Portsmouth City Museum & Records Office

The City Museum's main display is "The Story of Portsmouth". Changes to the ground floor gallery in July 2007 brings The World of Sherlock Holmes, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and the creation of a hero. This is the Richard Lancelyn Green's bequest, that his vast collection of Conan Doyle Memorabilia be open and publicly accessible. This major exhibiton will be a new addition to the City Museum displays.

On the first floor, "Living in Portsmouth" looks back at life in the home with reconstructions of a 17th century bedchamber, and 1871 dockyard workers' kitchen, a Victorian parlour, a 1930's kitchen and a 1950's living room, as well as "Portsmouth at Play", the continuing "Story of Portsmouth".

The museum also features a Fine and Decorative Art Gallery and a temporary Exhibitions Gallery with regular changing displays.

The Records Office is housed in the same building and contains official City archives dating back to the 14th century, parish records and large collections of material deposited by local businesses, organisations and families. In the quiet atmosphere of the Records Office you can research your family history from our extensive city, business and church records.

There is wheelchair access by lifts to all galleries. There is a tea shop with selection of hot and cold food, snacks and drinks. Afternoon teas served.