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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.

Things To Do

Situated across Portsmouth and Priddy’s Hard you can enjoy Portsmouth Historic Quarter for free: explore acres of historic places and spaces, 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 of this remarkable historic setting.

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

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Boathouse 4 Exhibition

Visit the free Boathouse 4 exhibition to discover our play Launch boat, a replica of one of our operational craft, or test your strength and learn how block and tackle systems can make lifting even the heaviest of boats the easiest of tasks!

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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)

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