No visit to the South Seas would be complete without visiting the Portsmouth City Museum. This vast museum is located in the former Victorian Barracks right off the coast near Square Tower. The interactive museum takes visitors through the history of Portsmouth life going back to the 17th century. In addition to the permanent exhibitions at the Portsmouth City Museum, visitors can expect a new experience each time they visit thanks to the rotating exhibits.
The main attraction of the Portsmouth City Museum is the “Story of Portsmouth.” This permanent exhibition takes visitors through daily life in the city going back to the 1600s and up into modern times. You will be able to see firsthand what a bedchamber in the 17th century looked like, see how a worker in the 19th century cooked meals, how Victorians accepted their guests, the kitchen appliances of the 1930s in Portsmouth, and also a 1950s living room. The Story of Portsmouth continues to show you how the city residents enjoyed their leisure time, especially of their love of football.
Lovers of fine art will enjoy the permanent collection of Fine and Decorative Art at the Portsmouth City Museum. The collection has pieces from local artists going back to the 1600s up to today. Here, you will also find a Temporary Exhibition Gallery which is frequently changing to show new important works from local artists.
One of the most popular exhibitions of the Portsmouth City Museum is “A Study in Sherlock: Uncovering The Arthur Conan Doyle Collection.” This permanent exhibit delves into the life of the author behind the legendary detective who was from the South Seas. The exhibit is complete with audio visual displays which will be of interest to all age groups.
The Portsmouth City Museum is free to all visitors. There is a café and gift shop on the grounds.
