About Royal Navy Submarine Museum
The Royal Navy Submarine Museum is a maritime museum in Gosport, Hampshire, England that tells the story of the Royal Navy’s submarine service from its origins to the present day. The museum features exhibits on the history of submarines, including the first British submarines and the famous World War II submarines, as well as interactive displays and hands-on activities for visitors of all ages. Some of the museum’s main attractions include the chance to tour a real Cold War-era submarine, the HMS Alliance, and the chance to see the world’s first true submarine, the Holland 1. The museum also has a collection of submarine-related artefacts, including weapons and equipment, as well as a library of books and documents on the history of submarines.
Notable exhibits
- The Holland 1: This is the world's first true submarine, built in 1901 by the American inventor John Holland. Visitors can see the inside of the submarine and learn about its design and capabilities.
- The HMS Alliance: This is a World War II-era submarine that visitors can tour. The submarine has been restored to its original condition and visitors can see the living quarters, control room, and other areas of the submarine.
- The Submarine Story: This is an interactive exhibit that tells the story of the Royal Navy's submarine service from its origins to the present day. It features a range of exhibits including models, artefacts, and interactive displays.
- The Cold War exhibit: This exhibit features artefacts and information about the Cold War period, including the role submarines played during this time.
- The Submarine Escape Training Tank: This is a vertical tank that is used to train submariners how to escape from a sunken submarine. Visitors can see the tank and learn about the escape procedures.
- The Submarine Artefacts: The museum's collection of submarine-related artefacts includes weapons, equipment, and other items that were used on submarines throughout history.
- The library of books and documents: The museum also has a library of books and documents on the history of submarines, which visitors can consult.
Food & drink
The Royal Navy Submarine Museum has a café on site, which serves a range of hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, light meals and snacks. The café is open during the museum's regular opening hours and is a good spot to take a break and enjoy a bite to eat after exploring the exhibits. The café is also available for private hires. The museum does not have any restaurant, but there are plenty of options for food and drink in the nearby area of Gosport, where you can find a variety of restaurants and cafes.
Length of visit
The length of visit to the Royal Navy Submarine Museum will depend on personal interests and the amount of time that you have available. However, most visitors spend around 2 to 3 hours exploring the museum's exhibits and facilities. The museum's main attraction, the Holland 1 submarine and the HMS Alliance, can be toured in around 30-40 minutes, but there are other interactive exhibits and displays that are also worth exploring. The library of books and documents, the Submarine Escape Training Tank and the Submarine Story are also interesting, and can take some extra time to explore. Additionally, if you're particularly interested in the history of submarines or naval history, you may want to spend more time at the museum.
Hints & tips
- Plan your visit: Before you go, check the museum's website for information on opening hours, ticket prices, and any special events that may be taking place.
- Wear comfortable shoes: The museum has a lot to explore, and comfortable shoes will make it easier for you to walk around and see everything.
- Consider taking a guided tour: Guided tours of the museum and the submarines are available and can provide a more in-depth and informative experience.
- Take a jacket or sweater: The temperature inside the submarine can be cooler than outside, so it's best to be prepared.
- Take advantage of the interactive exhibits: The museum has many interactive exhibits, which can be a great way to learn about the history and technology of submarines.
- Take advantage of the café: The museum's café is a great spot to take a break and grab a bite to eat after exploring the exhibits.
- Have a good time: The Royal Navy Submarine Museum is an interesting and unique place to visit, and it's a great opportunity to learn about the history and technology of submarines in an interactive and fun way.
Travel Directions
Here are some travel directions for getting to the Royal Navy Submarine Museum in Gosport, Hampshire, England:
- By car: The museum is located on Haslar Jetty in Gosport and can be easily reached by car. From the M27, take the A32 to Gosport and follow the signs for the museum. There is a car park on-site.
- By public transportation: The nearest train station is Portsmouth Harbour, which is about 2 miles from the museum. From there, you can catch a bus to the museum. The nearest bus stop is located on Haslar Road, which is a short walk from the museum.
- By ferry: The museum is also accessible by ferry from Portsmouth Harbour, which can be a pleasant option for visitors.
- By bicycle: There are cycle ways and the museum have bike racks to park your bike.
It is always best to check the website of the museum or local transportation providers for the most up-to-date travel information and plan accordingly, especially if you are planning to use public transportation.
