Remembering the Royal Naval Patrol Service
Remembering the Royal Naval Patrol Service
Honouring those who served. Preserving their stories.
Keeping their memory alive for generations to come.
Welcome to the RNPSA
The Royal Naval Patrol Service Association (RNPSA) is dedicated to preserving the memory of those who served in the Royal Naval Patrol Service (RNPS) during World War II.
These brave men and women played a crucial role in securing British & World wide waters, operating from the historic wartime headquarters at HMS Europa (Sparrows Nest), Lowestoft.
The RNPS was composed of trawlers, drifters, and small auxiliary vessels that carried out minesweeping, anti-submarine patrols, and escort duties. Their dedication and sacrifice helped protect Britain’s coastal and international waters throughout the war.
Remember · Preserve · Connect
Our Mission
From trawlers and drifters to small auxiliary vessels, the Royal Naval Patrol Service helped keep the sea lanes safe during the Second World War. We exist to ensure their contribution is never forgotten.
Commemorate & Honour
Recognising the contributions and sacrifices of those who served.
Explore the memorial
Preserve & Educate
Keeping the history of the RNPS alive for future generations.
Discover the collection
Connect & Support
Providing a space for veterans, families, and naval enthusiasts to share stories and research.
Meet the Association
About the Association
The Royal Naval Patrol Service Association, Registered Charity No. 273148, was formed in 1975 to unite veterans who served in the Royal Naval Patrol Service (1939-1946) and to provide support to them and their dependants.
Although the Association occupies some of the original buildings of HMS Europa, it was formed 30 years after World War II. No original naval records were left on the premises when the Association moved in, and all documents, photographs, and memorabilia in our collection have been donated by veterans and family members.
The Association remains active in:
- Preserving the History of the RNPS – Through archives, exhibitions, and research.
- Supporting Veterans & Families – Offering assistance where needed.
- Educating Future Generations – Sharing the experiences of RNPS personnel through our Museum and outreach efforts.
Visiting the Museum & Archives
The RNPSA Museum and Office are open for visitors on:
Monday, Wednesday & Friday
9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
We can and do open at other times by mutual agreement. Please contact us if you would like to arrange a visit.
We might be able to extend opening hours if we had more volunteers. If you have an interest in the Royal Naval Patrol Service and could spare a few hours per week, please consider joining us. Full training will be provided, and voluntary work at a charity looks great on your CV!
Contact / Visit Us
Contact / Visit Us
Address
Royal Naval Patrol Service Association
Naval Museum
Sparrows Nest,
Whapload Road,
Lowestoft,
Suffolk NR32 1XG
Contact
Opening Hours
Mon, Wed & Fri
9:30 am – 12:30 pm
We can and do open at other times by mutual agreement. Please contact us if you would like to arrange a visit.
Keep their memory alive
Be part of the next chapter.
Become a member, share a family story, or volunteer a few hours.
Every contribution helps us carry their legacy forward. Volunteer training is provided.
