Royal Armouries: Fort Nelson image

Royal Armouries: Fort Nelson

Tourist attraction Museum Historical landmark Event venue Wedding venue History museum Fortress War museum National museum Army museum

One of the Best Places To Visits in Winchester


Address

Fort Nelson, Portsdown Hill Rd, Portchester, Portsmouth, Fareham PO17 6AN, United Kingdom

Website

royalarmouries.org

Contact

+44 1329 233734

Rating on Google Maps

4.70 (3.4K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Thursday: 10 am to 4 pm
  • Friday: 10 am to 4 pm
  • Saturday: 10 am to 4 pm
  • Sunday: 10 am to 4 pm
  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: 10 am to 4 pm
  • Wednesday: 10 am to 4 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: visit (24) free (20) parking (18) great (14) family (14) history (13) tunnels (13) good (13) Great (13) exhibits (11)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Andrea H. 10 months ago on Google
    This place never disappoints! We're regular locals, it's a beautiful place to visit with the fantastic history. The views are also 👌 Our last visit was for the Falklands exhibition which is quite moving! Cafe and toilet facilities on site. Don't forget the gift shop. Although it's free to visit I would definitely recommend dropping in a donation to help keep the place running. Our children loved exploring the dark underground tunnels
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Guy M. 8 months ago on Google • 571 reviews
    Very impressive. It really is a great day out, but the weather wants to be on your side to fully appreciate it. I was with a party who were not really interested in the exhibits but wanted to appreciate the views, which are very impressive. We did take advantage of the introductory talk, I wouldn't call it a tour, which was very interesting and well delivered. I did have a good look around the out door exhibits which I would have liked to see better described, but didn't get much further as my party wanted to move on. One thing really impressed me, it was FREE to get in. Great if you have a family and want to take them out. Something that not everyone can afford with a young family. Well done and I hope to visit again.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alex K. 2 years ago on Google
    We went there the day after a storm, so one could not see everything, which made sense. A very kind member of staff with a thick beard took the £3 for parking. He explained what there was to do. The cafe was also really nice. The woman who assisted us was just lovely and everything was very clean. My favourite part of this place was the tunnels. They went on for quite a bit. "The Art of Artillery" was also pleasing to see.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Graeme B. 6 months ago on Google • 433 reviews
    Amazing experience with this absolute gem, the fort is free to enter and you feel no pressure to donate or buy anything. The history within is both enjoyable and fun for young and old alike with facilities to allow disabled to enjoy the majority of the experience perhaps not the upper ramparts though there is a ramp up. I went on a tour to a tunnel not open to public often and the guides were delightful and informative. There is so much here I can't get it all into the review ! Suffice to say that spending an afternoon here exploring with the family or alone would be both enjoyable and time well spent. The photos don't do justice to the majesty of this amazing building.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Richard W. 2 months ago on Google • 519 reviews New
    Fort Nelson is perhaps overshadowed by the other Naval attractions in Portsmouth but once you’ve ticked them off then make your way up here. Fantastic views over the city greet you at this commanding location but this impressive Fort more than holds its own. Apparently it had been neglected for many years but thankfully it has been partially restored and makes for a very interesting hour - those who like guns and tunnels will be in their element here. Chirpy staff and free entry are the icing on the cake. Recommended.

  • 5/5 Steven M. 1 year ago on Google
    What a fantastic way to spend 3-4 hours free of charge. The Fort its self looking over Portsmouth is huge with plenty to do and see. The railway gun is seriously impressive and the tunnels are fun. Parking is available for a small fee, cafe/ souvenir shop on site.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Toxteth O' G. 1 year ago on Google
    Was on my way back to my accommodation after two days exploring the historic dockyard in Portsmouth but whilst passing Fort Nelson I had an hour before they closed. An hour isn’t enough to do this large complex justice but I had a quick look around. Railway gun is huge. Good exhibition of historic artillery, guns from Waterloo, Soviet Union etc. Good views from the rear ramparts. The tunnels are fun. Interactive activities for kids like dressing up & packing a soldiers kit. This would make a good free day out no question.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 David “Family Guy” R. 1 year ago on Google
    Free entry, all you have to pay for is the parking and if your kids want to go on the assault course. Well worth paying for as the kids have loads of fun, climbing and crawling! A good day out for kids including younger tots as there is plenty of climbing and tunnels for them to explore. Probably not the best for those with limited mobility although they do have wheelchair routes and a lift. The indoor exhibits are well thought out with interesting signage and interactive sounds/displays. They tell the story of the fort and artillery. If you are interested in artillery then the range of exhibits will impress. From some of the world's earliest artillery pieces up to the Iraqi super gun. Our favourite is the railway gun. All in all a good cheap day out for the family, especially when the sun is shining. Plenty of parking is available.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Craig S. 1 year ago on Google
    Had an absolutely awesome day taking the kids there, yes it was a free day out but regardless it was still awesome, we as a whole family loved it, as an adult it was great to learn all the history of the Fort through the years and the kids loved it seeing all the different cannons and leaning about what the Fort was for and what the different soldiers did they especially as they compared it to what their uncle does in the military now compared to then. I would recommend a visit there to anyone and everyone.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Carl H. 1 year ago on Google
    Really good day out for the family, parking available, friendly helpful staff, disabled friendly lovely little cafe there and good shop to buy memorabilia of your visit. Stroll through the tunnels and see weaponry through the ages. Very informative and enjoyable for all. Free entry parking is about £3. Disabled parking free. Definitely worth a visit.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Davina Louise B. 10 months ago on Google
    A brilliant place , which I think 💭 can be overlooked. The art 🖼️ installation of “Walking With Giants” ( reference the fallen [ those who “Crossed The Bar” ] in the Falkland conflict ( 1982 ). Very emotive & very powerful. The Museum is fantastic & is accessible to all with great facilities for those who need help & assistance. An hidden gem 💎 in the Portsmouth area. 10/10. Well worth a visit.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Hannah M. 2 years ago on Google
    You pay £3 to park and that's it! It's a amazing place to visit and we go at least twice a year. The children love it and they often have special events! I would recommend this to anyone, in cooler months wrap up warm as you really feel the chill you are right on top of the hill lol! However in summer it's an amazing cooling relief. Plenty of room for kids to run off energy and explore. Definitely 5*
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rohan D. 8 months ago on Google
    We visited Fort Nelson on a Monday, so unfortunately it was closed. However we had a good walk around the outside. Was really interesting to get a proper look at a more modern fort, with the glacis/ramparts outside giving us some real insight into how they planned on defending the walls themselves against cannon fire. Walls are quite impressive, and the fort enjoys an incredible outlook over Portsmouth. It would have been great to have been there in its early years of operation and seen how it was utilised to ensure dominance over the port areas.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kerry E. 7 months ago on Google • 5 reviews
    Visited today and was great. Very interesting place with lots to see. The lady on reception was very friendly and helpful when we arrived too. Would definitely recommend a visit. Entry is free, small charge for car park and the souvenir guide was very reasonably priced too. We enjoyed our visit thank you
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rich C. 2 years ago on Google
    A cracking day out , free to enter and £3 for the parking. Could have stayed longer but can't take dogs in unfortunately so had to go back to the van . Highly recommended.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Caroline B. 2 years ago on Google
    Awesome place to visit which I’ve come to numerous times now. Lots to see and it’s free too. The tunnels are great. Good place to come for a few hours.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tammyboy c. 2 years ago on Google
    Very big museum and lots to do. Very friendly staff and helpful. Free of charge. My family joy every minute. Big tunnels underground. Lots and lots to do. Lovely clean toilets. Free parking. Armchair friendly.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Burl S. 1 year ago on Google
    Great artillery museum, well presented exhibits, good facilities and parking. Free entry. We were lucky to attend on an open day with lots of WW2 re-enactments including a field gun live firing exercise. The views across Portsmouth Harbour are stunning.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Catherine M. 1 year ago on Google
    Always a great place to visit for all ages. I've been coming here now for close to 25 years and have really enjoyed the changes as they've happened. The cafe and shop are also excellent. If you get chance to come on a special event day then you definitely should.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Matthew B. 2 years ago on Google
    Loved it, met up here today with friends and family for an easy afternoon and really surprised as to how good it was for everyone. Totally enjoyable and lots of new things added since we last visited. The kids loved exploring the tunnels which lead to something to see. Great shop and restaurant. Anyone interested in Military history would find hours of facts to learn. Another huge benefit, we could not believe it was free entry.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lord Mayor of W. 1 year ago on Google
    Exceptional museum on portsdown hill, still can't believe it's free for entry. Lovely cafe at start. Loads of exhibits in the fort itself. Tells the story of how and why they were built. Also has the Falklands 40 year exhibit. There is a large ground to explore outside with a small refreshment bar where you purchase tickets for the junior assault course. All in all a great day out for all the family.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jeffrey R. 2 years ago on Google
    Great day out fantastic place great views of Portsmouth.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chris W. 8 months ago on Google • 135 reviews
    Excellent place to visit with plenty to see and do. What makes it even better is that it free. If you park on the same side then it will cost you £3 but there is free parking on the other side of the road. Just in case it is busy you can guarantee your place in advance online or you can take your chances and just turn up on the day.

  • 5/5 Exeter Advanced D. 3 months ago on Google • 119 reviews New
    The welcome was warm. The customer service in the cafe first class. The enthusiasm of the people working there was infectious. The displays well presented. All this and for free! If you visit in winter be prepared for the cold in the tunnels. I'd happily revisit.

  • 5/5 Liakat K. 5 months ago on Google • 57 reviews
    A great place to visit and learn about the local history of Portsmouth. This place is huge and contains a vast array of military equipment as well as history of the people who lived and worked there. We came on a special events day (check website) which had a variety of activities which included re-enactments and gun firings which we found quite amazing. All in all a great day out for the family.

  • 4/5 Kerry M. 7 months ago on Google • 41 reviews
    Great historic place to visit, heaps of information to absorb and the vast amount of artillery on show is impressive. Café is good with some great cake. A kid's meal is £5.50 which included sandwiches, drink and 2 snacks.

  • 5/5 Adam M. 8 months ago on Google
    Wow what a amazing place full of adventure secret rooms and tunnels and amazing history. Went with my Kids and they loved it also the assault course is a must if you have children.

  • 5/5 Laura K. 1 year ago on Google
    Great day out for all ages. Free day out for the whole family. Definitely recommend visiting Fort Nelson. So much history and lots to see and discover. Have visited many times since childhood and will continue to return.

  • 5/5 Paul R. 2 years ago on Google
    Excellent experience. Only needed to pay for parking so excellent value for money. No fuss entry, helpful and informative staff, great and interesting exhibits. There isn't a massive amount to do, so it's not a full day trip but as with anything, it's what you make of it. Great little half day excursion if you're looking for one.

  • 5/5 Thomas B. 2 years ago on Google
    A free museum (parking £3), offering insight into the fort history and artillery. Looks like there are quite few activities for kids, to keep them entertained. The displays and exhibits were quite detailed and interesting

  • 5/5 Pierre F. 6 months ago on Google
    I went on a Saturday. Amazing experience, entrance to the fort is free but if you go in a vehicle, they charge £3 as a parking fee. Valuable place to Vist as we can gain a good knowledge about the war history. Good for young and old and also it's with facilities to allow disabled to enjoy the most of the areas There is so much here and it's not possible to explain all. I can't get it all into the review. Spending an afternoon here exploring with the family or alone would be both enjoyable and time well spent. The photos don't do justice to the majesty of this amazing location . Good to Vist in weekend's. As there are some entertainment programs. Good clean washrooms at the restaurant location and inside the fort.

  • 5/5 Michaela C. 1 year ago on Google
    Enjoyed a quiet walk around here and look forward to bringing the children. They have a cafe and very friendly staff work here. Very clean and they do have a lift for anyone who needs it to enjoy seeing the Museum. Lots of picnic tables to have lunch on.

  • 5/5 krafty148 8 months ago on Google
    Great place for a visit. Lots to see for the whole family. The outer area is wheel chair accessible, but does have some steep banks, which might not be so accessible in wet weather.

  • 5/5 Douglas M. 11 months ago on Google
    Have been here a few times. Great place for the whole family. Free entry although there is a charge for parking. Near the door. Free parking not far away. An excellent new exhibition for Falklands war 40th ann'y. Good cafe. Tons to see and enjoy but allow at least 2 hours.

  • 5/5 martin g. 2 years ago on Google
    An absolute gem to visit with so much to explore and look at. The Fort itself is great to explore and learn about plus the collection from the Royal armouries is vast and very interesting. Well worth a visit plus ITS FREE!

  • 4/5 Barnaby B. 2 years ago on Google
    Visited the other day with my friends having not been since I was a child I couldn't remember what my expectations should have been. The museum itself is completely free but the parking on site is £3. There is plenty of it with an overflow car park directly behind the primary car park. We didn't have much interaction with staff but the lady at the front desk was very informative and friendly - we needed her help to pay for the parking at the end as it wasn't clear where this happened. She informed us of where the activities were taking place that day if we wished. The venue was clean, tidy and inviting with the front entrance containing the shop and café. The rest of the museum was clean and modern where it needed to be and felt well looked after. I'm not sure if it was because we didn't pick up a map or guide but it did feel a little disjointed when going round - I feel it would be nicer if the layout of the place was in such a way where you go through one place to another as we felt like we wondering around in circles (this was likely due to our path rather than the museum). It could also be down to the shape of the museum as it's obviously within an old fort. I think it could be better if there were clearer arrows of what leads where for those that don't pick up a guide. There isn't a massive amount to see compared to other museums but I would say the facilities and the environment make up for this. I did also feel that the information about the exhibits was a little lackluster but this was down to the people I was with not giving me enough time to take everything in (again more likely a me issue rather than a museum issue) Overall: we had a good experience and enjoyed our time at the museum. It was clean and tidy and the staff that we encountered were knowledgeable and friendly. This is a good cheap day out for kids as well as those that are interested in this period and history in general. I would highly recommend paying this place a visit.

  • 5/5 brian h. 2 years ago on Google
    Great place to visit for a few hours, fantastic history of the forts and stunning views over Portsmouth. Well worth a visit.

  • 4/5 stuart B. 10 months ago on Google
    Went to see standing on the shoulders of giants. Falklands conflict memorial display. Very well done. Entry to the Fort is free main displays are artillery weapons across the ages..

  • 4/5 Zeus F. 1 year ago on Google
    Great place to stop off for an hour or two. Very clean and well maintained. Kids have plenty to run around and burn off steam after long journey. Educational exhibits for children and students me fun challenges. Primarily historical exhibits with very little modern weaponry- perhaps for obvious reasons!

  • 5/5 funkidiva 2 years ago on Google
    Great place to spend a couple of hours with or without children. Lots of canons on display with lots of history about them to learn. It was fun exploring the cold and dark tunnels. Great cafe and gift shop. Amazing that it is free with a reasonable parking charge. Lots to see. Interesting, morbid and sad at the same time. There are lots of galleries and rooms to explore as well as outside areas to explore and for children to run around at. Well worth a visit with helpful and friendly staff. Impressed.

  • 5/5 Sadie P. 9 months ago on Google
    Incredibly moving experience. The Falklands Exhibition was very moving. Fantastic! Credit to everyone who has helped to make it such a wonderful informative museum. It has come a long way since I previously visited.


Call +44 1329 233734 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible toilet
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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