Historic Portsmouth Dockyard and HMS Victory

Flag Ship of Lord Nelson at the Batte of Trafalgar

Obviously, everyone is aware that Great Britain once had a great empire and it’s wealth and trade was all built by The Royal Navy. The Royal Navy, at first, protected us from invaders before expanding its role around the world right up to today. However one battle which is remembered around the world is The Battle of Trafalgar which saw a mighty victory gained but at the loss of our most famous sailor, Admiral Nelson.

Our visit to Portsmouth on the South Coast is centred upon Nelsons flagship. Explore his ship from top to bottom and experience the life of a 19th Century sailor in the Napoleonic wars on the first modern navy ship, in fact, HMS Victory is the world oldest commissioned war warship. See the terrible medical centre and stand on the spot where Nelson was slain.

HMS Victory is just one of many highlights of Portsmouth Harbour. The Mary Rose was King Henry 8ths flagship which sank with all hands on board just outside Portsmouth Harbour. It remained on the seabed until the 1980’s but it has now been salvaged along with a wealth of items from its stores and sailors. Other attractions include HMS Warrior, the first Ironclad vessel and the Naval Museum. A tour of Portsmouth Harbour is often interesting if you have your sea legs on you as Portsmouth Harbour remains one of the Royal Navy’s principal ports so whatever navy ship is present, you’ll see it.

Finally, why not admire the views from the top of Spinnaker Tower or sit at one of the old pubs that have served sailors for centuries and try some fresh fish and chips.