Victory Gate, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth PO1 3LJ
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is an area of HM Naval Base Portsmouth which is open to the public; it contains several historic buildings and ships.
Location
About
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard Museum is a must-visit destination for history lovers and tourists visiting Portsmouth, England. This unique museum is located in the heart of the city and is home to some of the most iconic and historic ships in British naval history. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore and learn about the rich history of Portsmouth, as well as the Royal Navy and its role in shaping the world as we know it today.
One of the main highlights of the museum is the chance to visit the famous ship, HMS Victory. This ship is best known for its role in the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, where it served as Lord Nelson's flagship. Visitors can walk the deck of the ship and learn about its history, as well as the life of the sailors who served aboard it.
Another must-see attraction at the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard Museum is the Mary Rose Museum. The Mary Rose was a warship in the Tudor navy and was lost in the Solent in 1545. The ship was raised from the seabed in 1982 and has since been restored and housed in a purpose-built museum. Visitors can see the ship's remains, as well as learn about the daily life of its crew and the technology used to raise the ship from the seabed.
The museum also features interactive exhibitions, including the Action Stations, where visitors can experience life on board a modern warship, including the operations room and the flight deck of a helicopter. The National Museum of the Royal Navy is also located within the dockyard and provides an in-depth look at the history of the Royal Navy, from its early beginnings to the modern day.
In addition to the exhibits, the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard Museum offers a variety of activities and events for visitors of all ages. Children can participate in fun and educational workshops, while adults can attend lectures and talks on naval history. The museum also has a gift shop, offering a range of souvenirs and memorabilia for visitors to take home.
Overall, the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard Museum is a must-visit destination for tourists and history enthusiasts visiting Portsmouth, England. With its rich history, interactive exhibitions, and exciting events, this museum offers a unique and unforgettable experience for all visitors.
Gallery
Things to do nearby
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is a must-visit destination for any history enthusiast or maritime lover. It offers visitors a chance to explore some of the most significant ships in British naval history and experience life at sea. However, there's more to the area than just the dockyard. Here are some other nearby places and things to do from a tourist perspective.
1. The Mary Rose Museum
One of the main attractions near the dockyard is the Mary Rose Museum, which houses the remains of Henry VIII's flagship, the Mary Rose. Visitors can see the ship's hull, along with the thousands of artifacts that have been recovered from the wreck. The museum also offers interactive displays and immersive exhibits that bring Tudor life to life.
2. Southsea Beach
Just a short distance from the dockyard is Southsea Beach, which is a great place to relax and soak up some sun. The beach has a long promenade lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. There are also plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained, including mini-golf, beach volleyball, and water sports.
3. Spinnaker Tower
For a bird's eye view of the city, head to the Spinnaker Tower. The tower stands at 170 meters tall and offers panoramic views of Portsmouth, the Solent, and beyond. Visitors can also take a glass-bottomed walkway, which offers a unique perspective of the city below.
4. Gunwharf Quays
If you're in the mood for some shopping, head to Gunwharf Quays. This outlet mall is home to over 90 stores, including high-end brands like Michael Kors, Hugo Boss, and Ted Baker. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars, as well as a cinema and bowling alley.
5. Portsmouth City Museum
The Portsmouth City Museum offers visitors a chance to explore the city's rich history, from its Roman origins to the present day. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts, including weapons, ceramics, and art. There are also interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience life in different eras of the city's past.
6. Royal Navy Submarine Museum
For a unique experience, head to the Royal Navy Submarine Museum. Here, visitors can explore the only surviving British World War II submarine, the HMS Alliance. The museum also offers immersive exhibits that allow visitors to experience life on board a submarine, as well as a collection of historic torpedoes and other naval artifacts.
7. D-Day Museum
The D-Day Museum tells the story of the Normandy Landings and the role that Portsmouth played in the operation. Visitors can see original artifacts and vehicles from the landings, as well as interactive exhibits that bring the events of D-Day to life.
In conclusion, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is a fantastic place to visit, but there's plenty to do and see in the surrounding area as well. Whether you're interested in history, shopping, or just soaking up some sun, there's something for everyone in Portsmouth.
Opening Hours
| Tuesday | 10 am–5 pm |
|---|---|
| Wednesday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Thursday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Friday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Saturday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Sunday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Monday | 10 am–5 pm |