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Welcome to Portsmouth Historic Quarter.

We invite you to explore our freely accessible historic buildings, boats and spaces around Portsmouth Harbour and to enjoy the rich history and culture in our care.

Discover the maritime heritage of our sites at the Historic Dockyard in Portsmouth and Priddy’s Hard in Gosport.

Our Latest Project:

#F8 PRIDE PROJECT 

 

In 2025, the UK marks 25 years since the ban on LGBTQ+ people serving openly in the Armed Forces was lifted. Until 2000, being openly lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender in the military was grounds for dismissal. LGBTQ+ personnel faced intrusive investigations, discharge without honours, and the loss of medals, pensions, and dignity. Despite this, many served with courage and distinction, forced to hide who they were to protect their careers, safety, and fellow service members. 

Landing Craft F8 is a powerful piece of Falklands history – a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and service. This year, to mark the 25th anniversary of the lifting of the ban and as Portsmouth hosts UK Pride, F8 becomes a floating tribute to all who served, including those forced to serve in silence. 

In partnership with Fighting With Pride, a charity led by LGBTQ+ veterans, F8 is wrapped in a temporary rainbow design by artist Angela Chick. Inspired by the original 8-colour Pride flag and military symbolism, the design adds to – not replaces – the vessel’s history. It honours those excluded from recognition and sparks reflection on progress, remembrance, and inclusion within the military. This ensures no veteran is erased from their own story. 

Read more here: https://portsmouthhq.org/vessels/landing-craft-foxtrot-8

Things To Do

You can enjoy Portsmouth Historic Quarter for free: explore acres of historic places and spaces in Portsmouth and at Priddy’s Hard in Gosport, discover local artists, watch boat restoration in Boathouse 4, experience the exhibition in Boathouse 7, choose from the many eateries and soak up the atmosphere surrounded by living history.

Watch this space for the latest events, activities and pop ups happening across PHQ.

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SHE_SEES Exhibition

Experience the free, thought provoking SHE_SEES exhibition hosted in Boathouse 4, uncovering the extensive history of trailblazing female voices in the maritime industry.

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Boathouse 7 Arcade

Step back in time at our seaside arcade! Play vintage grabby games and early macabre machines, or go big and consult the mysterious fortune teller.

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Boathouse 4 Restaurant

With stunning views across the harbour and a focus on fresh and local ingredients, Boathouse 4 Restaurant offers a contemporary menu perfect for the whole family to enjoy.

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Priddy's Hard Picnic

Escape the hustle and bustle to enjoy an al fresco lunch at our historic and tranquil Priddy's Hard site. Forgot your picnic? Stop in at the Powder Monkey Taphouse for a meal overlooking the harbour.

Explore The Quarter

Who We Are

As custodians of historic buildings, boats and spaces in and around Portsmouth Harbour, we breathe new life into this Naval heritage, creating energy and vibrancy, ensuring that it is sustainable and accessible for all.

We are an ambitious and collaborative charity. We actively create authentic, educational and enjoyable places, experiences and opportunities.

Portsmouth Historic Quarter develops Portsmouth Harbour’s vibrant maritime heritage culture: through building regeneration, boat restoration, volunteer activity and community collaboration. We’re committed to preserving our rich maritime and industrial legacy. Through our dedication to heritage, arts and culture, we’re opening new horizons and enriching lives.

Our Charity

Visit Ticketed Attractions

While access to the Dockyard site is free, delve deeper still into history with ticketed attractions including HMS Victory, HMS Warrior, and the Mary Rose Museum. Walk through historic ships, experience interactive exhibits and immersive displays and see world class collections to make your visit to the dockyard unforgettable.

For more information on the Ultimate Explorer ticket, which grants year-round access to these attractions, visit Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.

historicdockyard.co.uk

Charters & Hire

Embark on a voyage through history with our charter and hire services.

Experience the thrill of riding aboard operational craft such as Motor Gun Boat 81 (MGB 81), commissioned in 1942 and part of the D-Day Normandy landings. Discover HSL 102, an heroic vessel that saved 38 aircrew in 1941 while patrolling the English Channel.

Take a ride on board our landing craft – the fully accessible Falklands conflict veteran F8, offering a truly unique perspective of Portsmouth Harbour.

Contact Us now to charter your trip, or follow the link below for more information.

 

Find out more

Social channels

For heritage, culture, events, art, community and culinary content:

Instagram: @portsmouth.historic.quarter

Facebook: @PortsmouthHistoricQuarter

X: PortsmouthHQ

For boats insights, volunteer project updates and BH4 events:

Instagram: @boathouseno_4

Facebook: Boathouse4

X: Boathouse_4

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How to get here

The heritage sites of PHQ are well connected by public transport and easily accessible by road:

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

  • Portsmouth Harbour train station (5 min walk)
  • The Hard Interchange bus station (5 min walk)
  • PO1 3GW carpark (5 min walk)
    Make sure to access Portsmouth Historic Dockyard via Queen Street
    Please follow the brown tourism signs once you are in Portsmouth
    Do not attempt to enter via Trafalgar Gate on the Naval Base

Priddy's Hard

  • Gosport Ferry Terminal (25 min walk)
  • PO12 4LE (Follow signs for Priddy’s Hard)
  • Waterbus from Portsmouth Historic Dockyard – please check PHD website for timings as they vary seasonally
Explore the Quarter