For a venue brimming with enthralling history and awe-inspiring views inside and out, look no further than the Mary Rose Museum.
In the heart of Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, next to Admiral Lord Nelson’s world-famous HMS Victory, the museum features the only 16th century warship on the display in the world – The Mary Rose.
Henry VIII’s flagship was raised from the seabed 35 years ago and now forms the majestic centrepiece of this venue – providing a magical backdrop for any wedding that is guaranteed a real sense of occasion and grandeur.
Thanks to a transformational revamp of the museum a year ago, guests can now experience stunning panoramic views of the ship from all nine galleries through floor-to-ceiling glazing on the lower and main decks. 
The museum is licensed to hold civil marriage and civil partnership ceremonies and has a number of event spaces suited for different requirements. As well as weddings, its event spaces are ideally suited to other celebrations, including anniversaries.
Day-time ceremonies take place in the Wardroom Suite, an intimate space that looks out over HMS Victory and has a capacity of 16 guests sitting around in an informal setting.
For larger ceremonies, the beautiful Admiral’s Gallery is the museum’s crowning glory. With a capacity of around 100 guests, the gallery provides an atmospheric space for any evening ceremony and reception. Guests will be able to dine among the very finest treasures recovered from the Mary Rose, including pewter plates and Tudor musical instruments. The gallery is totally unique and can be an exciting space for dinners, drinks and, of course, dancing.
When booking the Admiral’s Gallery you unlock exclusive evening access to all three floors of the museum. Guests will be fascinated as the venue’s knowledgeable staff and volunteers help guide them through the remarkable story of this gem of maritime history that is now more than half a millennium old.
The premium offering for any ceremony and reception is the museum’s Upper Deck, which has a capacity of 40 and will bring guests closer than ever before to the Mary Rose. Located in the main ship hall and offering uninterrupted views of the restored timbers, it is the closest thing to actually tying the knot on the ship itself. This is a space that really must be seen in person to appreciate its breathtaking beauty.
For interesting photo opportunities and an area for guests to enjoy drinks and canapes, the museum offers The Bridge Balcony. Overlooking HMS Victory and the ever-changing views of the harbour as vessels come and go, this is a space that guests will want to return to again and again.
And the variety of venue spaces doesn’t end there. The North Pavilion is a delightful area for ceremonies and drinks receptions. This light and spacious setting with an outside area is a blank canvas upon which you can truly express your personalities.
With a commitment to serving the best locally-sourced ingredients from Hampshire, the museum offers outstanding catering for any reception. With a choice of five approved caterers, each with their own creative menus, all different gastronomic preferences, special dietary requirements and varying budgets can be accommodated.
Letting its history do the talking, the Mary Rose Museum offers something to suit every couple’s individual and unique needs. The events team can tailor the venue to your exact needs and will work with every couple to create a truly personalised occasion that guests will remember for the rest of their lives.
For more details about this inspirational venue, visit http://www.maryrose.org/venue-hire/weddings/
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