This insightful and interactive museum commemorates the heroism of the Allied forces, many of whom set off from Portsmouth to storm the beaches of Normandy in 1944.
A stunning tapestry forms the centerpiece of the D-Day Museum, a space dedicated to documenting and remembering a crucial moment in World War II. On June 6, 1944, the Allied forces launched a brave invasion of the north coast of France, a pivotal move that changed the course of the war. Engage with the tragedy and triumph of this day through interactive exhibits and displays.
Examine the vast Overlord Embroidery, a tribute to the mission that helped win the war. Inspect the details and admire the craftsmanship of the 272-foot (83-metre) tapestry, which depicts the events of D-Day. Listen to multilingual audio commentary for further information about the work. The project took 5 years to complete and is one of the longest embroideries of its kind.
Watch film footage and hear stories of people's experiences of D-Day in the audio-visual theatre. See personal objects from this period and check out displays that recreate life during the war, including a recreation of the landings themselves. Look for an authentic tank and landing vehicle from the battle.
Find out more about the role Portsmouth played during the landings from the Portsmouth Memories exhibition, which tells the stories of local people who were involved in the monumental invasion. Take a moment to reflect while viewing a photographic display of a war cemetery in Normandy.
Occasionally Normandy veterans will give talks about the war and D-Day at the museum, providing first-hand insight into the battle. Check the museum's calendar to see if any are scheduled during your visit.
The D-Day Museum is about 1 mile (1.5 kilometres) away from both Portsmouth Harbour and Portsmouth and Southsea train stations. Discover more about Portsmouth at the city's Visitor Information Centre in the museum foyer. The museum is open year-round. A fee is usually required to enter, although admission is free on November’s Remembrance Sunday, a solemn time to reflect on the heroism of soldiers.
