On 24 July 1895, Banshee commissioned at Devonport for manoeuvres of the Channel Fleet. In January 1896, Banshee was in commission at Devonport for training purposes. In March 1896, she was docked at Devonport for repair of damage to her hull sustained in severe weather in the Irish Sea. In July 1896, Banshee took part in the Royal Navy's annual fleet exercises. Later that year, she joined the Mediterranean Fleet, arriving at Malta on 16 September. She remained on the Mediterranean station for most of the rest of her service. Lieutenant Alan Cameron Bruce was appointed in command in the Spring of 1902. She visited Lemnos in August 1902, and Argostoli in early October. Lieutenant James Uchtred Farie was appointed in command later that year.
