Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

Photo provided by The D-Day Story
Find heroic ships, triumphant naval vessels and World War I frigates at this dockyard, a tribute to the city’s maritime might.

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is a symbol of the city’s naval importance, housing some of the most famous vessels in the country. Since its days as a medieval trading port, Portsmouth has been inextricably tied to the ocean. Explore the ships of kings and admirals and learn about them in this complex where authentic vessels and museums illuminate the city's and the nation's rich maritime history.

One of the most historic craft in the dockyard is HMS Warrior, a fearsome iron-hulled vessel that was built in around 1859. Upon launch, this magnificent 40-gun frigate struck fear into the hearts of rival navies around the world. It was restored during the 1980s and has been transformed into an impressive maritime museum which is now part of The National Museum of the Royal Navy.

Follow in the footsteps of Lord Nelson and his men on HMS Victory, a beautifully preserved flagship that shows what life was like as a crew member or officer during the Napoleonic wars. Also docked here is HMS M.33, the only surviving craft from the British Gallipoli campaign in World War I.

Find out what it’s like to be in the Royal Navy at Action Stations, an exhilarating adventure experience that features a climbing wall, laser tag (additional charge) and motion simulators. Learn more about the boats, the people who worked on them and how they were built in the historic Boathouse 4 and The Museum of the Royal Navy. You can also see the fascinating history of the area from the Harbour Tour. 

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is a very short walk north of Portsmouth Harbour train and bus stations. Drive here and use nearby parking for a fee. Purchase individual tickets for the attractions of your choice or save money by buying a Full Navy Ticket  online at a discount price. Then try to fit in every fascinating sight in a day of fact-filled exploring.

The Full Navy Ticket also includes the Royal Navy Submarine Museum, Gosport, and Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower, Gosport – both accessible by a water bus from Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. 

Reviews of Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

4.7
Top destination
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5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
18 Jan 2020

Been there before, need a full day to see all

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
26 Oct 2019

So much to see, plan in advance.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
12 Oct 2019

The Mary Rose Museum is spectacular

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
4 Sep 2019

Use the Hover bus it stops outside hotel and goes to The Hard after stopping to pick up passengers from the Hovercraft

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
17 Aug 2019

Had an excellent time, something to do for everyone

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
20 May 2019

The Mary Rose is incredible - not to be missed!

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