Night Hunters Coastal Forces

Learn the little-known story of the Royal Navy’s heroic coastal forces told for the first time at Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower.  

The Night Hunters: The Royal Navy’s Coastal Forces at War pays tribute to the high-risk, high-octane operations of the coastal forces in both world wars. With over 3,000 decorations won, including four Victoria Crosses, discover this testament to the dangerous operations undertaken by these men, often at night and at high speed. 

This incredible collection includes rare photographs that capture the intensity of serving in the coastal forces and the off-duty antics of the crews, as well as sketches, notebooks and personal belongings that give a fascinating insight into the lives of these heroes. The dedicated Rober Hitchens Memorial Exhibition honours the life of Lieutenant Commander Robert Hichens and how he became the most highly decorated RNVR (Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve) Officer.  

Also on display is the Holman Projector, an anti-aircraft weapon used to deter German aircraft, a Mark 11 Oerlikon anti-aircraft gun, and a buoyant acoustic mine. At the centre of the exhibition are two historic World War Two boats, Coastal Motor Boat CMB331 and Motor Torpedo Boat MTB71, also known as the “Spitfires of the Seas”.