Royal Navy Submarine Museum Gosport
Explore historic submarines like HMS Alliance and HMS Holland, and dive into the science of underwater warfare.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Royal Navy Submarine Museum Gosport
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore historic submarines like HMS Alliance and HMS Holland, and dive into the science of underwater warfare.
"A truly exceptional museum full of interesting exhibits, one of a kind pieces and all well laid out."
🚢 Water Bus Included
Your ticket often includes a water bus from Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Enjoy the scenic ride!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
You can easily spend 3+ hours exploring the submarines and exhibits.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
HMS Alliance
Onboard the submarine
Explore a 1940s submarine, a unique chance to step back in time and experience life underwater.
HMS Holland
Museum gallery
Marvel at the oldest surviving submarine, built in 1904, a testament to early naval innovation.
Interactive Displays
Main museum
Engage with science exhibits and learn about submarine history through hands-on activities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to the Submarines
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
I'm planning a spontaneous visit to the UK. Which are the must-see naval museums you can recommend?
🚢 Water Bus Included
Your ticket often includes a water bus from Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Enjoy the scenic ride!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
You can easily spend 3+ hours exploring the submarines and exhibits.
Went to the Submarine Museum the other day and went in the HMS Alliance
Where can I see a submarine in London?
🙋♀️ Chat with Volunteers
The volunteer guides are incredibly knowledgeable and make the tours engaging.
📸 Periscope Fun
Don't miss the chance to play with the periscopes – it's a hit with all ages!
HMS Alliance at the Royal Navy Submarine museum.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Water Bus Included
Your ticket often includes a water bus from Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Enjoy the scenic ride!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
You can easily spend 3+ hours exploring the submarines and exhibits.
🙋♀️ Chat with Volunteers
The volunteer guides are incredibly knowledgeable and make the tours engaging.
📸 Periscope Fun
Don't miss the chance to play with the periscopes – it's a hit with all ages!
☕ Refreshments Available
There's a good coffee booth and a small cafe on-site for snacks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Royal Navy Submarine Museum for its unique collection, especially the chance to explore HMS Alliance and the historic HMS Holland. The knowledgeable volunteers and interactive exhibits are frequently highlighted as major positives, making it an engaging experience for all ages. Some note that the interior spaces can be cramped, which is inherent to submarine life.
"Really interesting museum, have to admit didn't spend too long in the main museum, most of the visit was concentrated on HMS Holland, amazed a submarine this old has survived, houses in a brilliant gallery. HMS Alliance, was really great to look around, there aren't many places you can go on board and explore a 1940's submarine, bit cramped, but well worth it and the submariner on board was really helpful with questions. If you are visiting the dockyard, well worth popping over and having a look around."
Scott B
"Truly exceptional museum full of interesting exhibits, one of a kind peices and all well laid out with just the right level of explanation.
Highlights are HMS Conquerors captains cabin, the Jolly Roger flags and HMS Holland.
An easy 5 stars and the best of Portsmouth Historic Dockyard Explorer Ticket"
stevie bowen
"Worth doing to learn about the history of submarines. Tour over HMS Aliance aswell as the Holland submarine which was built in 1904. Museum is interesting and some of it is interactive too. The staff are very knowledgeable and friendly too. The view over Portsmouth Harbour is nice from the Gosport side. If you buy an Ultimate explorer ticket at the Historic dockyard naval museum, the submarine museum is included along with the water bus that takes you to the submarine museum directly. You board the water bus alongside the harbour tour boat which is also well worth doing and again is included in the ultimate explorer ticket price. You can visit multiple times with one of these tickets so if this is your thing, it's well worth doing."
Jan Bone
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is in Gosport, across Portsmouth Harbour. The easiest way is to travel to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and take the included water bus shuttle. This is often part of an 'Ultimate Explorer Ticket'.
Yes, there is free parking available close to the museum in Gosport.
No, the museum is across the harbour in Gosport. You'll need to use the water bus or another ferry service.
The water bus is the most convenient and included option with many tickets. It runs regularly and offers nice harbour views.
Yes, you can reach Gosport by bus or ferry, and the museum is a short walk from the ferry terminal.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Often, entry is included with tickets for Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, especially the 'Ultimate Explorer Ticket'. Check your ticket details.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Royal Navy Submarine Museum website for the most up-to-date information.
Discounts may be available for families, seniors, and groups. Look for package deals or annual passes that might offer savings.
While often bundled, it's possible to purchase separate entry tickets directly for the Submarine Museum.
Yes, the museum is typically included in the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard Explorer Ticket, which is a great value.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore HMS Alliance and HMS Holland submarines, see captain's cabins, Jolly Roger flags, and interactive displays about submarine history.
Tours are often led by knowledgeable volunteers who provide fascinating insights and answer questions.
Absolutely! Interactive exhibits, periscopes, and the chance to explore real submarines make it very engaging for kids.
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours, but you could easily spend longer if you're deeply interested in naval history.
Photography is generally allowed, but always check for any specific restrictions inside the submarines or exhibits.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a small cafe and a coffee booth on-site offering refreshments and snacks.
Picnic areas might be available, but it's best to confirm with the museum staff. Otherwise, utilize the on-site cafe.
There are dining options in Gosport town centre, a short walk from the museum, offering various cuisines.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the imposing exterior of HMS Alliance, the historic HMS Holland, and the unique interior shots of the submarines.
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the submarines, but be mindful of others and any posted signs.
Daylight hours offer the best natural light. Consider visiting on a clear day for vibrant shots of the vessels and harbour.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Volunteers are often great with children, making the tours engaging and answering their endless questions. Pro-tip: Consider visiting during quieter times to allow children more freedom to explore without feeling rushed. The museum's location across the harbour also adds an element of adventure with the water bus ride.
🤓 History Buffs & Naval Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to see unique artifacts like Jolly Roger flags and explore the intricacies of submarine design. The museum offers a comprehensive journey through the evolution of the silent service, making it a highly rewarding visit for enthusiasts.
📸 Photography Lovers
While interiors can be dimly lit, they offer a moody, authentic feel. Remember to check for any photography restrictions, but generally, you'll find plenty of compelling subjects to fill your camera roll.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring HMS Alliance: A 1940s Submarine Experience
The sheer ingenuity required to operate such a vessel in the mid-20th century is astounding. From the engine room to the control spaces, every inch of HMS Alliance tells a story of bravery, innovation, and sacrifice. It's a powerful reminder of the Royal Navy's history and the silent service's crucial role.
Key takeaway: Don't rush your exploration of HMS Alliance. Take your time, ask questions, and absorb the atmosphere of this historic warship. It's an immersive journey into naval history.
The Historic HMS Holland: A Pioneer of Submarine Technology
Visitors are often amazed by the simplicity and scale of HMS Holland compared to modern submarines. It highlights the rapid technological advancements in submarine design over the decades. The museum provides excellent context on its operational life and its significance in the development of naval technology.
Why it's special: Seeing HMS Holland offers a direct connection to the origins of submarine warfare. It's a tangible link to a past era of naval innovation and a must-see for anyone interested in military history.
Interactive Learning and Science Displays
These displays cover a range of topics, from sonar technology and navigation to the daily life of submariners. They provide a broader understanding of what it takes to operate a submarine and the crucial role they play. The explanations are usually clear and concise, making complex subjects accessible.
Tip for families: These interactive elements are perfect for keeping children entertained and learning simultaneously. They complement the experience of exploring the actual submarines by providing the 'why' and 'how' behind the technology.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit