Museums in Portsmouth

Aspex Portsmouth

Aspex Portsmouth is a contemporary art gallery located in Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth. Established in 1981, it is known for its focus on showcasing innovative and thought provoking visual art from both established and emerging artists. The gallery features a dynamic program of exhibitions, workshops, and events that explore a wide range of media, including painting, sculpture, photography, and digital art.

Aspex Portsmouth aims to engage the local community and visitors with contemporary art through its diverse exhibitions and educational activities. It often collaborates with artists and organizations to present unique and interactive experiences. The gallery's modern space is designed to facilitate an immersive experience, with flexible exhibition areas that can be adapted for different artistic presentations.

In addition to its exhibitions, Aspex Portsmouth offers educational programs, artist talks, and community events, fostering a greater appreciation of contemporary art and providing opportunities for people of all ages to get involved in creative activities. The gallery's commitment to accessibility and inclusivity makes it a vital cultural hub in Portsmouth.

• Aspex Portsmouth: The Vulcan Building, Portsmouth, PO1 3BF
• Telephone: 02392 778080
• Opening times: Mon-Tues Closed, Weds-Sun 11:00 - 16:00

Charles Dickens' Birthplace Museum

The Charles Dickens' Birthplace Museum is located in Portsmouth at 393 Old Commercial Road, in the house where the famous author was born on February 7, 1812. This modest terraced house has been restored to reflect the Regency style of the early 19th century, offering visitors a glimpse into the early life of one of England’s greatest novelists.

The museum features period furnishings, including a crib in which Dickens slept as a baby, along with other family possessions. Visitors can explore the small but carefully preserved rooms, which offer a sense of what life was like for Dickens' family during his early years. The museum also includes displays of Dickensian memorabilia, such as original manuscripts, rare editions of his works, and personal items related to the author.

The museum is a tribute to Dickens' literary legacy and his connection to Portsmouth, with staff available to share insights about his early life, his family, and how growing up in Portsmouth influenced his later writing.

• Charles Dickens Birthplace: 393 Old Commercial Rd, Portsmouth PO1 4QL
• Telephone: 02392 821879

City Museum Portsmouth

The City Museum Portsmouth, located on Museum Road, is a cultural institution housed in a grand Victorian building that was originally built as a barracks in the 19th century. It offers a fascinating journey through the rich history and cultural heritage of Portsmouth, with a variety of exhibits showcasing the city's past and its connection to the sea.

One of the museum's key attractions is its permanent exhibition on the life and work of author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who lived in Portsmouth when he created Sherlock Holmes. The museum also features displays on the city's industrial history, social changes, and its vibrant artistic scene.

Temporary exhibitions frequently change, offering visitors a variety of experiences, from art displays to historical retrospectives. The museum is family friendly, with interactive exhibits and educational programs designed to engage all ages.

• Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery: Museum Road, Portsmouth, PO1 2LJ
• Telephone: 02392 834779
• Opening times: Tuesday – Sunday (and Bank Holiday Mondays), 10:00 - 17:00 Last admission is 16:30

Cumberland House Natural History Museum

The Cumberland House Natural History Museum in Portsmouth is a small, family friendly museum located in Southsea, close to the seafront. Housed in an elegant 18th century building, the museum focuses on the natural history of Portsmouth and the surrounding area. It offers exhibits on local wildlife, habitats, and the natural environment, allowing visitors to explore the diverse ecosystems of the region.

One of the main attractions is the Butterfly House, where visitors can walk among a variety of live tropical butterflies. The museum also features displays on fossils, geology, and the marine life of the nearby Solent and South Coast. Interactive exhibits, children's activities, and educational resources make it a popular destination for school visits and families. With its beautiful setting and fascinating content, Cumberland House provides an engaging way to learn about the natural world.

• Cumberland House Natural History Museum, Eastern Parade, Portsmouth PO4 9RF
• Telephone: 02392 815276
• Opening times: Sun 10:00 - 17:00, Mon Closed, Tues-Sat 10:00 - 17:00

D-Day Story Museum

The D-Day Story Museum in Portsmouth is a renowned museum dedicated to the events and experiences of D-Day, the largest seaborne invasion in history, which took place on June 6, 1944. Located on Clarence Esplanade near Southsea, the museum brings to life the pivotal role that Portsmouth and its people played in the preparation and execution of Operation Overlord during World War II.

Through a mix of personal testimonies, authentic artifacts, interactive displays, and immersive experiences, visitors gain insight into the planning, logistics, and personal stories behind the D-Day landings. The museum's centerpiece is the Overlord Embroidery, an 83 metre long tapestry that tells the story of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy, inspired by the famous Bayeux Tapestry. Other highlights include restored military vehicles, uniforms, weapons, and a landing craft used in the invasion.

The D-Day Story Museum offers a powerful and moving tribute to the courage and sacrifice of those who participated in the operation, making it a must visit for anyone interested in military history or the legacy of World War II.

• D-Day Story Museum: Clarence Esplanade, Southsea, Portsmouth PO5 3NT
• Telephone: 02392 882555
• Opening times: Everyday 10:00 - 17:30

Eastney Beam Engine House

The Eastney Beam Engine House is a beautifully preserved Victorian era pumping station located in the Eastney area of Portsmouth. Originally built in 1887, the engine house contains two magnificent James Watt beam engines, which were used to pump sewage as part of Portsmouth's early sanitation system. The engines, housed in a grand, red-brick Victorian building, are considered masterpieces of 19th century engineering and design.

The museum showcases these steam and gas powered engines, allowing visitors to explore the industrial heritage of Portsmouth. Although the engines are no longer operational on a daily basis, they are regularly run during special events and open days, offering a glimpse into the power and ingenuity of Victorian steam engineering. The impressive architectural details of the engine house, from its large windows to intricate ironwork, reflect the pride of the era in public infrastructure.

• Eastney Beam Engine House: 201-203 Henderson Road, Southsea, PO4 9JF
• Telephone: 02392 834779
• Opening times: Last Sunday of the month (except August and December)
• Beam Engine House open 10:00 -16:00
• Gas Engine House 10:00 - 12.30

Fort Nelson Royal Armouries Museum

Fort Nelson, located on Portsdown Hill near Portsmouth, is one of the six defensive forts built in the 1860s as part of the Palmerston Forts, designed to protect Portsmouth and its naval dockyard from a potential French invasion. Today, Fort Nelson is home to the Royal Armouries Museum, one of the UK's most important collections of arms, armour, and artillery.

• Fort Nelson, Portsdown Hill Road, Fareham, Hants, PO17 6AN
• Telephone: 01329 233734
• Fort Nelson Portsmouth opening times:
• Open every day except 24th, 25th and 26th December.
• Summer (April to October 10am - 5pm (last admission 4pm)
• Winter (November - March) 10am - 4pm (last admission 3pm)
• Admission is free, although there are admission charges for special events

HMS Victory

HMS Victory is one of the most iconic and historically significant warships in the world. Launched in 1765, it is best known for serving as the flagship of Admiral Lord Nelson during the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, a pivotal naval battle during the Napoleonic Wars. Nelson famously died on its deck during the battle, and his leadership helped secure a decisive victory for Britain.

HMS Victory is a 104-gun first-rate ship of the line, a type of wooden warship that was the largest and most powerful vessel in the Royal Navy during the 18th century. It was built at Chatham Dockyard and represents the height of naval engineering and craftsmanship from that era. The ship played a key role in numerous naval campaigns before and after Trafalgar.

Today, HMS Victory is preserved as a museum ship at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, where visitors can explore its decks, see where Nelson lived and died, and learn about life aboard a British warship during the Age of Sail. The ship remains a symbol of Britain's naval heritage and continues to serve as the flagship of the First Sea Lord, the professional head of the Royal Navy. It is the world's oldest naval ship still in commission.

• Portsmouth Historic Dockyard: Main Road, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth, PO1 3LJ
• Telephone: 02392 839766
• Opening times: Everyday 10:00 - 17:00

HMS Warrior

HMS Warrior is a historic warship that marked a significant technological advancement in naval engineering. Launched in 1860, it was Britain's first iron hulled, armored warship and was powered by both steam and sail, making it one of the most formidable vessels of its time. At 420 feet long and armed with 40 large calibre guns, Warrior was designed to maintain Britain's dominance at sea during the height of the Victorian era.

HMS Warrior was a response to French innovations in naval warfare, particularly the ironclad warship La Gloire. With its combination of iron armor and a powerful steam engine, Warrior rendered wooden warships obsolete. It was the largest and fastest warship of its day, but despite its revolutionary design, it never saw combat, as its mere presence was enough to deter potential adversaries.

After a relatively short service life, the ship was eventually decommissioned and used for various purposes, including as a floating oil jetty. It was fully restored in the 1970s and now serves as a museum ship at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, where visitors can explore its state of the art Victorian design, crew quarters, and innovative armaments. HMS Warrior symbolizes the transition from traditional sail-powered ships to modern steel warships and remains a proud example of Britain's naval ingenuity.

• Portsmouth Historic Dockyard: Victory Gate, Portsmouth, PO1 3QX
• Telephone: 02392 778600
• Opening times: Everyday 10:00 - 17:00

Mary Rose Museum

The Mary Rose Museum in Portsmouth is dedicated to the 16th-century warship Mary Rose, which served as part of Henry VIII's navy. The museum showcases the fascinating history of the ship, which tragically sank in the Solent in 1545 during a battle against the French. After lying on the seabed for over 400 years, the ship was salvaged in 1982 in one of the most significant archaeological endeavors in British history.

The museum houses the well preserved remains of the ship's hull along with over 19,000 artifacts recovered from the wreck. These items, including weapons, tools, personal belongings, and even human remains, provide a unique insight into Tudor life and naval warfare. The museum employs advanced conservation techniques to display these artifacts, and it uses interactive exhibits and multimedia displays to bring the ship’s history to life.

Visitors to the Mary Rose Museum, located at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, can explore the reconstructed decks of the Mary Rose, experience life on board a Tudor warship, and learn about the vessel's final moments. It is a must see for history enthusiasts and a poignant reminder of Britain’s naval heritage.

• Portsmouth Historic Dockyard: Main Road, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth, PO1 3PY
• Telephone: 02392 812931
• Opening times: Everyday 10:00 - 17:00

National Museum of the Royal Navy

The National Museum of the Royal Navy (NMRN), located at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, is a premier institution that chronicles the rich history of the Royal Navy, one of the oldest and most storied naval forces in the world. The museum showcases over 800 years of naval history, from the medieval period to the present day, exploring the pivotal role the Royal Navy has played in shaping Britain's history, culture, and global influence.

The museum features a vast collection of artifacts, including naval uniforms, weapons, medals, ship models, and personal items belonging to sailors. It also presents interactive exhibits and immersive experiences that provide visitors with insight into life at sea, the evolution of naval warfare, and the significance of key naval battles, such as Trafalgar.

Highlights of the NMRN include exhibits on iconic figures like Admiral Lord Nelson, displays related to famous ships like HMS Victory and HMS Warrior, and sections dedicated to submarine warfare, naval aviation, and the Royal Marines. The museum offers a comprehensive understanding of the technological innovations, traditions, and challenges that have defined the Royal Navy through the centuries.

• Portsmouth Historic Dockyard: HM Naval Base (PP66), HM Naval Base, Portsmouth, PO1 3NH
• Telephone: 02392 891370
• Opening times: Everyday 10:00 - 17:00

Portsmouth Music Experience Exhibition

The Portsmouth Music Experience Exhibition at Portsmouth Guildhall is a permanent display celebrating the rich musical heritage of the city. Located within the historic Guildhall, the exhibition showcases memorabilia, photographs, and stories related to Portsmouth's vibrant music scene, spanning decades. It highlights the city’s role in the development of various musical genres, featuring local artists, iconic performances, and major events. Visitors can explore the evolution of music in Portsmouth, from local bands and underground venues to famous acts that have played in the city, offering an immersive journey into its musical past and present.

• Portsmouth Music Experience Exhibition: Portsmouth Guildhall, Guildhall Square, Portsmouth, PO1 2AB
• Telephone: 02393 870200
• Opening times: Mon-Fri 10:00 -16:00

Royal Marines Museum

• Currently closed for relocation.

Royal Navy Submarine Museum

The Royal Navy Submarine Museum in Gosport is a museum dedicated to the history of British submarine warfare. It is part of the National Museum of the Royal Navy and offers a unique insight into the development of submarines and their role in naval warfare. The museum houses several historic submarines, including the famous HMS Alliance, which visitors can explore to get a firsthand experience of life onboard.

One of the museum’s highlights is the preserved Holland 1, the Royal Navy’s first submarine, dating back to 1901. Alongside these vessels, the museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits and displays, showcasing the technological advancements in submarine design, the strategic importance of submarines in both World Wars, and personal stories from submariners.

The museum also features artefacts, photographs, and memorabilia that trace the evolution of submarine warfare, while providing detailed historical context. Guided tours, educational programs, and events make the museum an engaging and informative destination for visitors of all ages interested in naval history.

• Royal Navy Submarine Museum, Haslar, Jetty Road, Gosport, PO12 2AS
• Telephone: 02392 510354
• Opening times: Mon Closed, Tues-Sun 10:00 - 16:30

Southsea Castle

Southsea Castle is a historic fortress located on the seafront of Southsea, Portsmouth, offering stunning views over the Solent and the English Channel. Built by Henry VIII in 1544, the castle was part of a defensive network established to protect England from potential invasion by France. The castle's design features the typical Henry VIII-era artillery fortifications, including a circular bastion and thick defensive walls.

Over the centuries, Southsea Castle has played various roles, from a military stronghold to a royal residence. During the English Civil War, it was a significant site of conflict and later saw use as a military hospital and barracks.

Today, Southsea Castle is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore its well-preserved ramparts, enjoy panoramic views from the top of the tower, and visit the onsite museum. The museum houses exhibits related to the castle's history, including artifacts from its various periods of use.

• Southsea Castle: Clarence Esplanade, Southsea, Portsmouth, Southsea PO5 3PA
• Telephone: 02392 841625
• Opening times: Everyday 10:00 - 17:00