HMS Collingwood Open Day Guide

The HMS Collingwood naval base in Fareham, Hampshire, opened its gates yesterday, Saturday, 4 July 2026, for its annual public open day. This event offers a rare opportunity to explore one of the Royal Navy's largest training establishments, known as a "stone frigate." As the lead establishment of the Maritime Warfare School and the largest naval training organization in Western Europe, the base has a rich history dating back to its commissioning on 10 January 1940. Named after Lord Collingwood, the base operates under the motto Ferar unus et idem and is currently commanded by Captain Tim Davey. For locals in the Portsmouth area, the open day serves as a major summer highlight, bringing military history and interactive experiences together in one place.

The centerpiece of the weekend was the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) Field Gun Competition, where teams competed for the prestigious Brickwoods Trophy. This physically demanding event commemorates the 119-mile dash by bluejackets to lift the siege of Ladysmith during the Second Boer War. Sir Rupert Brickwood donated the trophy in 1907, and while it was originally restricted to Portsmouth teams, it now welcomes bases from across the country. Alongside the main tournament, the Junior Leaders’ Field Gun Competition, established in 2006, featured Phase 2 trainees aged 16 to 24 alongside youth groups like the Sea Cadets.

Visitors at the open day had access to interactive zones showcasing Royal Navy training equipment, including a warship bridge simulator that allowed people to experience navigating a ship into the harbour. The Military Village featured displays from the Royal Navy, Defence Training, and other armed forces. For families, the dedicated children’s area included a petting zoo, bouncy inflatables, and fairground rides like dodgems. Once the entrance fee was paid, all of these on-site attractions and rides were free of charge. Ticket prices on the day were set at £40 for families, £18 for adults, and £10 for children over three, with early bird discounts having been available earlier in the spring.

To make travel straightforward, a free bus service operated throughout the day from Fareham and Gosport. The event was supported heavily by the RNRMC, the principal charity of the Royal Navy, which has been supporting sailors, marines, and their families since 2007. Headquartered at Building 37, HMS Excellent on Whale Island, the charity operates under the patronage of The Princess Royal and the leadership of President Admiral Sir Jonathon Band, CEO Adrian Bell, and Chairman Dr Brian Gilvary. For those looking to follow updates or plan for future events, the base maintains active digital channels on Facebook and X, and inquiries can be directed to their official training establishment contacts.