Royal Armouries: Fort Nelson Portsdown Hill Road, Portsmouth, Fareham PO17 6AN
About the Business
Welcome to the Royal Armouries: Fort Nelson, an institution that stands as a testament to the incredible history and legacy of the British military. Located atop the picturesque Portsdown Hill Rd, Portchester in the charming coastal town of Fareham in Portsmouth, the Fort Nelson is a one-of-a-kind establishment, museum, point of interest, and tourist attraction that's bound to leave you mesmerized with its countless fascinating artefacts.
Fort Nelson is one of five national museums of arms, armour and artillery under The Royal Armouries, which is committed to the interpretation and preservation of military history. The museum boasts a collection of over 75,000 objects and artefacts, including firearms, swords, armour, and artillery, spanning the period from antiquity to the present-day. The museum's exhibits provide a fascinating insight into the ever-evolving technologies and tactics of warfare throughout history, exemplifying the human quest for superiority and power.
One of the most impressive aspects of Fort Nelson is the artillery collection that's incomparable in Europe. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience the power and sound of the vast displays of artillery, including the famous WWII 25 pounder gun, coastal defence guns, and even an enormous 200-tonne railway gun, so massive that it still has to be displayed outside! Visitors can also explore the vast historical grounds, complete with ramparts that served as a bastion protecting Britain from attack during the Napoleonic Wars.
The museum's educational and interactive exhibitions are perfect for people of all ages, uniting scholarly inquiry with enthralling immersive experiences. Visitors can take part in artillery firing demonstrations, observe conserved historical objects, or take themed tours, learning from experts and historians along the way. Fort Nelson is also home to an engaging programme of events, ranging from historical tours and talks to firework displays and themed family activities.
Fort Nelson is a place like no other, where visitors experience history, technology, and communication in a dynamic and vibrant way. Whether a history buff, military enthusiast, or just keen to learn something new, Fort Nelson is a must-visit attraction that'll leave a lasting impression. Get ready to embark on an exciting journey through centuries of military history and explore the Royal Armouries' unique collection of weapons and equipment on display.
Photos
Location & Phone number
Fort Nelson, Portsdown Hill Rd, Portchester, Portsmouth, Fareham PO17 6AN, United Kingdom
Hours open
Monday:
10:00 - 17:00
Tuesday:
10:00 - 17:00
Wednesday:
10:00 - 17:00
Thursday:
10:00 - 17:00
Friday:
10:00 - 17:00
Saturday:
10:00 - 17:00
Sunday:
10:00 - 17:00
Reviews
"Really good day out for the family, parking available, friendly helpful staff, disabled friendly lovely little cafe there and good shop to buy memorabilia of your visit. Stroll through the tunnels and see weaponry through the ages. Very informative and enjoyable for all. Free entry parking is about £3. Disabled parking free. Definitely worth a visit."
"Free entry, all you have to pay for is the parking and if your kids want to go on the assault course. Well worth paying for as the kids have loads of fun, climbing and crawling! A good day out for kids including younger tots as there is plenty of climbing and tunnels for them to explore. Probably not the best for those with limited mobility although they do have wheelchair routes and a lift. The indoor exhibits are well thought out with interesting signage and interactive sounds/displays. They tell the story of the fort and artillery. If you are interested in artillery then the range of exhibits will impress. From some of the world's earliest artillery pieces up to the Iraqi super gun. Our favourite is the railway gun. All in all a good cheap day out for the family, especially when the sun is shining. Plenty of parking is available."
"Exceptional museum on portsdown hill, still can't believe it's free for entry. Lovely cafe at start. Loads of exhibits in the fort itself. Tells the story of how and why they were built. Also has the Falklands 40 year exhibit. There is a large ground to explore outside with a small refreshment bar where you purchase tickets for the junior assault course. All in all a great day out for all the family."
"Was on my way back to my accommodation after two days exploring the historic dockyard in Portsmouth but whilst passing Fort Nelson I had an hour before they closed. An hour isn’t enough to do this large complex justice but I had a quick look around. Railway gun is huge. Good exhibition of historic artillery, guns from Waterloo, Soviet Union etc. Good views from the rear ramparts. The tunnels are fun. Interactive activities for kids like dressing up & packing a soldiers kit. This would make a good free day out no question."
"Very big museum and lots to do. Very friendly staff and helpful. Free of charge. My family joy every minute. Big tunnels underground. Lots and lots to do. Lovely clean toilets. Free parking. Armchair friendly."
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