Today's Opening Times & Tickets
saturday: 10:00 am - 5:30 pm
Main Rd, Portsea, Portsmouth PO1 3QX
Boathouse 4
A Historic Maritime Gem
Built in 1938, Boathouse 4 is not just a building; it’s a living testament to the rich history of maritime craftsmanship. This iconic structure has withstood the test of time and now houses a remarkable collection of small military craft.
Step inside and embark on an unforgettable journey through the evolution of boatbuilding history.
Today's Opening Times & Tickets
saturday: 10:00 am - 5:30 pm
Main Rd, Portsea, Portsmouth PO1 3QX
The History of Boathouse 4
The construction of Boathouse 4 was interrupted by the outbreak of the Second World War, leading to the addition of a temporary corrugated iron wall, a feature that stands as a historical marker today. Its distinctive 1930s architecture and ‘sawtooth’ roof make it instantly recognisable within the Portsmouth Harbour landscape.
During the war, Boathouse 4 was crucial to the construction and maintenance of the Royal Navy’s smaller vessels, outfitted with cutting-edge lifting equipment, including four gantry cranes that are still in use today.
Visitors can explore this fully operational Boathouse, home to the world’s premier collection of 20th-century military powerboats, dedicated to their restoration and preservation. With iconic vessels like Motor Gun Boat 81, Landing Craft Foxtrot 8, and RAF High-Speed Launch 102, you may even have the chance to take these historical crafts out on the Solent for an unforgettable experience.
More information can be found here: Charters & Hire | PHQ (portsmouthhq.org)
Special Exhibition: SHE_SEES
Running from August 2024 to August 2025, Boathouse 4 will proudly host SHE_SEES, an innovative exhibition celebrating the inspiring stories of women in maritime. Led by the UK-based Lloyd’s Register Foundation, this exhibition shines a spotlight on the trailblazing women whose voices have shaped the maritime industry, unveiling archives from across the UK and Ireland.
In partnership with Portsmouth Historic Quarter and the University of Portsmouth, SHE_SEES aims to make waves in the push for greater diversity within maritime industries.
The exhibition is open daily from 10.00am to 4.30pm.
Restaurant at Boathouse 4
After exploring, relax and indulge at the Boathouse 4 Restaurant. With stunning views of Portsmouth Harbour, this family-friendly restaurant offers a contemporary menu made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Monday-Saturday ‘All Day Brunch and Lunch Menu’
- Sunday: Brunch is served from 10am –11.45am
- Sunday: Lunch menu is served from 12-3pm
- Coffee and Cake are served all day, every day between 10am and 4pm
Don’t miss out on our exclusive ‘pop-up’ evenings, where chef partners from Baxter Storey bring you exquisite Supper Clubs. Each event features a unique taster menu paired with fine wines for an elevated dining experience.