- Portsmouth is a city of about 189,000 people located in the county of Hampshire on the southern coast of the United Kingdom. Most of the city lies on Portsea Island, located where the Solent joins the English Channel. This makes Portsmouth the UK’s only island city.
- A significant naval port for centuries, Portsmouth is home to the world’s oldest dry dock, which is still in use today, and to world famous historic ships, including HMS Victory, HMS Warrior and King Henry VIII’s Mary Rose.
- In World War I, the naval dockyard was the largest industrial site in the world.
- The Spinnaker Tower in Gunwharf Quays opened in 2005 and is a new icon for the city. At 170 metres high, it has already changed the skyline forever and provides an unparalleled view of Portsmouth and the surrounding area.
- Portsmouth is the base for the majority of the Navy’s warships. The Solent water sees over 1,000 military shipping movements taking place each year as part of the Ministry of Defence’s continued naval activities.
- Many famous people have been born in Portsmouth, or have lived here during their lives. Some are shown below.
Henry Ayers (1821 – 1887). Premier of the colony of South Australia and had Ayers Rock named after him.
Isambard Kingdom Brunel (1806 – 1859). He is best known for the creation of the Great Western Railway, a series of famous steamships, and numerous important bridges.
James Callaghan, Baron Callaghan of Cardiff, KG, PC (1912 – 2005). Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1976 – 1979.
Peter Sellers, CBE (1925 – 1980). Comedian and actor best known for his role as Inspector Clouseau in The Pink Panther films.
Michelle Magonian, author of children’s books, including Goodnight Mr Tom, Back Home and A Little Love Song.
Spinnaker Tower and waterfront
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