A summer evening at Fort Nelson is getting a theatrical twist on Friday 4 September 2026, when Illyria brings its outdoor production of The Three Musketeers to the Parade Ground. The performance runs from 6pm to around 8pm, with doors opening at 5:30pm, giving visitors time to settle in before the action begins. It is an appealing option for anyone who enjoys live theatre but would rather watch it under open skies than inside a traditional auditorium.
Every week we pick 🏆 the 5 best 🏆 things to do in Portsmouth and send them to your inbox. Just one weekly email, no spam.
By submitting your email, you accept our Privacy Policy
The setting is part of the experience. Fort Nelson sits on Portsdown Hill, overlooking Portsmouth Harbour, and is home to the Royal Armouries’ national collection of artillery. The Victorian fort has ramparts, tunnels and a large Parade Ground, where the production will take place. The play itself follows young D’Artagnan as he tries to join the King’s Guard alongside Athos, Porthos and Aramis. Illyria’s version combines the familiar adventure with sword fights, romance, political plotting and comedy, with the company’s stage combat at the centre of the show.
The performance lasts approximately 135 minutes, including a 20-minute interval, and is recommended for audiences aged eight and over. Younger children can attend, although the organisers note that the production includes scenes of peril, politics and passion. This is an outdoor event, so visitors should bring their own seating and dress for the conditions. The seating area is gravel, which means picnic blankets are not recommended. Only assistance dogs are permitted, and the venue information states that the performance area is not wheelchair accessible.
Tickets are available through the Royal Armouries. Adult admission is £19.50 plus a £1.64 booking fee, making £21.14 in total. Children aged 0 to 16 pay £10.84 plus a £1.84 booking fee, or £11.78 altogether. A registered carer can attend free with one paid booking. General admission to Fort Nelson is free, although this theatre performance requires its own ticket. With the fort’s historic surroundings, an evening start and a classic adventure at its centre, the event offers a different way to spend time in Portsmouth’s cultural calendar.
Published Date
20 August 2026
