Portsmouth Cumberland House natural history museum reopens

Portsmouth’s Cumberland House natural history museum reopens on Saturday 8th April, with a fresh new look.

The building has been closed for repairs, redecoration, the installation of a new wheelchair ramp, and work to bring the terrace at the back of the building to its former glory.

Staff have been busy returning the museum’s fascinating natural specimens to their places following the work.

The museum will be open free of charge from Tuesdays to Sundays and on bank holidays, from 10:00am to 5:30pm — with last admission at 4:30pm each day.

The old tropical butterfly house at the rear of the building has been demolished, and work is now underway to create a new one, due to open this summer.

The museum garden will also be planted to make it a haven for British butterflies.

Councillor Linda Symes, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure, and Sport at Portsmouth City Council, said: “Cumberland House is much loved by local people, especially families, and it’s great to have it open again.

“It’s a grand old building that needs care and attention. The work over the last few months has been well worthwhile, and the rear is now looking much the same as it did when it was built.

“We’re now looking forward to the next stage of improvements – the new butterfly house. This will be a modern visitor attraction with a more natural environment for the butterflies and more value as an educational facility.”

Cumberland House showcases a selection of Portsmouth’s 114,000 natural science specimens and a new bee hive.