As the yuletide season approaches, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is gearing up for a truly festive experience. With a collection of special events and seasonal sights, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to step back in time to celebrate the season or enjoy a spirited carol concert, here’s a list of the must-do Christmas activities to take on at the Dockyard this year.
No Post Found.

1. Time Walk Through Christmas Past
📅 Dates: 1 December – 5 January
Experience the magic of Christmas from a different time. The Time Walk Through Christmas Past event allows you to wander through different eras, each celebrating the holiday season in its own unique way. From the traditions of the Victorian era to the retro feel of the 1950’s, you’ll witness how Christmas has evolved onboard our ships and submarines, giving you a rich, immersive experience that brings history to life with festive spirit.
2. Victory Gallery Carol Concert
📅 Date: 6 December
Join us for a heartwarming carol concert in the Victory Gallery. This event is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the season’s best music in a unique and atmospheric setting. The concert will feature traditional carols and Christmas songs, creating a truly enchanting experience surrounded by maritime history. Gather with friends and family to sing along and feel the warmth of the holiday spirit in this unforgettable concert.


2. Victory Gallery Carol Concert
📅 Date: 6 December
Join us for a heartwarming carol concert in the Victory Gallery. This event is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the season’s best music in a unique and atmospheric setting. The concert will feature traditional carols and Christmas songs, creating a truly enchanting experience surrounded by maritime history. Gather with friends and family to sing along and feel the warmth of the holiday spirit in this unforgettable concert.

3. Victorian Yuletide Adventure
📅 Dates: 7 – 8 December & 14 – 15 December
Step aboard HMS Warrior for a heartwarming Victorian Christmas experience, including a meeting with Father Christmas in the Captain’s Cabin, where he will share a festive Victorian gift with each child and hear what they are hoping for this Christmas. Join the crew as they prepare for a festive celebration in true Victorian style, transforming the ship into a winter wonderland.
4. Henry VIII’s Christmas Court
📅 Dates: 7 – 8 December & 14 – 15 December
Join the festivities at Henry VIII’s Christmas Court and experience Christmas like royalty. Henry VIII himself will preside over the celebrations, bringing Tudor history to life with merriment, music, and historical characters. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and take part in traditions fit for a king. This interactive event offers a rare chance to experience the holiday season in a setting inspired by the opulence of the Tudor court.


4. Henry VIII’s Christmas Court
📅 Dates: December 16 – December 17
Join the festivities at Henry VIII’s Christmas Court and experience Christmas like royalty. Henry VIII himself will preside over the celebrations, bringing Tudor history to life with merriment, music, and historical characters. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and take part in traditions fit for a king. This interactive event offers a rare chance to experience the holiday season in a setting inspired by the opulence of the Tudor court.
With such a variety of festive events, the Dockyard is the perfect place to take on yuletide, relive holiday traditions from centuries past and create new memories with loved ones. Make sure to add these festive experiences to your yuletide plans and celebrate a Christmas that’s both historical and magical.
Ultimate Explorer Tickets
Love Christmas and History? Take on a year of adventure with an Ultimate Explorer ticket. Our best value tickets have the flexibility of unlimited visits for an entire year, perfect for coming back to see all the museums, attractions, and more. With 9 attractions, plus our handy waterbus to get you to our Gosport locations, a single ticket gives a lifetime of memories.