Once the largest industrial site in the world, Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard employed over 25,000 people during the Great War (World War One). And it was necessary, too, for Britain had the largest fleet in the world at almost 450 ships. In comparison, today’s record is held by China at 350 ships. 100 extra! Not bad for an island 2.8 times smaller than Texas.
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
Enjoy browsing our great guided tours…
Combine with:
The Portsmouth Historic Dockyard traces back over 800 years! That makes it the oldest dockyard in Britain’s history. Managed by the National Museum of the Royal Navy, the dockyard is home to several historic ships. If you’re a fan of naval history, you’re sure to recognise names such as: the HMS Victory (Horatio Nelson’s flagship during the Battle of Trafalgar), Mary Rose (Henry VIII’s warship, sank in 1545 and salvaged in 1982), and the HMS Warrior (the first of the infamous ironclads).
One of Britain’s most popular tourist attractions, with over 750, 000 visitors per year, Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard certainly has earned its place in history. Several Naval artefacts are on display at the dockyard’s museum. From the Battle of Trafalgar’s only surviving sail, to unique collections of torpedoes and, believe it or not, even a nuclear bomb!
Boats not your thing? Don’t worry – only a few minutes away lay thriving retail stores, restaurants, bars and cafes. Whatever your passion, Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard has plenty to see and do. If you’re visiting the South of England, Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard is a must visit. You can visit the dockyard as part of a tour of Portsmouth.
