The Royal Navy’s torpedo branch also known as the torpedo school, it was commissioned in April 1876.
HMS Vernon was named after the ship of the same name, which alongside HMS Ariadne and the lighter Florence Nightingale made up its floating base initially.
In 1923, post-World War One, it was moved into the Gunwharf site and became a ‘stone frigate’ – the name given to naval establishment on land.
It was integral in the D-Day preparations.
HMS Vernon continued as a naval base, specialising in mine warfare, but ceased to be an independent command on March 31, 1986. It was renamed HMS Nelson (Vernon site) and then later HMS Nelson (Gunwharf).
It briefly became the Headquarters for the Commandant General Royal Marines and continued to be used for training.
In April 1996, the various elements comprising the establishment were split up and moved to different commands.
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5. HMS Vernon makes way for Gunwharf Quays
A trolleybus passing the main gate to HMS Vernon, now an entrance to Gunwharf Quays. Photo: The News archive

6. HMS Vernon makes way for Gunwharf Quays
Before Gunwharf Quays. An aerial view of HMS Vernon in 1955 when the torpedo and mine warfare establishment. Photo: The News archive

7. HMS Vernon makes way for Gunwharf Quays
An aerial view of HMS Vernon, Portsmouth on October 5, 1981. The News PP4255 Photo: The News archive

8. HMS Vernon makes way for Gunwharf Quays
This evocative aerial photograph of Old Portsmouth dates from about 1948. Above the lock are the buildings of HMS Vernon. Photo: .The News archive