The Mary Rose
There’s something about holding an event in a unique historic venue; it brings a very distinct atmosphere and makes an undeniably special backdrop, and of course, it’s an ice-breaker, giving your guests plenty to talk about. The Mary Rose is no exception; Henry VIII’s warship has a new lease of life not only as a Tudor maritime museum but also as an exclusive venue for Christmas parties, private dinners, and business meetings and events for up to 180 guests.
The number of events held on the Mary Rose are limited, adding to that exclusivity; it’s done to protect the hull from too much wear and tear, but it makes you realise – five centuries of history, wow, this is very special! What makes it even more so is the location; the ship sits right on the water’s edge in Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, and all guests have access to the Bridge Balcony to admire the views across the harbour.
The Mary Rose really comes into its own for evening events when soft lighting adds to the ambience and makes a wonderful setting for meetings, conferences, awards ceremonies, presentations, seminars, drinks receptions and private dinners. All around you are fascinating collections from Tudor life on board this vessel, including pewter plates and musical instruments.
You can also host a dinner for 20-40 guests on the upper deck in the ship hall overlooking the Mary Rose, or in the Wardroom which seats 18. Treat 10-45 guests to an evening tour, with champagne and canapes, or hold your Christmas party here; just picture it - decorations and twinkling lights, such an amazing atmosphere! The events team will help with the organisation of your event and will be there until the last guest has gone home, they’re that dedicated, and it’s worth knowing that the venue can recommend approved caterers, so you know the food is going to be excellent.
Hard to imagine, isn’t it? Dining or sipping champagne within feet of a 16th century warship? Especially one as famous as the Mary Rose, but it’s possible, and you have the opportunity, so go on, make it happen.
| Venue | The Mary Rose |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 180 guests |
| Address | Main Road H M Naval Base Portsmouth Hampshire PO1 3PY |
Function Rooms & Event Spaces (3)
Mary Rose- Drinks Reception and Canapes
- Max Capacity: 180
- Full Details
Have complete access to the museum after hours to yourself. Stroll round the atmospheric galleries after dark whilst enjoying a glass of wine, fizz or a soft drink.
The expert museum guides are always on hand to answer any questions you may have about the collection or the ship.
It promises to be the most memorable drink you’ll ever have! - Request Availability
Mary Rose - Upper Deck
- Max Capacity: 40
- Full Details
Dine alongside the Mary Rose herself, with uninterrupted views of the ship from the intimate and atmospheric upper deck. Enjoy complete access to the museum after hours with a welcome drink whilst discovering the unique collection. Expert museum guides are always on hand to answer any questions you may have about the collection or ship. It's a truly unique dinner you and your guests will never forget.
Capacity
- Banqueting: 40
- Request Availability
Mary Rose - Wardroom Suite - Meeting
- Max Capacity: 18
- Full Details
The executive wardroom offers views across the dockyard and looking over to HMS Victory. It is the perfect space for meetings with a large table and items available on request.
Alternatively, it makes a great space to have a buffet style lunch, or tea, coffee, and pastries. Friends and colleagues welcome!Capacity
- Boardroom: 18
- Request Availability
Venue Features (7)
- AV Equipment
- Disability Access
- Family Friendly
- In-house Catering
- Local Public Transport
- Outside Space
- Wi-Fi Access
