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Introduction - The story of RNB Portsmouth

The Royal Naval Barracks at Portsmouth opened in 1903 as only the second accommodation establishment the Royal Navy built ashore. The Admiralty originally named the establishment HMS Victory amid fears that Admiral Nelson's famed flagship would soon deteriorate. The Navy renamed it HMS Nelson in 1974 to avoid confusion.

The barracks bore witness to many significant events during the 20th century - from mutiny and mobilisation to the decline of organised naval accommodation ashore. The changes and events which took place at RNB Portsmouth during the period also illustrate wider issues of the functioning and operation of the Royal Navy at home and abroad.

Article Highlights

• Introduction - The story of RNB Portsmouth

• Ship to Shore, 1903 - 1914

• HMS Victory during World War One

• Between the Wars

• The Barracks during World War Two

• Post War Reductions

Learn about how sailors’ accommodation in Portsmouth moved ashore, select Next.