HMS Cavalier
Explore HMS Cavalier with the help of our audio guide and discover what life was really like on board the ‘fastest ship in the fleet’ as you listen to the powerful and often emotional testimony of those who served on board her.
HMS Cavalier was the Royal Navy's last operational Second World War destroyer and is now preserved at Chatham as a memorial to the 143 British destroyers and over 11,000 men lost at sea during the war.
Built in 1944 at Samuel White's Isle of Wight yard, HMS Cavalier served during the war in the Arctic and the Western Approaches before joining the British Pacific Fleet as the war came to a close. Refitted and modernized in 1957 she continued to play an active role as part of the Royal Navy's Far East and Home fleets until she paid off at Chatham in 1972.
Access to HMS Cavalier
Due to the nature of HMS Cavalier's construction we regret that there is only very limited access on board for people in wheelchairs. Visits to the ship involve some steep ladders and small compartments. A virtual tour of the ship is available on the dock-side for visitors who are unable to go onboard.
Click here to see photos of inside and out of HMS Cavalier!