Southsea Lifestyle – Free Magazine for Southsea, Old Portsmouth, Eastney & Gunwharf Quays

Experience Christmas at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is a top UK destination with famous naval attractions, and this December, they are hosting a festive program that you won’t want to miss.

Throughout the month, you can enjoy Christmas events that celebrate both traditional and unique customs, taking you from Henry VIII’s time to the present. Visitors can expect an exciting experience.

Local visitors can also take advantage of a 30% discount on an Annual Explorer pass and enjoy a chance to see Santa, with a free gift for good children.

Here are some highlights for your visit:

Time Walk Through Christmas Past 1 Dec 24 – 5 Jan 25

Travel through Christmas history across three historic ships. Discover stories of life at sea, see decorations, and take part in activities.

Your journey starts on the warship HMS Warrior, decorated with festive garlands and lanterns. Join Victorian sailors in song and learn about their holiday traditions.

Next, visit HMS M33, a First World War ship. Experience how soldiers celebrated Christmas during the war, from letters home to simple festivities that boosted their spirits.

Finally, step onto HMS Alliance for a nostalgic 1950s Christmas. The submarine features retro décor, reminding you of how post-war Britain celebrated the season.

Visit Henry VIII’s Christmas Court  7-8 Dec 24 

At the Mary Rose Museum, experience a Tudor Christmas with live performances. Young Henry VIII celebrates the holidays with banquets, games, and entertainment, but sibling rivalries add tension to the festive spirit.

Will Anne Boleyn capture the King’s attention, or will fair Mary, rumored to be his mistress, win out? Enjoy humour, drama, and some Christmas magic during the performances.

Deck the Hulls: A Victorian Yuletide 11am-4pm, 7-8 Dec 24 

Join HMS Warrior for a festive Victorian experience filled with carol singing, craft-making, and a visit from Father Christmas. The crew will welcome you as they prepare for a holiday celebration.

You’ll learn about the lives of the crew and have the chance to taste traditional sugar mice. And don’t miss the Captain’s Cabin, where Father Christmas has a special gift for each child.

Adults can enjoy a taste of fine rum while children try dandelion and burdock.

A Tudor Christmas: Meet the Curator Talk and Tour  12:30-4pm, 21 Dec 24

Join curator Hannah Matthews to explore how the men of the Mary Rose celebrated Christmas in Tudor times. Learn about Christmas trees, the Lord of Misrule, wassailing, and the feast of roast boar’s head.

This talk includes a glass of mulled wine and a behind-the-scenes tour of the museum.


Posted in: Articles, Education, Events, History & Architecture, Local & Community, What's On