HMS Warrior
HMS Warrior
Britain’s first iron-hulled, armoured battleship. Launched in 1860, at a time of empire and Britain’s dominance in trade and industry, Warrior was powered by steam and sail, she was the largest, fastest and most powerful warship of her day and had a lasting influence on naval architecture and design. Work and life on board reflected both the changes the Royal Navy experienced as it evolved into a professional service and the shifts in Victorian society.
Built to counter the latest French battleship, Warrior was, in her time, the ultimate deterrent. Yet by igniting a new era in naval technology, she soon became outdated.
Key Facts
Groundbreaking Innovation
The fastest and most powerful warship in centuries
36 Guns
The first warship to use percussion fuse shells
Zero Battles
HMS Warrior kept the peace by dettering potential enemies
90k Sea Miles
Patroled British coastal waters and made voyages to Lisbon and Gibraltar
700 Man Crew
Manpower was essential for the guns, the sails, capstans, ropes and the engine.
160 Years
HMS Warrior is the last of the 45 iron hulled ships built between1861 and 77
Plan Your Visit
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is open all year round at 10am every day. The Historic Dockyard is a place to bring the family, celebrate birthdays and special occasions. Enjoy weekends, holidays and days off, having quality time out in good company.
Plan your upcoming visit to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard with our handy guide, everything you'll need to plan your visit, before you arrive and while you’re here.
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, Victory Gate, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth PO1 3LJ
Opening times: 10am – 5pm
Conservation
The National Museum of the Royal Navy is committed to preserving the pride of Queen Victoris's fleet, HMS Warrior.
As Britain’s first iron-hulled, armoured battleship, HMS Warrior represents the innovation and might of the Royal Navy.
Discover Our Virtual Museum
Dive into the museum from the comfort of your home with a virtual self-guided tour of HMS Victory.
Step aboard Admiral Lord Nelson’s flagship and join our curators as they explore artefacts from Victory’s heyday.
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