Our Heritage

We take pride in our stewardship of the buildings and spaces within Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and at Priddy’s Hard in Gosport, as well as the historic vessels in our collection. Our role extends beyond mere physical preservation; we are the custodians of their stories.

Our position is unique, entrusted with the care and preservation of the buildings and spaces linked to the Royal Navy around Portsmouth Harbour. This responsibility is not just our priority but our passion.

At Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, we cultivate a welcoming environment and reinforce its status as the city’s historic heart. Through collaboration with key tenants and partners, we are dedicated to transforming it into a vibrant, living dockyard.

Likewise, we are committed to the development of Priddy’s Hard into a thriving, diverse community. Rooted in its heritage, we seek to unlock its potential to drive regeneration along the Gosport waterfront, generating income and activity for the area.

Breathing New Life into Heritage

At the core of our mission is a dedication to breathing new life into our cherished heritage, securing its legacy for future generations. We regenerate and invigorate historic spaces and vessels, preserving their essence while sparking inspiration and attracting creative minds.

Through collaborative partnerships, such as those with artist Pete Codling and the establishment of Ankle Deep studios, we foster innovation and cultural exchange, nurturing an inclusive community. Our collaboration with partners the Mary Rose Museum and the National Museum of the Royal Navy bolster ongoing capital and cultural development across our sites. Membership of the Heritage Alliance and other industry and sector bodies supports broader heritage collaboration and advocacy.

We deliver sustainable initiatives, alongside accessible and inclusive events and volunteer opportunities, ensuring that our heritage remains a source of enrichment for all.

Our Sites

Priddy’s Hard in Gosport, established in 1777, boasts a storied past as one of the world’s oldest ordnance depots, its sprawling 25-acre site encompassing historic magazines, earthwork defences, and a legacy of military significance.

Meanwhile, Historic Dockyard Portsmouth traces its origins back to King Richard I’s decree in 1194, evolving into a vibrant maritime hub housing the world’s first dry dock and pioneering industrial facilities. Together, these sites serve as bastions of naval heritage, preserving centuries of maritime legacy for posterity.

Priddy’s Hard Master plan

At Priddy’s Hard, our journey of development reflects our commitment to preserving history while embracing community growth. We’ve achieved significant milestones, including the conversion of E Magazine into the Powder Monkey microbrewery, converting an historic case store into a taphouse, and creating the facilities for the National Museum of the Royal Navy’s Night Hunter’s exhibition.

Now, our focus shifts to a thoughtful plan, guided by what’s best for the site and its surrounding communities.

Architect Stephen Witherford has crafted a masterplan rooted in our site’s rich history, proposing a cohesive vision that transforms Priddy’s Hard into a vibrant public space. This vision includes diverse activities, from cultural and educational to residential, fostering a strong community ethos.

We’ve already begun fostering cultural and creative endeavours, with organizations like Port and Lemon leasing space at Carpenters’ Yard. As we continue this journey, we’re dedicated to creating a place where history, creativity, and community thrive in harmony.