DON your duffle coat and grab your ditty box to discover what life was like on the high seas, in a week of activities next month at IWM North.

From submarines to sea mines, explore the past 100 years at sea through storytelling, craft activities and objects on display.

As IWM North marks the centenary of the First World War, discover the real life stories of those who served at sea, such as Thomas Clare, a seasoned sailor who served on HMS Centurion – a huge battleship known as a Super-Dreadnought.

See the 9ct gold naval torpedo brooch Thomas sent to his sweetheart to mark their first wedding anniversary while he was away at sea.

Ever wondered what life is like at sea? Where do you sleep? What do you eat? Meet a Navy veteran and find out the varied missions they undertake, such as humanitarian aid and anti-piracy.

Families are invited to get creative in daily craft sessions such as leaving a message in a bottle.

Younger visitors can take part in interactive storytelling sessions and learn about the strange animals that have sailed the seas, including Olga the reindeer and Tirpitz the pig.

Try out some sailor slang and learn when you should ‘pipe down’ and when to ‘sing your hook’.

Graham Boxer, IWM North director said: “For centuries the Royal Navy has ruled the waves, so the song goes.

“In reality, sailors at times of conflict have faced some of the toughest conditions of all the armed forces, from those who served at the Battle of Jutland in the First World War to the men of the Arctic Convoys in the Second World War.”

The week long events get under on Saturday, February 14.

  • IWM is unique in its coverage of conflicts, especially those involving Britain and the Commonwealth, from the First World War to the present day. We seek to provide for, and to encourage, the study and understanding of the history of modern war and ‘wartime experience’. We are proud to be regarded as essential sights of London, Cambridgeshire and Greater Manchester.