South East - Hampshire

Since opening to the public almost 100 years ago, HMS Victory remains the biggest draw at the heart of the historic dockyard. Gone are the original gold and black paint scheme, it’s back to the authentic ochre and graphite for this stunning ship which has been painstakingly restored to her original Battle of Trafalgar colours. Groups can follow in Nelson’s footsteps during the build up to the famous battle and recreate the actions on the fateful day when he led the fleet to victory, but paid the ultimate price in doing so. Follow the story deck by deck, hour by hour and relive the exhilarating events and reflect on the great leader’s last words and actions. And there is even more of the ship to see, with over 80% more accessible space opened up.  

HMS Warrior proudly stands watch at the entrance to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and groups can take a trip back to the Victorian era by climbing on-board the only surviving member of Queen Victoria’s Black Battle Fleet. Powered by steam and sail, she was the largest, fastest and most powerful ship of her day and had a profound effect on naval architecture. Visitors now board the ship as it carries out its round Britain tour of 1863, with actors bringing it to life and providing a chance to see the human face of Warrior. New parts of the ship are open to visitors for the first time in a new interpretation of the iconic ironclad warship. 

In contrast, groups can also descend into No.1 Dock and step aboard HMS M.33 the unique survivor of the Battle of Gallipoli in 1915. Stunning interpretation, including an immersive battle experience, brings M33’s history alive telling the stories of the men who served on board, and the bloody history of the First World War Gallipoli campaign.

The National Museum of the Royal Navy is one of the country’s leading maritime museums. It’s the only museum devoted to the ships of the Royal Navy and the men and women who served on board.  Visitors can see, touch and hear the history of the Royal Navy through a rich collection of artefacts and award-winning exhibitions. The various galleries on offer give you chance to explore the Royal Navy in different eras.

Finally, groups love the 45 minute-long Harbour Tour, which is one of the most popular things to do at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, and not just when the sun is shining! This mini-excursion takes visitors around Portsmouth Harbour and the naval dockyard providing unrivalled views of the modern Royal Navy, historical sights, and areas of the Solent coastline.