Discover the My vill of Portsmouth Exhibition

This year, as Portsmouth celebrates 100 years of city status, Portsmouth Cathedral invites you to explore the story of a place shaped by the sea, faith and everyday people.

My vill of Portsmouth is a free exhibition that follows the city’s journey from its earliest beginnings in 1180 through to the present day. The title comes from the first known reference to Portsmouth, when Jean de Gisors described the area as “my vill of Portsmouth”. From that small medieval settlement on Portsea Island grew Britain’s only island city.

The exhibition brings this story to life through artefacts, images, information boards and interactive screens designed to make local history accessible for all ages. Whether you have lived in Portsmouth for years or are visiting for the first time, there is something here to discover.

Visitors can explore moments of courage and change that shaped the city. Learn about the Civil War and the cannon fire that damaged the Cathedral tower. Discover the story of the Mary Rose, built in Portsmouth and raised from the Solent centuries after she sank. Reflect on life in the city during the Second World War and the resilience shown during Portsmouth’s “Long Trial”. The exhibition also traces the Cathedral’s own story, from humble parish church to the “Cathedral of the Sea”.

Throughout the space, clear interpretation and engaging displays help families explore together at their own pace. Interactive elements encourage curiosity, while historic objects offer a direct link to the people and events that shaped Portsmouth.

Located in the heart of Old Portsmouth, My vill of Portsmouth is one of the free things to do in Portsmouth this half term and beyond. It offers a welcoming, thoughtful space to learn more about the city’s past and reflect on how it continues to shape the present.

We look forward to welcoming you to Portsmouth Cathedral to uncover the story of our city.

More information can be found here.