How HMS Vernon in Portsmouth became Gunwharf Quays | Nostalgia
The Royal Navy’s torpedo branch, also known as the torpedo school, was commissioned in April 1876.
Vernon was named after the ship of the same name, which alongside HMS Ariadne and the lighter Florence Nightingale comprised its initial floating base.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdIn 1923 it was moved into the Gunwharf site and became a ‘stone frigate’ – the name given to a 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.
To see the other 25 photos in this gallery, click here.
A message from the editor, Mark Waldron. You can subscribe here for unlimited access to Portsmouth news online - as well as less adverts, access to our digital edition and mobile app. Our trial offer starts from £2 a month for the first two months.
Comment Guidelines
National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.