Located within the heart of Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, the National Museum of the Royal Navy Portsmouth stands as a testament to Britain’s illustrious seafaring legacy. Set in two striking Grade I listed 18th-century storehouses—No. 11 (1763) and No. 10 (1776)—linked by a modern glass atrium, alongside the Victory Gallery built in 1938, the museum offers visitors a seamless journey through centuries of naval history.
A Rich Maritime Foundation
Founded to preserve and celebrate the heritage of the Royal Navy, the museum plays a key role in the National Museum of the Royal Navy network. It was established to educate, conserve, and bring alive the extraordinary stories of Britain’s naval past, all within the very dockyard where much of this history unfolded.
What Makes It Exceptional
Historic Architecture
The museum’s home within authentic 18th-century naval storehouses brings visitors face-to-face with history, with the very fabric of the building reflecting its original maritime purpose.
Iconic Ships
- HMS Victory: Nelson’s legendary flagship from the Battle of Trafalgar, carefully preserved and complemented by the Victory Gallery, offering a detailed look at life aboard and the ship’s remarkable history.
- HMS Warrior: The first iron-hulled warship, representing a leap forward in naval engineering during the Victorian era.
- HMS M.33: One of only three surviving British warships from World War I, offering a rare glimpse into naval operations during the Gallipoli campaign.
Gallery Highlights
- The Nelson Gallery: Dedicated to Vice-Admiral Lord Nelson, showcasing personal artefacts and chronicling his extraordinary naval career.
- Trafalgar Sail: The original sail from HMS Victory, remarkably preserved and dramatically displayed.
- The Sailing Navy Gallery: A collection focused on the age of sail, featuring figureheads, navigation tools, and the daily life of sailors.
- Hear My Story: A powerful exhibition sharing first-hand accounts from Royal Navy personnel across the last century.
- Worlds Beneath the Waves: A deep dive into naval exploration and the scientific expeditions that changed our understanding of the oceans.
Key Experiences
- Victory Live: The Big Repair: Watch conservators at work, carefully restoring HMS Victory in an ongoing live conservation project.
- Action Stations: A hands-on experience where visitors can engage in naval-themed challenges and simulations.
Beyond the Museum
The broader Portsmouth Historic Dockyard offers even more to explore, including the Mary Rose Museum, the Royal Navy Submarine Museum, Explosion! Museum of Naval Firepower, and traditional boatbuilding at Boathouse 4. Visitors can also enjoy harbour tours offering views of modern Royal Navy vessels.
A Legacy of Exploration and Inspiration
Drawing visitors from around the world, the National Museum of the Royal Navy Portsmouth captures the spirit of Britain’s naval dominance and exploration. With its blend of historic ships, engaging exhibits, and a deep commitment to preserving maritime history, it promises an unforgettable journey for history lovers, families, and adventurers alike.
JAM Duo were delighted to be part of a special event at the museum on Friday 30 May 2025 where we provided music as a backdrop to a special Bridgerton event.
On Friday, 30 May 2025, the National Museum of the Royal Navy Portsmouth hosted a charming “Queen Charlotte’s Tea Party Extravaganza,” a special Bridgerton-themed event held to coincide with International Museums Day.
🎀 Event Highlights
- Regency Tea Party Vibes
Guests were invited to don period-inspired attire—complete with bonnets and waistcoats—and immerse themselves in a genteel afternoon tea experience. As the museum’s Instagram teased, “come back and join us wearing your t‑shirt on Friday 30 May 2025 to strut your stuff at Queen Charlotte’s Tea Party Extravaganza” - Historical Flair Meets Bridgerton Style
With nods to Queen Charlotte and Bridgerton’s elegant Regency aesthetics, the event beautifully blended the grandeur of naval heritage and the refined courtly style of Netflix’s hit series. An Instagram post described it as stepping “into a world of elegance and…” . - Extra Touches & Exhibits
The event marked the unveiling of newly conserved naval figureheads in nearby Boathouse 4 as part of the “Figurehead Finale,” held the same day from 11am to 3pm. This gave attendees a chance to appreciate restored maritime artifacts before or after tea
