HMS Ganges, Shotley, Suffolk (swimming pool)

Image: © rob Taken: 2 Jan 2010

The name HMS Ganges came into service in 1779 when 3 vessels were presented to the navy by the Honourable East India company. One of them was the Bengal built on the Thames at Blackwall which was re-named HMS Ganges. She was broken up in 1816. Her successor built in Bombay was launched on 10th November 1821, subsequently arriving at Portsmouth in October 1822. After various commissions HMS Ganges was commissioned as the flag-ship of Rear Admiral R L Bayes on the Pacific Station and left for the Pacific in September 1857. On return to England in 1861 HMS Ganges entered the history book as being the last sailing ship to be a sea going flag-ship In 1866 HMS Ganges became the boys' training ship anchored in Falmouth harbour where she remained until August 1899. In November 1899 HMS Ganges was transferred to Harwich harbour. HMS Ganges remained in Harwich harbour as a boys' training ship and in 1905 the boys moved ashore for their training, which continued at Shotley until 1976. After visiting Sugar Factory in Ipswich we had HMS Ganges on the list. First come across this place when my dad popped in coming back from my nan's. He trained here in the navy. The buildings are pretty basic inside apart from the swimming pool which is the nuts. Access is fun when you're with two people who can’t climb. Here is the picture hope you enjoy it

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