English Heritage, Royal Garrison Church Guidebook

Client

English Heritage

Role

Design and layout, print design, book design, print management

Location

Portsmouth, Hampshire, UK

Project

The Royal Garrison Church is one of Portsmouth’s most atmospheric historic sites, with a layered history stretching back to its foundation in 1212.

English Heritage wanted a feature book that could introduce visitors to the church’s story, explain key architectural moments, and help people better understand the objects and details found on site.

ABG Design was commissioned to design a room guide book for the Royal Garrison Church. The publication explores the church’s history, from its origins as a medieval hostel and hospital for pilgrims, through 19th-century restoration, to the damage it suffered during the Portsmouth Blitz in 1941.

Royal Garrison Church book front cover close up

Royal Garrison Church book Textiles page

Solution

Focused on the still-roofed chancel, the book highlights stained glass, artefacts, and architectural features found within the space, combining clear storytelling with thoughtful design.

The result is an accessible, well-crafted guide that supports the visitor experience and offers a lasting insight into this remarkable English Heritage site.