Fort Nelson - Fareham

This imposing Victorian fort is home to the Royal Armouries national collection of artillery – The Big Guns.

Strategically positioned atop Portsdown Hill, with panoramic views across the Meon Valley and Portsmouth Harbour, Fort Nelson is an historic monument, restored to how it would have been in the 1890s. Visitors can access most areas of the fortifications and see how the Fort would have operated.

The museum’s displays trace the development of artillery from pre-gunpowder siege machines to modern-day super guns. There are over 350 big guns on display.

Fort Nelson has just undergone a multi-million pound redevelopment transforming it into a museum for the 21st century. Opening this summer are a new visitor centre, a new café and new galleries, including the magnificent Voice of the Guns gallery.

Opening times

The Fort is closed 24-26 December (inclusive)

Admission

Free: some events may be chargeable.

Last admission is one hour before closing