Days Out | Portsmouth | Opens Saturday 24 October 2026
After nearly a decade without a dedicated museum, the Royal Marines have a new national home. Royal Navy Museums: Royal Marines Experience opens on Saturday 24 October 2026 in Boathouse Six at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, just in time for October half term. The former Royal Marines Museum closed in 2017, so this £15 million attraction has been a long time coming.
Here are five reasons to plan a visit.
1. More than 360 years of history, brought to life
The Experience takes you on an immersive, multimedia journey through the story of the Royal Marines from 1664 to today. Powerful storytelling and hundreds of historic and modern objects reveal the people behind more than three and a half centuries of service.
2. All 10 Royal Marines Victoria Crosses together
For the first time, all 10 Victoria Crosses awarded to the Royal Marines, from the Crimean War to the Second World War, are displayed together. Each one tells a story of exceptional bravery, making this a particularly moving part of any visit.
3. Step into a Marine’s boots with VR and AR
Using the latest virtual and augmented reality, visitors can experience what it is like to be a Royal Marine. Interactive galleries explore the Corps’ ethos, operations and the different terrains Marines work in, from mountains to the sea.
4. Take on the Commando challenges
Think you’ve got what it takes? Physical and mental challenges invite visitors of all ages to try some of the tasks new recruits face in training. Families can also book a separate session in the Royal Marines commando-themed Laser Quest arena, open at weekends and during Hampshire school holidays.
5. A whole year of days out
Entry is included in the annual Portsmouth Historic Dockyard ticket, which gives you unlimited visits for a year to the site’s attractions, including HMS Victory and The Mary Rose. It makes a brilliant family day out that you can repeat again and again.
Plan your visit
Royal Navy Museums: Royal Marines Experience
Boathouse 6, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, Victory Gate, HM Naval Base, Portsea, Portsmouth PO1 3LJ
Opens Saturday 24 October 2026
Daily 10am–5.30pm (April to October), 10am–5pm (November to March)
Annual Portsmouth Historic Dockyard ticket: adults £51, children £26
Laser Quest booked separately; open weekends and Hampshire school holidays
You might also like: 5 Reasons to Visit Becoming America, the Science Museum’s New Free Exhibition and Seeing the Bayeux Tapestry at the British Museum: 5 Things to Know Before You Go.