Did you know that on the mezzanine above our reception, we have model ships and ships' plaques? The Royal Maritime Hotel is quite the treasure trove of Maritime History. We even have a library full of books, ships plaques and artefacts.

Portsmouth itself is a city with a rich maritime history, dating back centuries.

Key events and aspects of Portsmouth's maritime history:

1. Roman Times: Portsmouth was first settled by the Romans in the 1st century AD. They built a port here, which was used for trade and military purposes.
2. Norman Conquest: After the Norman Conquest in 1066, Portsmouth became an important port for the English fleet. Southsea castle which still stands today was built in the late 12th century to protect the harbour.
3. Tudor Era: In the Tudor era, Portsmouth grew in importance as a naval base. Henry VIII built the first dry dock here in 1495, and the Mary Rose, his flagship, sank in the Solent in 1545. The Mary Rose Museum is in Portsmouth Historic Dockyard just a few minutes walk from our hotel.
4. Napoleonic Wars: During the Napoleonic Wars, Portsmouth was a key naval base for the British Navy. The Victory, Nelson's flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar, was based here and can be visited today in Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, just a few minutes walk away from our hotel
5. World War I: In World War I, Portsmouth was an important base for the Royal Navy. Many ships were built and repaired here, and the city was bombed by the Germans.
6. World War II: In World War II, Portsmouth was again a key naval base for the British Navy. The city suffered significant damage from German bombing, including the destruction of the Guildhall and our own building, then known as the Royal Sailors' Home Club. The original Royal Sailors' Home Club was destroyed in the bombing in the blitz on 10th March 1941. We are also lucky enough to have The D Day Story museum which is situated on Portsmouth seafront and tells of everything that happened that fateful day.
7. Modern Era: Today, Portsmouth is still an important naval base, with the Royal Navy's operational headquarters located here. The city also has a thriving ferry port, with ferries departing for destinations across the UK, Europe, and beyond.

Throughout its history, Portsmouth has been a hub of maritime activity, playing a key role in the defence and commerce of the UK.

Come aboard and stay with us and see this marvellous city for yourself.