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Happy daze: Devonport open days pull in more than 10,000 visitors
28 July 2025
More than 10,000 people sampled life ‘behind the wall’ when Devonport opened its gates for the first time in more than a decade.
Not since Navy Days ended have been people been allowed to look around the largest naval base in Western Europe.
In cooperation with the base’s industrial partner, Babcock International, over two days – one dedicated to the families of personnel and civilian staff, the second for members of the public – seven sites, each showcasing a different aspect of the work and activities taking place, were opened to visitors.
Among the sights of ‘Devonport Days’: frigate HMS Portland and patrol boat HMS Smiter, both of which welcomed visitors to look around with crews on hand to talk about their duties and jobs.
“It’s really important to let our families and the public see where we work and what we do, open days like this are a great opportunity for us all,” said Lieutenant Sam Charlesworth, HMS Smiter’s commanding officer.
Visitors were also able to look over some of the new autonomous systems being developed which operate from the base as well as speak with those who work in Devonport.
“It is tremendously important for the public to get a glimpse into the Naval Base and see what goes on behind the walls and barbed wire,” said Naval Base Commander Brigadier Mike Tanner RM.
Not since Navy Days ended have been people been allowed to look around the largest naval base in Western Europe.
In cooperation with the base’s industrial partner, Babcock International, over two days – one dedicated to the families of personnel and civilian staff, the second for members of the public – seven sites, each showcasing a different aspect of the work and activities taking place, were opened to visitors.
Among the sights of ‘Devonport Days’: frigate HMS Portland and patrol boat HMS Smiter, both of which welcomed visitors to look around with crews on hand to talk about their duties and jobs.
“It’s really important to let our families and the public see where we work and what we do, open days like this are a great opportunity for us all,” said Lieutenant Sam Charlesworth, HMS Smiter’s commanding officer.
Visitors were also able to look over some of the new autonomous systems being developed which operate from the base as well as speak with those who work in Devonport.
“It is tremendously important for the public to get a glimpse into the Naval Base and see what goes on behind the walls and barbed wire,” said Naval Base Commander Brigadier Mike Tanner RM.