“Ladder access to most of the historic ships make this a very tricky museum for babies, sadly. Add to this the uneven surfaces, lower ceilings and sharp objects on open display and this museum is edging towards being quite dangerous for the under 3s. Armoured battle ships were never going to be easy to visit with a baby, but the team have clearly done their best and this review details our experience and recommendations.”
Changing facilities **
Access *
Baby feeding facilities (including seating) *
Travel ***
Enjoyability **
Total Babies in Museums Rating **
A great positive which moves this otherwise incompatible museum up to two stars is the small but thoughtful details including this Play Deck room with toys and soft-play style blocks to be found in the Victory Gallery. The Victory Gallery also has by far the nicest and cleanest baby changing facilities. You will find a small covered buggy park next to HMS Warrior, but this is pretty far from most of the other attractions unfortunately. The Mary Rose Museum is probably the most gently stimulating and peaceful part of the complex and has the best level access. The best place for baby feeding might be the National Museum of the Royal Navy which has some seating, although seating in general is pretty scarce throughout. The Mary Rose Cafe has highchairs.
If you work for Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and would be interested in improving your offer for babies and their parents please get in touch. There are a few minor adjustments which could make all the difference.
Babies in Museums 