The Ramparts

The earthwork ramparts at Priddy’s Hard, constructed as part of the Gosport Lines, served as defensive fortifications for Portsmouth Harbour and the Royal Dockyard. Established in the late 18th century, these ramparts were strategically positioned to protect the naval installations from potential threats.

Originally, the ramparts were part of a comprehensive network of fortifications influenced by the work of the French military engineer Vauban. Designed with protruding bastions, a moat, and glacis slopes, they formed a substantial defensive line aimed at safeguarding Portsmouth Harbour, which had become a prominent naval base by the end of the 18th century.

Over time, the ramparts underwent modifications and enhancements to adapt to changing military needs. They played a crucial role in defending the harbour against potential attacks, particularly during periods of geopolitical tension.

The decision in 1776 by the Ordnance Board and the First Lord of the Admiralty to relocate gunpowder storage from the Square Tower in Portsmouth to Priddy’s Hard underscored the importance of the ramparts. Serving as a blast wall, they protected the surrounding area from the occasional accidental explosions that had caused significant loss of life in Portsmouth.

As part of Portsmouth’s coastal defences, the ramparts symbolize the commitment to fortifying key naval assets during a critical period in maritime history. Their strategic significance is evident in their role as vital components of the broader defensive network surrounding Portsmouth Harbour.

Today, the surviving ramparts at Priddy’s Hard stand as tangible reminders of Britain’s maritime heritage and its dedication to national security. While the landscape has evolved over time, with later structures and modifications altering their appearance, the ramparts continue to represent a pivotal era in naval history.