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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasantly quiet

Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower
Best Time
Pleasantly quiet

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the history and impact of naval firepower through engaging exhibits and short films in this focused Gosport museum.
"Good museum if a little small. If it's for you, it's probably the best in class."

🚢 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Interactive Exhibits
Main Exhibition Halls
Engage with history through hands-on displays that bring naval firepower to life.

History Films
Screening Rooms
Short, impactful films delve into the history and social consequences of naval warfare.

Night Hunters Building
Adjacent Building
Explore the fascinating world of naval night warfare and its technological advancements.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Gosport
Focus Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 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.
☕ Relax at the Cafe
Enjoy light snacks, coffee, or a drink on the terrace. Dog-friendly too!
🍺 Craft Beer Stop
Check out the craft beer bar on-site for a refreshing pint after your visit.
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.
🎟️ Combo Ticket Value
Consider a joint ticket for access to the dockyard and submarine museum too.
☕ Relax at the Cafe
Enjoy light snacks, coffee, or a drink on the terrace. Dog-friendly too!
🍺 Craft Beer Stop
Check out the craft beer bar on-site for a refreshing pint after your visit.
⚠️ Check Exhibit Status
Some 'hands-on' exhibits may not be operational; check in advance if this is a concern.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, free and easy parking is available at the museum, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
The museum is a short walk from the Gosport ferry terminal, making it accessible for those arriving via public transport.
Water taxi operating hours can vary, so it's advisable to check their schedule in advance, especially if planning an early or late visit.
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.
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.
Booking tickets online in advance is usually recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your entry and potentially save time.
Museum opening hours typically vary by season. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times.
Concessionary rates for seniors, students, and sometimes families are often available. Please verify these on the museum's official ticketing page.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum focuses on naval firepower, with interactive displays, historical films, and exhibits detailing the history and social impact of naval warfare.
The museum offers interactive displays, though some 'hands-on' exhibits may occasionally be out of order.
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.
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.
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.
The cafe offers light snacks and is noted for good quality items like decaf lattes and raspberry flapjacks.
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.
The cafe area offers outside seating which is dog-friendly, making it a pleasant spot for visitors with pets.
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.
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.
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.
Morning light can be soft and pleasant for exterior shots. Consider the time of day for the best lighting on the harbour views.
Tripod usage is often restricted in museums to prevent damage to exhibits and to allow for visitor flow. Check the museum's specific policy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
⚓ History Buffs & Naval Enthusiasts
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.
🚶 Day-Trippers from Portsmouth
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Gosport: The Water Taxi Experience
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.
Maximizing Your Visit: Combo Tickets and Nearby Attractions
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.
On-Site Amenities: Dining and Relaxation
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.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit