Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is one of the United Kingdom's most iconic heritage attractions, offering visitors the opportunity to explore over 500 years of British naval history. Home to legendary attractions including HMS Victory, HMS Warrior, the Mary Rose Museum, and the National Museum of the Royal Navy, the Dockyard welcomes thousands of visitors each year.
This summer, visitors can enjoy Create Your Own Cowdray, an engaging workshop hosted by the Mary Rose Museum. Running from 29 July 2026 until 28 August 2026, the activity celebrates Portsmouth's maritime heritage through creative, family-focused experiences inspired by the famous Cowdray Engraving depicting the Battle of the Solent.
Event
Create Your Own Cowdray invites visitors to explore Tudor history through hands-on arts and crafts. Participants will learn about the Battle of the Solent of 1545—the historic battle during which the Mary Rose sank—before creating their own artwork inspired by the renowned Cowdray Engraving.
Professional museum educators provide guidance throughout the activity, making it suitable for visitors of all ages. Children can express their creativity while adults discover fascinating historical stories behind one of England's most famous naval battles.
What Visitors Can Expect
The workshop combines education with creativity. Guests begin by learning about Tudor Portsmouth, King Henry VIII's navy, and the significance of the Mary Rose before participating in practical craft sessions.
Visitors will:
- Discover the history behind the Cowdray Engraving.
- Learn about Tudor ships and naval warfare.
- Create personalized artwork inspired by historical scenes.
- Explore authentic Mary Rose artifacts.
- Enjoy interactive family learning experiences.
The workshop is designed for beginners, so no artistic experience is required.
Why Attend
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard provides a unique environment where history comes alive. Rather than simply viewing exhibits, participants actively engage with Tudor culture through creative activities.
Reasons to attend include:
- Educational family entertainment.
- Hands-on historical learning.
- Expert museum facilitators.
- Access to world-famous maritime collections.
- Opportunity to combine the workshop with a full Dockyard visit.
The Mary Rose Museum Experience
The Mary Rose Museum houses thousands of remarkable Tudor artifacts recovered from Henry VIII's flagship. Visitors can view personal belongings, weapons, tools, clothing, and preserved remains that reveal everyday life aboard a Tudor warship.
Attending the workshop provides an excellent opportunity to spend additional time exploring the museum's galleries and exhibitions.
Family-Friendly Activities
The workshop has been specifically designed to engage younger visitors while remaining enjoyable for adults. Families can work together to create artwork inspired by Tudor history and continue exploring other Dockyard attractions throughout the day.
Additional attractions include:
- HMS Victory
- HMS Warrior 1860
- National Museum of the Royal Navy
- Harbour views
- Historic buildings and exhibitions
Educational Benefits
Students and educators benefit from an immersive learning environment where history is presented through practical activities. The workshop encourages creativity while reinforcing historical knowledge about Tudor England and naval history.
Participants gain insights into:
- Tudor art
- Maritime history
- Historical illustration
- Naval warfare
- Museum collections
Visitor Information
The event takes place inside the Mary Rose Museum within Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.
Visitors should arrive before the session begins to allow sufficient time for entry and museum access.
Comfortable clothing is recommended for craft activities.
Advance ticket booking is advisable during the summer holiday period.
Why Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is internationally recognized for preserving Britain's naval heritage. It combines interactive museums, historic ships, educational programming, and family attractions within one remarkable destination.
Its summer events programme provides visitors with opportunities to experience history beyond traditional museum exhibitions through workshops, demonstrations, storytelling sessions, and interactive learning.
Final Thoughts
Create Your Own Cowdray offers an enjoyable blend of creativity, education, and history. Whether you are a family seeking summer activities, a history enthusiast, or a visitor exploring Portsmouth, this workshop provides an engaging introduction to the fascinating story of the Mary Rose and Tudor naval history.
Combined with everything else Portsmouth Historic Dockyard has to offer, the event promises a memorable day filled with discovery, learning, and creativity for visitors of every age.
Key Event Highlights
- Tudor-inspired hands-on craft workshops
- Learn about the Battle of the Solent (1545)
- Family-friendly creative activities
- Explore Mary Rose Museum exhibits
- Included with Dockyard admission
Venue & Location Info
Timings
Entry Fees
Event Type
Estimated Turnout & Audience
Community Reviews
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