HMS Collingwood Open Day 2023: Free bus service to Royal Navy’s fun event on Saturday July 1
The HMS Collingwood Open Day is back again this year on Saturday July 1, when fun-filled thrills and maybe one or two spills will be the order of the day.
And there’s even an exciting chance to navigate a ship into harbour … well, on a simulator at least. It won’t be the real thing but it’s bound to be fun - just don’t bump the sides.
The special event at the navy’s training base in Fareham, showcases the Royal Navy and is designed to capture the imagination of visitors and offer an insight into life at the training establishment and other armed forces.
It’s a fun family event with family attractions, with entertainment and displays.
HMS Collingwood Commanding Officer Captain Tim Davey says: “I’m looking forward to welcoming the public back to HMS Collingwood for our popular open day.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase our establishment and support our local community.”
Who will win the coveted trophy
“We are very excited to once again host the Field Gun competition, which always offers great entertainment for the spectators and dedicated followers,” he said.
The Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) Field Gun Competition 2023 looks set to have one of the strongest field of entrants in recent times.
Visitors to the open day will be able to cheer on the determination and spirit of military personnel who have given up months of their own time for nothing more than camaraderie and an almighty challenge: Racing a Victorian cannon against the clock to win the coveted Brickwoods Trophy
But who will have bragging rights? The 2022 winners, HMS Seahawk, will be looking to retain the trophy and be crowned the fastest crew of 2023.
This year 20 crews from Royal Navy establishments, including HMS Prince of Wales and RAF and Army units from as far away as Cyprus, Naples and Stavanger will test their mettle in “the toughest sport in the world”.
Free open day bus service to HMS Collingwood
The open day will also include hands-on interactive zones for hands-on activities, and a visit from the Royal Navy Parachute Display Team.
Some of HMS Collingwood will be open for people to see the Royal Navy’s training equipment and experience some training first hand, including navigating a ship into harbour in a warship bridge simulator.
Gates open at 9.30am and a free bus service will run throughout the day from Fareham and Gosport and back.
Once the entrance fee is paid all entertainment and attractions within the base are free, including the fairground rides. Tickets cost £20 for a family (two adults an up to 3 children) Adults pay £9; children aged five to 15 pay £5 and it’s £5 for concessions including anyone over 68, students, disabled visitors or Veterans, on production of valid ID.
Find out more about the event online.