Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower
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Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower

4.5
·1k reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore the history and impact of naval firepower through engaging exhibits and short films in this focused Gosport museum.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Tuesday mornings

Pleasantly quiet

CrowdLow
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Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower

Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower

Best Time

Tuesday mornings

Pleasantly quiet

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the history and impact of naval firepower through engaging exhibits and short films in this focused Gosport museum.

4.5
(1k reviews)

"Good museum if a little small. If it's for you, it's probably the best in class."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚢 Water Taxi Adventure

Take the water taxi from Portsmouth to Gosport for a scenic and quick journey to the museum.

🎟️ Combo Ticket Value

Consider a joint ticket for access to the dockyard and submarine museum too.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Interactive Exhibits

Interactive Exhibits

Main Exhibition Halls

Engage with history through hands-on displays that bring naval firepower to life.

History Films

History Films

Screening Rooms

Short, impactful films delve into the history and social consequences of naval warfare.

Night Hunters Building

Night Hunters Building

Adjacent Building

Explore the fascinating world of naval night warfare and its technological advancements.

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Planning Your Visit

Getting to Gosport

Accessing the Explosion Museum in Gosport involves crossing Portsmouth Harbour. Many visitors opt for the water taxi from Portsmouth, which is a scenic and efficient route. Consider this journey part of the experience!

Focus Your Visit

While engaging, the museum is on the smaller side. If naval history is your passion, it's top-tier. For a broader experience, consider combining it with the nearby dockyard and submarine museum on a joint ticket.

Best Times

When
Tuesday mornings
Why
Pleasantly quiet
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays outside school holidays
Why
Fewer crowds, better experience
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

I can’t believe I got this on camera #ships #maritimehistory
@roberttolppi
823.5K likes • 11.6M views

🚢 Water Taxi Adventure

Take the water taxi from Portsmouth to Gosport for a scenic and quick journey to the museum. Reddit

🎟️ Combo Ticket Value

Consider a joint ticket for access to the dockyard and submarine museum too. Reddit

The Grand Magazine in the Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower in Gosport. Built in 1775, it’s nearly 250 years old. #portsmouth #navalhistory #grandmagazine
enortonhistory
16 likes • 203 views
🌊 The Waterbus at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard ⚓ Set sail on our waterbus service for easy travel between Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, The Royal Navy Submarine Museum, and Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower. ☀️ It's what sunny Sundays are made for.
phdockyard
84 likes • 1.3K views

☕ Relax at the Cafe

Enjoy light snacks, coffee, or a drink on the terrace. Dog-friendly too! Reddit

🍺 Craft Beer Stop

Check out the craft beer bar on-site for a refreshing pint after your visit. Reddit

Last day of @gosportheritage Open Days this afternoon you can visit Holy Trinity Church, see a reenactment of recapture of a model French village at @Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower, visit one of the last Compton Cinema organs at Thornton Halls and visit the Henry Cook exhibition at Imagination Refinery at the Ferry end of the High Street https://www.gosportheritage.co.uk/2024-events/ Thank...
gosportheritage
5 likes • 98 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚢 Water Taxi Adventure

Take the water taxi from Portsmouth to Gosport for a scenic and quick journey to the museum. Reddit

🎟️ Combo Ticket Value

Consider a joint ticket for access to the dockyard and submarine museum too. Reddit

☕ Relax at the Cafe

Enjoy light snacks, coffee, or a drink on the terrace. Dog-friendly too! Reddit

🍺 Craft Beer Stop

Check out the craft beer bar on-site for a refreshing pint after your visit. Reddit

⚠️ Check Exhibit Status

Some 'hands-on' exhibits may not be operational; check in advance if this is a concern. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Explosion Museum a focused and well-organized experience, particularly for those interested in naval firepower. While some note it's on the smaller side, its quality content and helpful staff are frequently praised. The scenic water taxi ride and on-site cafe add to the positive overall impression.

"A great place to visit with many indoor exhibits along with short history films to watch. The staff here are polite
& helpfull to guide you round. There is a small cafe serving light snacks and tea , coffee and cold drinks. There is also a bar serving alchoholic drinks & soft drinks next to the cafe."

Gary Burton

"Good museum if a little small. As the content is quite focused it's worth checking if it's for you before making the trek but if it is for you it's probably the best in class.

All organised and thoroughly laid out telling a story

Pop over to the powder monkey pub before you leave for a decent pint."

stevie bowen

"Great trip over to Gosport on the water taxi. Museum was fairly busy. Quite interesting, disappointing that several of the 'hands-on' exhibits were not working. Lovely to sit on their terrace for a sandwich and coffee at lunchtime. Need more time here next visit to have a longer look in the Night Hunters building."

Issie JG

What People Like

Focused, quality content
Helpful and polite staff
Scenic water taxi access

What People Dislike

Museum size considered small
Some interactive exhibits not working

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most popular way is to take the water taxi across Portsmouth Harbour to Gosport. This offers a pleasant journey and convenient access to the museum. Reddit

Yes, free and easy parking is available at the museum, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

The museum is a short walk from the Gosport ferry terminal, making it accessible for those arriving via public transport. Reddit

Water taxi operating hours can vary, so it's advisable to check their schedule in advance, especially if planning an early or late visit. Reddit

The museum generally offers good accessibility, with indoor exhibits and facilities designed to accommodate visitors. Specific details can be confirmed with the museum directly.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices can vary. It's recommended to check the official Explosion Museum website for the most current ticket information and any potential discounts. Reddit

Yes, you can often purchase a combined ticket that includes entry to the Explosion Museum, the Royal Navy Submarine Museum, and Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, offering great value. Reddit

Booking tickets online in advance is usually recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your entry and potentially save time. Reddit

Museum opening hours typically vary by season. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times. Reddit

Concessionary rates for seniors, students, and sometimes families are often available. Please verify these on the museum's official ticketing page. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum focuses on naval firepower, with interactive displays, historical films, and exhibits detailing the history and social impact of naval warfare. Reddit

The museum offers interactive displays, though some 'hands-on' exhibits may occasionally be out of order. Reddit

While the museum itself is considered 'a tad small' by some, allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore. If combined with other sites, plan for a longer visit. Reddit

The interactive nature of some exhibits can appeal to children, but the focus on naval warfare might be more suited to older children and adults. Reddit

Photography policies can vary. It's best to check with museum staff or signage regarding whether photography is permitted, especially with flash.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe serving light snacks, tea, coffee, and cold drinks. They also have a bar serving alcoholic and soft drinks. Reddit

The cafe offers light snacks and is noted for good quality items like decaf lattes and raspberry flapjacks. Reddit

Yes, there's a separate craft beer place on the grounds that looked appealing, and the 'Powder Monkey' pub is recommended nearby for a pint. Reddit

The cafe area offers outside seating which is dog-friendly, making it a pleasant spot for visitors with pets. Reddit

While specific policies on outside food can vary, it's generally best to consume your own food in designated picnic areas if available, or outside the main museum facilities.

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the unique architecture of the museum buildings, the views across the harbour from the terrace, and any particularly striking exhibits. Reddit

Photography rules can change. It's always best to check for signage or ask staff if you're unsure about taking pictures inside the exhibition areas. Reddit

The museum's waterfront location offers opportunities for exterior shots, especially with the harbour and boats in the background. The terrace seating area also provides nice views. Reddit

Morning light can be soft and pleasant for exterior shots. Consider the time of day for the best lighting on the harbour views. Reddit

Tripod usage is often restricted in museums to prevent damage to exhibits and to allow for visitor flow. Check the museum's specific policy. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Explosion Museum offers a unique glimpse into naval history that can be engaging for older children interested in military technology. While some exhibits are interactive, it's worth noting that the core subject matter might be more appealing to older kids and teens rather than very young children. Consider pairing the visit with the more hands-on elements of the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard if you have a mixed-age group. Reddit

Look into the combined ticket options which often include other attractions that might have broader appeal for younger family members. The on-site cafe provides a convenient spot for a family break, and the outdoor seating is a bonus if the weather is good. Reddit

⚓ History Buffs & Naval Enthusiasts

For those with a deep interest in naval history and firepower, the Explosion Museum is a must-visit. Its focused content is described as 'probably the best in class' for its niche. You'll find detailed exhibits and short history films that delve into the mechanics and impact of naval warfare. Reddit

To truly immerse yourself, consider the combined ticket that includes the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and the Submarine Museum. This allows for a comprehensive exploration of naval heritage, covering different eras and types of vessels. Don't miss the 'Night Hunters' building for a specialized look at naval technology. Reddit

🚶 Day-Trippers from Portsmouth

If you're visiting Portsmouth and have a few hours to spare, the Explosion Museum is an easily accessible and worthwhile excursion. The water taxi ride across the harbour is a highlight in itself, offering scenic views and a quick journey to Gosport. Reddit

Plan for a focused visit of 1-2 hours to explore the museum's exhibits. You can easily combine this with a stop at the nearby Royal Navy Submarine Museum if time permits, especially if you opt for a combined ticket. Enjoy a coffee or a snack at the museum's cafe before heading back. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating to Gosport: The Water Taxi Experience

Reaching the Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower is an adventure in itself, as it's located across Portsmouth Harbour in Gosport. The most recommended and scenic way to make this journey is by using the water taxi. This short trip offers fantastic views of the harbour, the historic dockyard, and the surrounding coastline, turning your commute into a mini-excursion. Many visitors highlight this as a pleasant and efficient way to travel between the two locations. Reddit

When planning your trip, it's wise to check the water taxi's operating schedule, as times can vary. This ensures you can seamlessly integrate the ferry ride into your museum visit, whether you're arriving or departing. The convenience of the water taxi makes the museum easily accessible and adds a unique maritime flavour to your day out. Reddit

Maximizing Your Visit: Combo Tickets and Nearby Attractions

The Explosion Museum, while excellent, is described by some as 'a tad small' on its own. To get the most out of your visit to the area, consider purchasing a combined ticket. These often grant access to not only the Explosion Museum but also the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and the Royal Navy Submarine Museum, also located in Gosport. This approach offers significant value and allows you to explore a broader spectrum of naval history. Reddit

By bundling your tickets, you can efficiently plan a day or even two exploring the rich maritime heritage of the area. This is particularly beneficial if you're a history enthusiast or travelling with family who have diverse interests. The combined ticket strategy ensures you experience the best of what Portsmouth and Gosport have to offer in terms of naval attractions. Reddit

On-Site Amenities: Dining and Relaxation

The Explosion Museum provides convenient on-site amenities to enhance your visit. There's a cafe that serves light snacks, coffee, and cold drinks, perfect for a mid-visit refuel. Visitors have praised the quality of items like decaf lattes and raspberry flapjacks, noting the pleasant atmosphere of the tea room. Reddit

For those looking for something a bit different, there's also a bar serving alcoholic and soft drinks. Additionally, the museum grounds feature a separate craft beer place that looks inviting. For visitors with pets, the cafe's outside seating area is dog-friendly, offering a comfortable spot to relax with your furry companion. Reddit

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