How to Plan Your Tour to The Mary Rose Museum in Portsmouth

If you’re planning a tour to Portsmouth, a must-visit destination is The Mary Rose Museum. The museum is built around the wreck of King Henry VIII’s flagship that sunk during battle off the coast of Portsmouth in 1545. The ship was raised from the seabed in 1982 and the state-of-the-art museum was built in 2013. In this guide, we’ll take you through all the steps necessary for planning your visit to The Mary Rose Museum in Portsmouth.

Experience

At The Mary Rose Museum in Portsmouth, you’ll be able to:

• Marvel at a carefully conserved 473-year old shipwreck
• Touch genuine Tudor artifacts and interactive displays
• Learn about history from knowledgeable museum guides
• View the ship brought to life through cutting edge technology
• Experience ‘1545 When their world ended’, a brand new immersive experience

Highlights

The highlights of The Mary Rose Museum include:

• Viewing the only 16th century warship on display anywhere in the world
• Seeing the largest and most unique Tudor collection of objects
• Walking through a range of interactive displays and learning about life on board for the crew and officers in Tudor times
• Experiencing a brand new immersive experience, ‘1545 When their world ended’

Planning Your Visit

To plan your visit to The Mary Rose Museum in Portsmouth, follow these steps:

Step 1: Book Your Ticket

The first step is to book your ticket. You can do this by visiting the following website: Book your tour here It’s recommended that you book your ticket in advance to avoid disappointment. The museum is a popular tourist destination, and tickets can sell out quickly.

Step 2: Decide on Your Visit Time

Once you’ve booked your ticket, you’ll need to decide on your visit time. The museum is open every day from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, with last entry at 4:15 pm. The last admission time may vary, based on the event schedule.

Step 3: Plan Your Journey

The Mary Rose Museum is located within the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. The nearest train station is Portsmouth Harbour, and there are regular trains from London and other major cities. If you’re driving, the museum is easily accessible from the M27 motorway. There is ample parking available at the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.

Step 4: Arrive Early

It’s recommended that you arrive at the museum at least 30 minutes before your visit time. This will give you plenty of time to check in and explore the museum.

Step 5: Enjoy Your Visit

Once you’ve arrived, you’ll be free to explore the museum at your leisure. There are guided tours available throughout the day, or you can explore the museum on your own.

Book Your Tour Now

The Mary Rose Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Tudor history. By following these steps, you’ll be able to plan your visit with ease and make the most of your time at the museum. Book your tour today and discover the rich history of The Mary Rose in Portsmouth.

FAQ About The Mary Rose

1. What is the Mary Rose?

The Mary Rose is a Tudor-era warship that was built in Portsmouth, England in the early 16th century. The ship was in service for more than three decades and saw active duty in several conflicts, including against the French invasion fleet of 1545.

2. When did the Mary Rose sink?

The Mary Rose sank on July 19, 1545, during the Battle of the Solent, near the Isle of Wight, England. The causes of the sinking are still not entirely clear, but it is believed that the ship was unstable due to its design and had some structural issues.

3. When was the Mary Rose discovered?

The Mary Rose was rediscovered in 1971 by a team of divers led by maritime archaeologist Alexander McKee. The remains of the ship were raised from the seabed in 1982 in a complex and challenging operation that involved the use of cranes and other heavy machinery.

4. Where can I see the Mary Rose?

The Mary Rose Museum is located in Portsmouth, England, and is dedicated to the ship and its history. The museum displays a large collection of artifacts that were recovered from the shipwreck, including weapons, clothing, and personal items belonging to the crew members. Visitors can also see the remains of the ship and learn about its history through interactive exhibits and displays.

5. What kind of ship was the Mary Rose?

The Mary Rose was an innovative warship that was designed to carry heavy artillery and to operate in shallow waters close to the coast. The ship had a distinctive, high-sided hull and was equipped with multiple gun ports that allowed it to fire its weapons in all directions. The ship was also heavily armed, with a complement of more than 90 guns, including long-range cannon and smaller pieces of artillery.

6. How many crew members were on the Mary Rose?

It is estimated that there were around 400 crew members on board the Mary Rose when it sank. Most of the crew were sailors, but there were also soldiers and archers on board who were armed with longbows and other weapons.

7. What happened to the crew of the Mary Rose?

Many of the crew of the Mary Rose perished when the ship sank, and their remains were found on board the ship when it was raised from the seabed. However, some crew members survived the sinking and were rescued by other ships in the area. It is believed that around 35 crew members survived the disaster.

8. What happened to the Mary Rose after it sank?

After the Mary Rose sank, it gradually sank into the seabed and was covered by silt and mud. Over the centuries, the ship’s remains were gradually buried, and it was not until the 20th century that the wreck was rediscovered. Today, the remains of the ship are preserved and displayed at the Mary Rose Museum in Portsmouth.

9. What can I see at the Mary Rose Museum?

The Mary Rose Museum is home to an extensive collection of artifacts recovered from the wreck of the ship, including weapons, tools, personal items, and more. Visitors can also see the remains of the ship itself, which are displayed in a specially designed exhibition hall that allows visitors to see the ship from all angles.

10. Can I visit the Mary Rose Museum?

Yes, the Mary Rose Museum is open to visitors throughout the year, although opening hours may vary depending on the season. The museum offers a range of guided tours and interactive exhibits, and admission is free for children under the age of 16.

11. How do I get to the Mary Rose Museum?

The Mary Rose Museum is located in Portsmouth, England, and is easily accessible by car, train, or ferry. Parking is available nearby, and the museum is just a short walk from the nearest train station.

12. What are the opening hours of the Mary Rose Museum?

The Mary Rose Museum is open from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm every day, except for Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Last admission to the museum is at 4:30 pm.

13. How much does it cost to visit the Mary Rose Museum?

Admission to the Mary Rose Museum is free for children under the age of 16, but there is a charge for adults. Prices vary depending on the time of year, so it’s best to check the museum’s website for up-to-date information.

14. What other attractions are there in the area?

Portsmouth is a popular tourist destination with many other attractions, including the Historic Dockyard, the Spinnaker Tower, and the Portsmouth City Museum. Visitors can also explore the city’s many restaurants, cafes, and shops.

15. Is the Mary Rose important for historians?

Yes, the Mary Rose is of great historical importance as it provides a fascinating insight into Tudor naval warfare and life on board a warship of the period. The ship and its artifacts have helped historians to better understand the technology, tactics, and culture of the time.

16. What impact did the Mary Rose have on naval warfare?

The Mary Rose was a revolutionary warship that helped to transform naval warfare in the 16th century. The ship was heavily armed and could deliver devastating firepower to enemy vessels at close range. It also had a high-sided hull that could withstand heavy seas and was more stable than earlier warships. The Mary Rose set the standard for naval technology and design for many years to come.

17. Who was the Mary Rose named after?

The Mary Rose was named after Mary Tudor, the younger sister of King Henry VIII. Mary Tudor was a popular figure at the time, and the ship was intended to be a symbol of her power and influence.

18. Is the Mary Rose still being studied?

Yes, the Mary Rose is still being studied by archaeologists, historians, and other experts. The ship and its artifacts offer a wealth of information about Tudor-era naval warfare and life on board a warship of the time. Ongoing research and analysis of the ship and its remains continues to shed new light on this important period of history.

19. Can I donate to the Mary Rose Museum?

Yes, the Mary Rose Museum accepts donations to help support its ongoing work. Donations can be made online or in person at the museum. The museum also offers a range of membership options for those who want to support its work and receive special benefits and discounts.

20. Can I volunteer at the Mary Rose Museum?

Yes, the Mary Rose Museum offers a range of volunteer opportunities for those who want to get involved and support its work. Volunteers can help with a variety of tasks, including guiding tours, helping with events and exhibitions, and working with the conservation team to preserve and protect the ship’s artifacts.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in The Mary Rose

Are you planning to visit The Mary Rose as a tourist? The Mary Rose is a Tudor warship that sank in the Solent in 1545 and was recovered in 1982. It is now a museum located in Portsmouth, England. The Mary Rose has a lot of history to offer visitors, and this guide will outline the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in The Mary Rose.

1. Start at the Beginning

When you first arrive at The Mary Rose, it’s important to start at the beginning. The museum has recently undergone a multi-million-pound refurbishment project, and there’s now a new entrance and a new introductory film. This film is a great way to understand the history of The Mary Rose from its origins to its final moments.

2. Visit the Exhibition and Galleries

The Mary Rose has several exhibitions and galleries that you can explore. These include a timeline of Tudor England, galleries dedicated to the sailors who were on board The Mary Rose, and an interactive exhibit where you can try on Tudor clothing. There is even a gallery dedicated to the dogs who were on board the ship!

3. Take a Virtual Tour

If you can’t visit The Mary Rose in person, you can still explore the museum through a virtual tour. The virtual tour allows you to explore the museum from the comfort of your own home. You can see the ship from all angles, and you can even look inside some of the artefacts. The virtual tour is a great way to get a sense of what The Mary Rose has to offer if you’re unable to visit in person.

4. Watch the Dive Shows

The Mary Rose is also home to a theatre where you can watch live dive shows. The dive shows give visitors a chance to see the latest discoveries that have been made about The Mary Rose. You can see the latest objects that have been recovered from the ship, and you can learn about the latest theories on why the ship sank. The dive shows are a great way to learn about the history of The Mary Rose from experts in the field.

5. Learn About the Crew

One of the things that makes The Mary Rose so unique is that some of the crew members were recovered with the ship. As a visitor, you can learn about the crew and their lives on the ship. You can see the personal belongings that were recovered with the crew members, and you can learn about their roles on the ship. Learning about the crew members is a great way to get a sense of what life was like on board The Mary Rose.

6. Visit the Conservation Centre

The Mary Rose is still being conserved, and visitors can see this conservation in action at the on-site conservation centre. The conservation centre is where the artefacts are being carefully cleaned and preserved. Visitors can see the objects being worked on, and they can learn about the process of conserving them. The conservation centre is a great way to see behind the scenes at The Mary Rose.

7. Check out the Gift Shop

No trip to The Mary Rose would be complete without a trip to the gift shop. The gift shop has a range of Tudor-themed gifts, including books, souvenirs, and replicas of artefacts. There’s something for everyone in the gift shop, and it’s a great way to take home a piece of The Mary Rose.

Book Your Tour Now

The Mary Rose is a unique and fascinating museum that has a lot to offer visitors. From the introductory film to the dive shows, there’s something for everyone at The Mary Rose. By following these tips, you’ll be sure to make the most of your time as a tourist in The Mary Rose.