Family summer holiday ideas at Portsmouth’s Dockyard

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is set to be a hive of activity throughout the summer holidays, with an exciting schedule of events for the whole family to enjoy.

Immerse yourself in the lives of Mary Rose’s Tudor crew members or visit the National Museum of the Royal Navy for themed activities. Explore historical ships and collections and discover the new exhibition on show that celebrates The Queen's loyal service to the Royal Navy.

Travel back in time to 16th century England at the Mary Rose – which is home to the world’s largest collection of Tudor artefacts – and see Henry VIII’s favourite warship.

Explore HMS Victory and walk in the footsteps of Vice-Admiral Lord Nelson during the Battle of Trafalgar, brought to life by a stirring audio guide. Conservation works to Victory offer a once-in-a-generation opportunity to see under the skin of a First-Rate ship.

The Nation’s Flagship gallery tells her story through a mixture of cinematic film, interactives, and newly displayed objects.

Marvel at the sheer scale of HMS Warrior, the largest and fastest of all Royal Navy ships that dominated Queen Victoria’s Black Battlefleet. Catch a glimpse of the Round-Britain tour brought to life by the Victorian characters on board.

Relive the challenging conditions aboard HMS M.33, the First World War’s only surviving ‘lucky ship’ from the Gallipoli Campaign.

Put your speed and agility to the test in the interactive, fun-packed Action Stations. Take on the Commando Experience and get your game face on as you experience training with the Royal Marines or engage in an intense game of Laser Quest where you will come face-to-face with dynamic lighting effects, billowing smoke and an exhilarating atmosphere.

Enhance your visit with a Harbour Tour or travel to their Gosport sites on the Waterbus. Walk the narrow confines of HMS Alliance at the Royal Navy Submarine Museum and wander around the new permanent gallery at the Explosion! Museum of Naval Firepower. The Night Hunters: The Royal Navy’s Coastal Forces at War exhibition pays tribute to the high-risk, high-octane operations of the coastal forces in both world wars.

There are a variety of engaging children’s workshops taking place over the summer holidays, as well as fun and informative resources and events for families and interactive displays for all ages. Entry to all events is free with a valid ticket.

And the best part? With an Ultimate Explorer ticket, you can visit now and keep coming back for the whole year. Ultimate Explorer prices start from £39 per adult and £29 per child – book online to save on your ticket!

For more information or to book please visit https://www.historicdockyard.co.uk/