HMS Somerset opens up to the public in Scotland

The Royal Navy frigate HMS Somerset has been flying the flag in Scotland and opening up to visitors.

The Plymouth-based frigate sailed into the Port of Leith and opened her doors to lucky members of the public who had a rare chance to see how sailors live and work at sea.

Taking advantage of a couple of days away from national tasking, the ship’s company were also allowed time off to enjoy the sights of nearby Edinburgh city centre.

Reflecting on the visit HMS Somerset’s captain Commander Tim Berry said:  “The Royal Navy has always maintained strong links with Leith and her surrounding maritime community, so we were looking forward to the visit and were not disappointed.  

“Opening HMS Somerset to the public gave the local community an exciting and unique insight into life on board a modern and highly capable naval warship, providing a contrasting picture to the grandeur of the Royal Yacht berthed ahead.’’

Berthed next to the retired Royal Yacht Britannia (formerly crewed by the Royal Navy), the city provided a lively backdrop to the events on-board including the Edinburgh Festival and the Royal Military Tattoo.

The ship also staged a demonstration of her abilities to invited VIP visitors. 

The Lord Provost said that his brief time on-board HMS Somerset was ‘one of the most exciting experiences of my four years in office’.