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This is one of the fortresses built around the English coast on the orders of King Henry VIII to protect the country against invaders. Southsea Castle dates to around 1545, and no sooner was the castle completed than Henry's flagship, the Mary-Rose, floundered and sank in the sea water fronting the mighty castle.
The castle led a fairly peaceful existence, the only period of capture recorded came one hundred years after it was built, this was when it fell to Parliamentarian troops during the English Civil War.
Throughout its long history the castle has been strengthened and improved, most latterly was during the 19th century when a tunnel was built to defend the then, castle moat. The moat has long disappeared, but visitors to the castle may explore the tunnel, which gives an idea of what a daunting place it would seem to any would-be invader. The castle has an impressive entrance and many other fine 19th century features are retained.
Today, the castle is a fascinating museum celebrating England's seafaring history and war-time exploits. One of it's greatest treasures is the Overlord Tapestry, 272 ft long and five years in the weaving. This commemorates the D-Day invasion.
Prior to becoming a museum the castle had many other uses. It was used for a time as a military prison and a lighthouse was built there in the 1820's, this is still used by shipping today. In the 1960's the castle was released from military occupation, it was then that it was acquired by Portsmouth City Council to be restored to its former historic appearance and turned into the fine visitor attraction we see today.
in the county of Hampshire
(0.5 miles, 0.7 km)History records that this is the place where Henry VIII's flag ship "Mary Rose" sank in front of the mighty castle built by the king as one of a chain of defensive fortresses to.....
in the county of Hampshire
(1.0 miles, 1.7 km)When Henry V issued the order that effectively founded the British Navy in 1415, little could he have envisaged how the sterling deeds of centuries would add lustre to the little.....
in the county of Isle of Wight
(4.3 miles, 6.9 km, direction S)..
in the county of Isle of Wight
(4.6 miles, 7.5 km, direction SW)One of the Island's most popular resorts and is situated on the north-east coast. The town is the first port of call from the mainland on the south-east side...
in the county of Hampshire
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All towns in Hampshire
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