Free Entry
Royal Garrison Church was built in about 1212 by the Bishop of Winchester as part of a hospital and hostel for pilgrims. Used as an ammunition store after the Reformation, it became part of the governor of Portsmouth’s house during Elizabeth I’s reign. The church was restored in the 19th century, and although the nave was badly damaged in a 1941 firebomb raid on Portsmouth, the chancel is still roofed and furnished. Fine 20th-century stained-glass windows depict scenes from the Second World War and from the church’s own history.
Read more about the history of Royal Garrison Church.
Before You Go
Parking: There is short-stay, roadside parking adjacent to the church. There is also a charged car park within a minute from the site, not managed by English Heritage.
Opening Times: Royal Garrison Church is open from 1st April Thursday Friday & Saturday, from 11am - 4pm, from April until end of October. The site is closed from October until March. View details.
Access: Parts of the site are wheelchair accessible.
Dogs: Assistance dogs only.
Plan a Great Day Out
Make the most of your day in Portsmouth by including a walk around the town to view the King James's and Landport Gates.
You could also visit Fort Brockhurst, a largely unaltered example of a fort built in the 1850s to protect Portsmouth against French invasion. Please check the opening hours before you visit as they are limited.
Or why not follow the history of the impressive Portchester Castle. An exhibition in the Keep includes finds excavated on the site and the audio tour explains life in the castle from the point of view of people who worked or were imprisoned there. Finish up your visit with a picnic in the castle grounds or on the shore of the Solent, and don't forget to browse in the gift shop.
