Fort Nelson Portsmouth

Life-sized soldier silhouettes positioned on a stony ground, heads bowed, evoking remembrance against a bright sky backdrop

With over 19 acres of tunnels, ramparts and artillery to explore, Fort Nelson is a space where imaginations can run wild.

Overlooking Portsmouth Harbour, this restored Victorian fortress is packed with artillery from across the world. Highlights include a 15th-century Turkish bombard cannon, a gigantic 200-tonne railway howitzer, and the infamous ‘Big Babylon’ Iraqi supergun.

There’s plenty for all ages to enjoy, including free family activities, an onsite café and regularly changing exhibitions.

Book Tickets

Free Entry

Opening Times

Term-time: 4 November to 19 December
Open Tuesday to Sunday
10am to 4pm

School Holiday: 20 December 2025 to 4 January 2026
Open daily
10am to 4pm
Closed 24, 25 and 26 December

Getting Here

Portsdown Hill Road,
Portsmouth
PO17 6AN
United Kingdom

Standing with Giants: For Your Tomorrow - Fully booked

Standing with Giants: For Your Tomorrow in Normandy. Photo: ©Matt Scott-Joynt Photography

From 22nd October to 25 January Fort Nelson is hosting 'For Your Tomorrow - The People's Tribute' an installation of 1,475 life-sized silhouettes, created by charity Standing with Giants in tribute to the servicemen under British Command and 50 French Resistance Fighters who lost their lives on D-Day.

Tickets for Standing With Giants - Fully booked

CHECK AVAILABILITY

Fort Nelson is free to enter.

Whilst Standing with Giants is at Fort Nelson, we are unfortunately unable to admit extra visitors to the museum or café, who do not have a pre-booked ticket to site.

Young people aged 15 and under must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.

More information on visitor behaviour and guidance.

Royal Armouries Members can park for free at the onsite car park, non-Members can pay for parking on arrival.