considerable number of fine portraits, naval paintings and artefacts may be found adorning her interiors and within the college’s own museum. In recent years, Britannia Royal Naval College has been permitted to open her doors to the public who may attend Royal Marine Band concerts, open days, parades and guided tours. For information on tours contact the Dartmouth Tourist Information Centre in Mayor’s Avenue, Dartmouth or telephone on: 01803 834224