Find family fun at The Mary Rose

It’s summer and that means families are hunting for fun days out that don’t cost the earth and everyone can enjoy.

But while some attractions are perfect for youngsters, parents can sometimes be left on the side lines while the little ones enjoy themselves.

However, there are great family days out which are just as entertaining for mum, dad, little ones and older siblings to enjoy.

Discover what life was like in the 16th century.

Portsmouth’s Mary Rose Museum is ideal – a fascinating glimpse into Tudor times for mums and dads, packed with gory facts for fans of ‘horrible history’ and with lots of fun, interactive features for little ones. Here’s why it’s a great family day out:

You can travel back in timeThe Mary Rose, King Henry VIII’s flagship, is a fascinating time capsule of 16th century life. It’s far from ‘dusty’ history though, the past is brought to life with vivid audio-visual presentations that bring Tudor life within touching distance.

It’s hard not to be swept away by the spectacle of walking through the galleries, with the decks of the Mary Rose on one side, and a treasure trove of artefacts on the other.

There’s plenty of hands-on funSome 19,000 objects have been retrieved from the Mary Rose, and there are lots of opportunities for young ones to get close to them, to touch and even smell them.

Your little ones will love the interactive activities.

They can hold the ship’s rope and smell the original pitch that is still on it, pull a replica longbow and dress up as a Tudor. There’s even a chance for a chat and a selfie with Henry VIII.

This summer, LEGO® brick fans can help recreate Portsmouth as it was in 1545 and make a brick mini model to take home. ‘Tudor England – Brick by Brick’ runs until September 2nd.

It can be suitably goryOlder children can be tough to please, but there’s plenty to stimulate their interest.

The surgeon’s table reveals the gruesome instruments used by the ship’s doctor, while the collection of crew’s clothes and possessions brings those on board back to life.

There’s also the chance to meet Hatch – the ship’s dog, whose skeleton is one of the most popular exhibits.

There’s something new to discoverWith so much to see, it’s worth a return visit. Just finding out how the historic vessel was raised is worth a visit in itself! Tickets are valid for 12 months from date of purchase.

Rated top of TripAdvisor’s list of things to do in Portsmouth, a visit is even better value for families this summer, with a special ‘kids go free’ offer running from now until September 2nd.

Find out how The Mary Rose could be your perfect family day out at www.maryrose.org.