Overview

With miles of natural harbors, Portsmouth is known for its rich maritime history. The city has been forever bound to the sea ever since Henry VII declared Portsmouth the home of the Royal Navy. Visitors come to see firsthand the historic ships at the Royal Naval Base: The HMS Victory, England's first "iron-clad"; the HMS Warrior, Nelson's victorious ship at the Battle of Trafalgar; and the Mary Rose, Henry VIII's flagship that went down just offshore in 1545. To commemorate their maritime heritage, the city recently completed the Portsmouth Harbour Millennium project, which features the 500-foot Spinnaker Tower. In addition to the historic dockyard, tourists should check out the charming Old Town and the quaint resort at Southsea. Other highlights include Charles Dickens' birthplace, the D-Day Museum, and the Roman ruins at Portchester Castle.

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