The Cumberland House Natural History Museum is a small museum dedicated to the natural environment in south Hampshire. It provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the region’s wildlife, habitats and conservation efforts. The museum is particularly known for its butterfly house, which offers a close-up view of exotic butterflies in a carefully maintained environment.
The museum is housed in an 18th-century building that has been adapted to showcase exhibits on the natural world. It aims to educate visitors about the ecosystems of Portsmouth and the surrounding areas. Displays cover topics such as local bird species, marine life and geological formations.
![Cumberland House Natural History Museum in Portsmouth, Hampshire. (Photo: Geni [CC BY-SA 4.0])](https://englandrover.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/cumberland-house-natural-history-museum.jpg)
What to see at the Cumberland House Natural History Museum
Visitors can explore exhibits on natural history including displays on local wildlife. The butterfly house is a key attraction, featuring tropical butterflies in a controlled setting. The museum also includes displays on local wildlife, including interactive exhibits that focus on Portsmouth’s coastal and woodland habitats. Fossils, taxidermy specimens and live observation areas help illustrate the region’s biodiversity.
Visiting the Cumberland House Natural History Museum
The museum is on Eastern Parade in Southsea, close to the seafront and within walking distance of other attractions including the D-Day Story and Southsea Castle, which are both a 20-minute walk from here.
It is open Tuesday to Sunday and is closed on Mondays. Note that the butterfly house closes at dusk during winter and it may sometimes be closed on extremely hot days during summer.
Admission is free of charge.
Allow 1–2 hours for your visit.
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