The hype
Travelers love the friendly staff and prime location but often mention the decor feels like a step back in time.
The Royal Maritime Club
$80-180/ night
Book this if You want a budget-friendly, character-filled base right next to the Historic Dockyard and don't mind a bit of naval nostalgia.
Why People Love It
- Unbeatable location 5 minutes from HMS Victory and Gunwharf Quays
- Genuine club atmosphere with a library, skittles alley, and naval memorabilia
- Surprisingly good leisure facilities including a pool, jacuzzi, and steam room
Quick Take: It’s a quirky, charitable institution first and a hotel second—expect dated charm and unbeatable value over modern luxury.
Reviewed by @Shelleylovestotravel: I honestly loved the unpretentious vibe here. Yes, the decor is a bit retro (those carpets!), but having a proper indoor pool and leisure centre right in Portsmouth was amazing. It feels like a safe, quiet haven with real history. Perfect for a relaxing solo trip.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'Budget' rooms are genuinely tiny (pod-like) and the breakfast buffet can get chaotic during peak times.
- You are a history buff or visiting the Naval Dockyards
- You appreciate value and don't need 'Instagrammable' aesthetics
- You want a hotel with a pool and games room for rainy days
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Daily service is reliable; rooms are generally tidy but can feel 'tired'.
- Bathroom hygiene: Bathrooms are clean but dated; grout is usually scrubbed well, though wear and tear is visible.
- Maintenance: Common areas like corridors show scuffs and worn carpets; elevators are old but functional.
- Linens & towels: Towels are standard hotel grade, clean but not plush; bedding is fresh.
- Odors & scents: Generally fresh, though some hallways have a faint 'old building' or cleaning product smell.
Sleepability™
7MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Wedding/party music from function rooms until midnight
- Street noise for rooms facing Queen Street
- Creaky floorboards in older corridors
Before you book
Good to know
- The hotel is a registered charity; profits support veterans and naval families.
- Pool hours are restricted: Mon-Fri 15:30-20:00, Sat-Sun 08:00-20:00.
- Breakfast is a buffet; arrive early (before 8:30am) to avoid the rush and get fresh eggs.
What to pack
- Earplugs (essential for weekends)
- Swimsuit for the pool and jacuzzi
- Smart-casual clothes if you plan to dine in the formal club areas
Room Genie
Best picks
- West Wing rooms (recently refurbished and more accessible)
- Top floor rooms facing away from Queen Street for better quiet
Rooms to avoid
- Rooms directly above the 'Below Decks' function room on weekends
- Budget double rooms if you are claustrophobic (very tight squeeze)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am a light sleeper and would appreciate a room in the West Wing or on a high floor, as far away from the Trafalgar Ballroom and Below Decks function areas as possible.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is parking guaranteed?
No. It's free but first-come, first-served. If full, reception sells scratchcards (£4.50-£6.00/24h) for street zones JA/JD.
Is the pool free for guests?
Yes, but hours are limited (afternoons on weekdays, all day weekends) due to hydrotherapy sessions.
Can I bring my dog?
No, the hotel has a strict no-pets policy, with exceptions only for registered assistance dogs.
Is there AC in the rooms?
Most rooms do not have air conditioning; fans are provided, but it can get stuffy in summer.
How close is the train station?
Portsmouth Harbour Station is a 5-6 minute flat walk away.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, families like the pool, games room (snooker/skittles), and proximity to the ships.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Ask to see the 'Below Decks' room even if no event is on—it's designed like a ship's engine room.
- ✨
The library on the first floor is a hidden quiet zone perfect for reading or working.
- ✨
You can get a discount on Historic Dockyard tickets—ask at reception before you buy them online.
5 things to know before you go
💡The hotel was bombed in WWII and rebuilt by the Royal Navy in the 1950s.
💡There is a full two-lane skittles alley available for guest use (rare find!).
💡The 'West Wing' rooms were refurbished with funding from Help for Heroes and are significantly more modern.
💡It operates as a charity, so your stay technically supports a good cause.
💡The lift system can be confusing with different lifts serving different wings/floors.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Royal Maritime Club is located and what's nearby.