New bid for National Lottery fund to revive plans for £13m Royal Marines Museum

In the 360th anniversary year of the elite amphibious force, custodians of its legacy are pursuing nearly £5m in lottery funding to propel the new £13m Royal Marines Museum plans. 

The Old Museum in Eastney closed its doors in 2017, aiming to reopen in Boathouse No.6 at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard by 2020 with a more modern, interactive exhibition.  

Hinging on substantial National Lottery support, the project could unlock additional financial backing through fundraising and pledges, as museum leaders, undeterred by the initial bid rejection and pandemic-induced delays, embark on a fresh lottery application.  

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A successful outcome, anticipated in June, would set the stage for the new museum's unveiling in 2026.  

"For a big story, you need a big canvas, a big space – the boathouse is a perfect location," said Matthew Sheldon, acting director general of the National Museum of the Royal Navy. 

"The plans have been re-drawn since the initial bid was made with the emphasis now very much on the story of the Royal Marines Commandos from World War Two through to the present day, and how they fit in with the work of the wider Royal Navy."

The exhibit will be physically interactive and appealing to museumgoers of all ages.  

While Mr Sheldon said that telling the proud 360-year history of the corps is important, the museum will also shed light on the Royal Marines' present-day responsibilities and missions.