Trifter

MOST people return from the Royal Naval Museum in Portsmouth with a better understanding of and a greater respect (almost awe) for the Senior Service.  The Royal Navy has been the Bulwark of England since the reign of Alfred the Great.

There are five galleries in the museum.  The Victory Gallery traces the rise of the Royal Navy with relics and models of Alfred’s fleet, the Armada Warships of Elizabeth I and the Wooden Walls which defended the country and our seaways during the long wars with France.

It tells the story of the legendary HMS Victory, flagship of many admirals, including Nelson: her construction, service, battles and the officers, men and boys who served aboard her.

There is a panorama with sound effects that relates the story of Nelson’s decisive victory off Cape Trafalgar.

It also contains the State Barge that was used during Nelson’s funeral as well as other dioramas, flags and plenty of beautifully carved and painted figureheads.

The Lambert McCarthy Gallery features both the public and private lives of Admiral Lord Nelson and has many of his personal possessions alongside commemorative ceramics, silverware and portraits.

Fighting sails is represented in the Douglas-Morris gallery, which reflects the Great World War of 1793 to 1815 that was waged with France.  There are dioramas of the famous sea battles, special medal displays and the Hall of Honour.

The Wyllie Gallery covers the century of steam driving ships from 1806 to 1905, including the Victorian Heyday of the Royal Navy.  It uses new technology, including a film on the story of steam.  All the Handicrafts of the seaman are featured in this gallery and it shows the public face of the fleet in the 20th Century.  A major feature is the exhibition on Images of the Sailor, which takes a jaunty look at our seamen in postcards, film pottery and fashions.

Personal experiences of the 20th Century Royal Navy are recorded in the Lewin Gallery.  It covers the history of the WRENS, including their invaluable contribution to the Normandy Landings.  There is a special exhibition centre and it includes a portrayal of the Royal Navy of today.

Visitors are able to use the restaurant and gift shop and the Royal Naval Museum has disabled facilities.

The Royal Naval Museum is open from 10am to 4.30pm each day with the exceptions of Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

More up to date information can be obtained from 0839 407080.