Royal Marines Museum

Royal Marines Museum
Royal Marines Museum
Royal Marines Museum
Royal Marines Museum
Royal Marines Museum


The Royal Navy's elite military unit is celebrated and remembered on the grounds of a stunning Victorian building facing the waterfront.

Portsmouth's Royal Marines Museum focuses on the experiences of Britain’s sea-going soldiers. Chronicling the history of the Marines from their origins in 1664 as sea soldiers to their present-day status as famous amphibious units, the museum offers interactive exhibits and thoughtful displays. Discover the remarkable history of the Royal Marines through these award-winning exhibits.

Before going inside, marvel at the elegant symmetry of the Victorian building's exterior. This structure was once an officers' mess for the marines before it became a museum. The picturesque waterfront location makes this museum a popular venue for weddings and conferences.

Read stories of heroism in the medal room, where thousands of awards document the brave acts of the marines throughout history. Displays in this section also spotlight the 10 marines who have been given the British military's most prestigious honour, the Victoria Cross.

Watch videos of the marines in action today on operations across the world. Exhibits also cover 20th-century missions including D-Day and the Falklands conflict. Wander the gallery section of the museum, where paintings honour the courage of marines in creative ways.

Pretend to be a marine for the day at the interactive exhibits throughout the museum. Experience what it’s like to fire a gun at the rifle simulator and follow the progress of a recruit as he is trained and deployed. A recreation of a wartime kitchen also offers insight into what life was like during the war.

The museum regularly runs unique events so check to see if any are happening while you’re here. Run assault courses to become as fit as a marine or listen to their concert band performing.

The Royal Marines Museum is next to the water in Southsea. Parking is available on-site. Purchase an individual ticket or enter using a Portsmouth Historic Dockyards combination ticket, which includes entry to several of the city’s exciting and diverse naval attractions.

Plan a trip to see Royal Marines Museum

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Things to do near Royal Marines Museum

At the Royal Marines Museum in Portsmouth, visitors can enjoy a range of activities including scenic ferry rides and a round of golf nearby. The museum itself offers fascinating exhibits on the history and achievements of the Royal Marines, making it a captivating stop for history enthusiasts. Be sure to explore the surrounding area for more local attractions and experiences during your visit.

Shopping

The nearest shopping destination is Gunwharf Quays, only 1.2km from the Royal Marines Museum, offering a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, consider WestQuay Shopping Centre, located 10.6km away, for a larger selection of high street brands and dining options.

Recreation

At Fratton Park, immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of live sports events, just 1.6km from the museum. For a family-friendly experience, visit the Pyramids Centre for aquatic fun, located two miles away. Alternatively, enjoy vibrant live music at the Wedgewood Rooms, also 1.6km away.

Adventure

For exhilarating water sports, visit Hayling Island Sailing Club, located 3.1km from the Royal Marines Museum, offering vibrant outdoor vibes. Alternatively, CBK Hayling Island and Nomad Sailing, both 1.9km away, promise thrilling adventures on the water, perfect for adrenaline seekers.

Nightlife

Experience a vibrant nightlife near the Royal Marines Museum with a visit to Kings Theatre, just 1.6km away, offering captivating performances. Alternatively, enjoy family fun at Leisure Island arcade, also 1.6km away, or immerse yourself in culture at the New Theatre Royal, two miles away.

Find the best attractions near Royal Marines Museum

When visiting the Royal Marines Museum in Portsmouth, you'll find a range of attractions to explore, including beautiful beaches, event venues, and marinas. This area is perfect for those seeking cultural experiences and outdoor activities. Don't miss the opportunity to delve into military history at the museum, alongside other fascinating military museums nearby. Whether you're interested in the rich history or simply enjoying the coastal scenery, there's plenty to do around the museum.

  • HMS Victory: Step aboard the world's oldest naval ship still in commission, HMS Victory. This iconic vessel, which played a pivotal role in the Battle of Trafalgar, offers a glimpse into maritime history. Explore its decks, learn about life at sea, and appreciate its stunning craftsmanship.
  • Portsmouth Guildhall: A grand venue for events and conferences, Portsmouth Guildhall boasts impressive architecture and a rich history. Attend a concert or exhibition in this cultural hub, where the vibrant atmosphere invites both business and leisure activities.
  • University of Portsmouth: With its stunning historic buildings and modern facilities, the University of Portsmouth reflects a blend of tradition and innovation. Wander through its campus, enjoy the cultural vibes, and discover its significant contributions to education and research.

Best time to go to Royal Marines Museum

The best time to visit Royal Marines Museum is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July and August are its hottest month on average. At the time of August, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny. January and February are its coolest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January43.3°F (6.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February43.3°F (6.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March45.7°F (7.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
April49.1°F (9.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May54.1°F (12.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
June59.5°F (15.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July63.1°F (17.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August63.1°F (17.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September60.4°F (15.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November50.0°F (10.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December46.0°F (7.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Royal Marines Museum

To save money during your visit to the Royal Marines Museum in Portsmouth, consider travelling between January and March when accommodation prices are lower. Mondays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia’s search tool to find eco-certified hotels and sort by price for the best deals. You can also save by booking your hotel, flights, and activities as a package. Additionally, explore free activities in the area to further enhance your budget-friendly trip.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Royal Marines Museum are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Royal Marines Museum is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Royal Marines Museum is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking at the Royal Marines Museum with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.