DISCOVER
Boathouse 4
OPENING TIMES AND TICKETS
Open Today: 10am – 4:30pm
A Historic Maritime Gem
Built in 1938, Boathouse 4 is more than just a building; it’s a living testament to maritime history. This iconic structure has stood the test of time, preserving a remarkable collection of small military craft. Step inside and embark on a journey through years of boatbuilding history.
THE HISTORY OF BOATHOUSE 4
The outbreak of the Second World War interrupted the construction of Boathouse 4, necessitating the erection of a temporary corrugated iron wall, which remains a visible marker of its storied past. Its 1930s architectural design and ‘sawtooth’ roof makes it instantly recognisable within the landscape of Portsmouth Harbour.
During the war, Boathouse 4 played a critical role in the construction and maintenance of the Royal Navy’s smaller vessels. It was outfitted with state-of-the-art lifting equipment, including four gantry cranes that continue to operate today.
Visitors can explore this fully functioning Boathouse which is home to the world’s leading collection of military powerboats of the 20th century and dedicated to their restoration and maintenance. Motor Gun Boat 81, Landing Craft Foxtrot 8 and RAF High Speed Launch 102 remain in operational use and are available to get out on the water and explore the Solent.
More information can be found here Charters & Hire | PHQ (portsmouthhq.org)
SPECIAL EXHIBITION: SHE_SEES
Running from August 2024 – August 2025 Boathouse 4 will host SHE_SEES. A groundbreaking exhibition spotlighting the inspirational stories of women in maritime, spearheaded by UK-based global safety and education charity Lloyd’s Register Foundation.
The exhibition, hosted in partnership with Portsmouth Historic Quarter and the University of Portsmouth, taps into archive materials from across the UK and Ireland to uncover the extensive history of trailblazing female voices in the maritime industry and aims to change the tide on diversity.
SHE_SEES exhibition is open in Boathouse 4 for visitors between 10am and 4:30pm.
RESTAURANT AT BOATHOUSE 4
Boathouse 4 is also home to a restaurant and bar with stunning views across Portsmouth Harbour. Boathouse 4 restaurant utilises fresh and local ingredients, offering a contemporary menu perfect for the whole family to enjoy from 10:00 – 16:00
- Monday-Saturday ‘All Day Brunch and Lunch Menu’
- Sunday: Brunch is served from 10:00 -11:45
- Sunday: Lunch menu is served from 12:00-15:00
- Coffee and Cake served all day every day between 10:00 and 16:00
Keep an eye out for ‘pop up’ evenings with chef partners of Baxter Storey. Each Supper Club menu explores a different theme encapsulating elevated fine dining in the style of a taster menu paired with fine wines.
HMS WARRIOR
2 MIN WALK AWAY
ACTION STATIONS
5 MIN WALK AWAY
BOOK TICKETS TODAY
Unlimited access for 12 months to 9 attractions, take a look at all what’s included