Tour of Former Royal Naval Hospital Haslar, Gosport – Saturday 16 August 2025

A group of Company members and their guests gathered at St Luke’s Church on the hospital site, and we were given a brief history of the hospital by a Haslar Heritage Group guide. Built in the 1740s, the hospital was one of Britain’s leading Naval Hospitals for over 250 years. It is reported to be the largest hospital in the world when it was opened and was the largest brick-built building in Europe.

We set off in guided groups around the site lead by guides who had previously worked there, and they highlighted historical facts and outlined the plans and thoughts for the development of the Grade II listed buildings. The developers are working closely with the Heritage Group, and the aim is to have a village with a retirement element for residents, retail and community facilities.

A fascinating visit was followed by a lunch at a local restaurant near the Haslar Marina where we were able to enjoy the wonderful view! Many in the group would like to return in a few years to see the progress of the development.