Victorian Festival of Christmas at Portsmouth Historic Dockyards

Ever since the year I met Rich, I've wanted to go to the Victorian Festival of Christmas at Portsmouth Historic Dockyards. I'm a big fan of Victorian history (I actually once considered studying Victorian history at uni) and a total Christmas nut, so it seemed like the ultimate festive day out for me. 

After a nightmare parking (pro tip: get there before 12pm if you don't want to spend half an hour sat outside a full car park), we walked around to the entrance of the dockyards. Normally entry to the site is free but for this event it costs around £15 for an adult. However, this does include entry to all of the museums and harbour tours which would normally set you back £32 so it works out a great deal, especially when you factor in all the additional festivities.

On arrival, we were given a programme which was charmingly designed to look like a Victorian newspaper. This was really helpful as it included a map of the site and details of when and where special events would take part. 
Unfortunately, it turned out to be a pretty miserable day weather-wise. We were subjected to sudden downpours and vicious winds, which was coupled with huge crowds, meaning the indoors areas were absolutely rammed. In fact, I got talking to a lady who'd attended every year and she said it was the wettest and busiest she'd ever seen it. Typical- we left it all those years and when we do finally go, it's the worst time!
Despite the crowds and miserable weather, our spirits weren't dampened. Between spates of taking refuge in Fagin's Tavern- a marquee bar with live music- we explored Snowy Street, which was designed to look just like a Dickensian winter's street, with reenactors playing a range of Victorian characters, from judges and cockneys to prostitutes and prisoners. They were all fully in character and really got involved with the attendees. 
One of the big draws is the pre-Coca-Cola green Father Christmas but I was dissapointed to not even catch a glimpse of him. Probably my fault for not getting there early, to be honest. There was quite a lot I missed out on because of this, although I did make sure to see the oompah band and end our day with the Christmas Carol service. 
It was a lovely day out to celebrate the start of the Christmas season. I'll definitely be returning... but will arrive a lot earlier next time!
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