Portsmouth
For centuries Portsmouth has been vital to Britain’s nautical integrity and one of its largest ports. The city celebrates its status as the home of the country’s naval defences most impressively at Portsmouth Historic Boatyard. Here one can view Henry VIII’s flagship the Mary Rose (recovered from the sea bed in 1982 after nearly 440 years), Lord Nelson’s H.M.S. Victory, and the Victorian H.M.S. Warrior. Portsmouth was also the birthplace of writer Charles Dickens, in 1812; the house which witnessed his birth has been adorned to appear much as it would at that time. The area contains several castles. One of these, Fort Nelson, contains the Royal Armouries Museum. As a fully functioning naval city, Portsmouth also supports a colourful nightlife with numerous pubs, clubs and bars.