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 weddings, Christmas parties, private dinners, and business meetings and events for up to 150 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. You can even host a lunch on the Balcony for up to 18 people.

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. The Admiral’s Gallery takes some beating for drinks and canapes for up to 130 guests, theatre style events for 120, or banquets for 100; 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 20-50 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.