Southsea Castle was one in a series of forts constructed for King Henry VIII.
The castle was built in 1544, as there were fears of a French attack on Portsmouth. It was believed to have been designed by the King himself. Not long after the castle was completed, on 18 July 1545, the French approached Portsmouth after landing on the Isle of Wight.
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Henry VIII sent out his fleet and was at Southsea Castle for the Battle of the Solent. Sadly his much-loved flagship The Mary Rose sank during the battle.
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9. Southsea Castle from the past
The Royal car arriving at Southsea Castle at the start of her visit in June 1977. The News PP4020 Photo: The News archive
11. Southsea Castle from the past
The Royal Marines band beat the retreat at Southsea Castle to mark the return of the Royal Marines headquarters to Portsmouth, 1993. The News PP5160 Photo: The News archive
