HMS Belfast went all 'Jitterbugs and Jives' for the evening as IWM and Sodexo Prestige welcomed guests onboard for an evening of great music, food and drink on Wednesday 1st June 2011.
Over 200 event bookers, agents and corporate clients were welcomed onboard HMS Belfast with a glass of Champagne or Pimm’s while the Sweethearts made their debut on the Quarterdeck of HMS Belfast playing toe-tapping tunes from 1940’s and 1950’s. Guests were invited to explore the ship with private tours by Yeomen who gave fantastic insight into how and where the sailors and officers ate, slept, worked and socialised on board. The tour took in the ship's stunning and newly refurbished Admiral's Quarters as well as the Gun Room, the Mess Deck and Turrets. While guests were discovering the history of the ship they were entertained by actors dressed as Lieutenant Commander Graham and Rating Frank ‘Loaf’ Wood who added lighthearted comments and quips on daily life aboard the HMS Belfast.
Phil Reed, Director of the Museum introduced HMS Belfast to the guests and highlighted the ship’s prestigious history and heritage. Permanently moored between London Bridge and Tower Bridge, HMS Belfast was saved for the nation in 1971 and is the only surviving example of the great fleets of big gun armoured warships built in the first half of the twentieth century. An important part of British history, HMS Belfast took part in the Arctic Convoys and was the first ship to fire a shot on D-Day.
Sam Hart, Sales Manager, introduced the new summer carvery menu and highlighted the fact that HMS Belfast is one of London’s most unique and iconic venues with stunning views across London and perfect for parties and summer BBQs. The HMS Belfast team were also on hand to discuss private dining, summer parties and group events throughout the summer.
A barbecue was set up on the Boat Deck serving a choice of marinated lamb and tofu skewers while a buffet was set up on the Quarterdeck showcasing the new summer carvery menu with a choice of roasted loin of pork with freshly made apple sauce or lemon and thyme roasted chicken. The selection of salads included coleslaw with toasted pumpkin seeds; couscous and roasted sweet pepper, tomato, red onion and chives; garden leaves, baby plum tomatoes and slow roasted yellow tomatoes.
HMS Belfast
Ideal for events up to 400 guests, HMS Belfast offers spectacular 360 degree views of London and authentically decorated rooms, each with their own individual characteristics. Guests can dine in the Officer’s Mess, climb a gun turret or watch the sun set on the Quarterdeck.
Just 5 minutes walk from London Bridge Station, HMS Belfast also benefits from its own landing stage allowing you to transport your guests directly by river.
