BRNC Dartmouth
BRNC Dartmouth, located in Devon, England, serves as the initial training establishment for officers in the Royal Navy. It is renowned as the premier officer training academy in the UK.
Role of the Base
The base is responsible for providing comprehensive training programs at the Britannia Royal Naval College. It plays a vital role in defence by providing Initial Officer Training and ongoing leadership development. The college also supports Defence Diplomacy efforts by training international officers. Its overarching goal is to produce courageous leaders with the determination to succeed in combat. enduring leadership training, and support to Defence Diplomacy outputs through the training of International officers. Underpinning all aspects of training at BRNC remain the aim to deliver courageous leaders with the spirit to fight and win.
Base history
Throughout its history, BRNC Dartmouth has evolved, expanded its courses, and trained officers for the Royal Navy, adapting to changing needs and integrating women into its training programs.
1863
Training hulks Britannia and Hindostan established on Mount Boone peninsula, owned by the estate of Sir Walter Raleigh.
1902
Foundation stone laid by King Edward VII for the present buildings designed by Sir George Aston Webb.
1905
Britannia Royal Naval College officially opens with the first cadets entering three years later.
1942
College evacuated and temporarily closed due to bombing during World War II.
1946
Royal Naval College re-opens after the war with expanded courses.
1971
HRH The Prince of Wales joins as a graduate Sub Lieutenant.
1974
Special Duties Officers Pre-qualifying Course, St. George, begins.
1976
WRNS Officers' Training Course, Talbot, starts.
1990
Integration of female Naval Officers' training with male counterparts.
1996
Special Duties Officers' Greenwich course moves to Dartmouth.
Base sports facilities
Our new premier gymnasium, built in 2020, offers a state of the art hall for various indoor sports such as:
Five-a-side football
Basketball
Badminton
Indoor cricket
A second indoor gymnasium hall, offering a squash court and a bouldering wall, is available. The space is also suitable for indoor sports.
Two key fob lockers are also available to use, situated next to the nearby Astroturf Pitch.
Our affiliated CrossFit box, that’s supplied with various functional fitness equipment, is available for use from our additional gym hall.
We have a six lane, 27.4m x 10.9m swimming pool, with a depth range from 1.45m at its shallowest point to 2.41m at its deepest. The pool does not include a diving board.
Opening Hours for Free Swims:
- Monday (four sessions): 11:15 – 1200, 12:15 – 13:15, 15:45 – 16:15, 17:00 – 17:45
- Tuesday (two sessions): 12:15 – 1315, 17:00 – 17:45
- Wednesday (three sessions): 11:15 – 12:00, 12:15 – 13:15, 16:00 – 16:45
- Thursday (three sessions): 12:15 – 13:15, 15:45 – 16:15, 17:00 – 17:45
- Friday, Saturday and Sunday: Closed
A range of options for outdoor sport and recreation are available, located just a five-minute walk from the Arthur Harrison Gymnasium, including a:
- Football Pitch
- Cricket Pitch
- Rugby Pitch
An Astroturf pitch is also available, which has lockers nearby, while we're also able to offer tennis courts, located behind the Nav block.
Find us
BRNC Dartmouth
Contact Details
Telephone: +44 (0)23 9282 6536
Email Address: [email protected]
Commanding Officer:
Captain Andrew (Andy) Bray
Get a tour of BRNC
Join our guided tour to discover the historic Britannia Royal Naval College. Marvel at the iconic architecture and delve into its rich history. Experience the heart of the College, from the Chapel to the Britannia Heritage Museum. Book tickets below or call 01803 677565. Advance booking recommended.