We thought we’d give you an insight into what the area looked like in the past. Some of the photos in the galley date back as far as 1770 and span 200 years of Portsmouth’s history.
They give a real idea of what life was like on the waters for the Royal Navy in our harbour years ago and includes many navy vessels that of course are long gone now. There’s a wealth of historic information that is a delight to absorb.
In light of how the harbour has changed across the decades, Portsmouth Naval Base will soon see further changes. The government is planning a major infrastructure project to upgrade the site. More jetties and berths are set to be created, with updates planned for accommodation and other buildings.
Here are a selection of images showing how Portsmouth Harbour has changed. be sure to click through all the pages to see the gallery in full.

5. Portsmouth harbour in years past
The harbour at Portsmouth, on the south coast of England, circa 1770. (Photo by Hulton Archive/Getty Images) Photo: The News archive

6. Portsmouth harbour in years past
Aerial view on the HMY Britannia sailing to Portsmouth Harbour, UK, 30th May 1965. (Photo by Daily Express/Hulton Archive/Getty Images) Photo: The News archive

7. Portsmouth harbour in years past
23rd May 1970: Six Sea Cadets stand atop the Polaris submarine HMS Resolution while it docks in Portsmouth harbour. (Photo by Central Press/Getty Images) Photo: The News archive

8. Portsmouth harbour in years past
Prison Hulks in Portsmouth Harbour - 1806. From the original painting by Hoppey Turner in the possession of Major E. Emanuel, The Hard, Portsea, Portsmouth Harbour. (Photo by Hulton Archive/Getty Images) Photo: The News archive


.jpg?width=96&crop=1:1,smart)