Welcome to The Lightship - A restored Trinity House lightship celebrating maritime heritage on the Gosport waterfront.​

The Gosport Marine Festival Heritage Trail invites you to explore six key locations, each rich with local stories, maritime heritage, and the creative energy of Gosport’s people.

​The Lightship
The Lightship at Haslar Marina in Gosport is a historically significant vessel that has been thoughtfully restored and repurposed as a distinctive dining destination. Offering panoramic harbour views, nautical charm, and a unique culinary experience aboard a historic ship.

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Historical Background
Originally constructed in 1946 by Philip and Son Ltd. of Dartmouth, the vessel served as a Trinity House lightship, providing navigational aid to ships along the English coast. Throughout its service, it was stationed at various locations, including the Royal Sovereign station, and was decommissioned in 1993.

Mary Mouse II
After decommissioning, the lightship was acquired and moored at Haslar Marina, where it was renamed Mary Mouse II. The name honored the wives of two directors of the Portsmouth Yacht Club. Initially, the vessel served as a marina club facility and later operated as a restaurant and bar.

Recent Transformation
In 2023, the vessel underwent an extensive refurbishment led by Boatfolk Bars. The interior design, overseen by Tanya Lippuner of Vivus Design, blends art deco and mid-century elements with vintage nautical features, reflecting the ship’s maritime heritage.

The Lightship now offers a unique dining experience across its decks:

• Mid Deck: Features a high-end dining area with a seasonal menu crafted by Head Chef Jamie Fegan, showcasing locally sourced ingredients.
• Top Deck: Provides a more casual setting with seafood platters, cocktails, and panoramic views of the Solent and Portsmouth Harbour.
• The Lightship also offers luxury hotel accommodations nearby, catering to guests seeking an extended stay.
• For more information or to make a reservation, you can visit The Lightship’s official website.

Gosport Marine Festival Heritage Trail is part of Hampshire Cultural Trust’s ‘Gosport Heritage Generator’ which is funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Gosport Borough Council.