Operations Room and Compass Platform

On the deck below are HMS Belfast's Operations Room and Compass Platform, the nerve centre and brain of the entire ship. Although the layout and equipment in both these areas differs from that fitted in the Second World War, the plots and 'stateboards' have been reconstructed to show her role in the Battle of North Cape on 26 December 1943, which ended in the sinking of the Scharnhorst.

The entire operation of the ship could be controlled from the Compass Platform by the Officer of the Watch. The Captain would usually take command when the ship was in action or carrying out dangerous manoeuvres.

Admiral's Bridge and Officer's Sea Cabins

On the deck below the Compass Platorm are the Admiral's Bridge and the sea cabins reserved for the Admiral and his staff and for the Captain. HMS Belfast was built as a flagship and carried an Admiral for most of her operational life.

The additional bridge was provided so that the Admiral and his staff could exercise control over the fleet or squadron of vessels under his command without overcrowding the Compass Platform and interfering with the operation of the ship.