ROYAL ARMOURIES
Built during the 1860s by Lord Palmerston, Fort Nelson forms part of a chain of defences built around Portsmouth, to protect the Royal Dockyard,
home of the Royal Navy, from attack by the French.
These defences included a string of forts along Portsdown Hill, the four sea forts built in the Solent and forts and defencive improvements at Portsmouth Harbour, Gosport and the Isle of Wight.
The Royal Armouries at Fort Nelson is home to the national collection of historic cannon and big guns.
This is one of the finest collections in the world with over 350 cannon dating back over 600 years and from every corner of the earth.
The collection was originally housed at the Tower of London and was moved to Fort Nelson in 1995.
Every day, visitors can see one of the big guns being fired and explore secret underground tunnels and enjoy incredible views from the ramparts.
An extensive programme of special event spectaculars takes place throughout the year.
Fort Nelson is open every day except 24th to 26th December.
April to October 10am - 5pm (Wed 11am - 5pm),
November - March 10.30am - 4pm (Wed 11.30 - 4pm).
Admission is free, although there are admission charges for special events.
Address: Royal Armouries Museum, Fort Nelson, Portsdown Hill Road, Fareham, Hants. PO17 6AN
Tel: 01329 233734
Web: www.royalarmouries.org
