PLYMOUTH Naval Base is opening its gates to visitors on Sunday, October 26 for the final chance of this year to glimpse its rich maritime history with the theme of Remembering World War.

As well as historical exhibitions, in contrast, visitors can enjoy boat trips round the operational moored warships in HM Naval Base, Devonport and meet the Navy’s bomb disposal team.

Warrant Officer Ray Crockett said: “This is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the history and heritage of both Devonport, the Naval Base and the Royal Navy.

"The final open day of 2014 with the additional attraction of free boat trips around the naval base and tours of the submarine Courageous. An excellent family day out with something for everyone in the family.

"This year we commemorate the centenary of World War 1 and the open day supports that with a theme of ‘Remembering WW1’.

The collection includes exhibitions from across the ages from the age of sail up to modern day. We look forward to seeing you and sharing the outstanding and unique treasures of the heritage centre.’’

As part of the open day, from 10am to 4pm, the Devonport Naval Base Heritage Centre will be open to the public with galleries dedicated to the following:

• Model Ships gallery, one of the UK’s largest collections of 1:72 scale model warships ranging from WW2 to current day warships.

• Gilroy House, featuring exhibitions on the traditional boat building methods, the history of navigation, trinity house, rope making.

• Devonport Gallery has exhibitions on WW1, WW2, Semaphore, Morse code, Naval supplies, uniform collection, medals, a working periscope for visitors, cooperage, history of Plymouth Breakwater and a Royal Marines exhibition.

• ‘Age of Sail’, an exhibition of the age of sail including interactive displays and a replica gun deck from days when men were steal and ships were wood.

• Police Gallery, celebrating the history of military and civil police across the ages from the UK and across the globe.

Tours include: Free guided boat trips around the Naval Base on the river, visits to the retired Cold War nuclear submarine Courageous and to the Royal Naval Southern Dive Unit and its display of bomb disposal equipment along with the chance to meet the MOD Police and see a fast inshore patrol boat.

A café will be open for drinks, home made cakes, pasties and snacks. Information line 01752 552326 / 01752 554200. Bookings required for boat trips and Courageous submarine tours. The booking desk opens at 10am.