National Museum of the Royal Navy Portsmouth

HMS Warrior

Step aboard the pride of Queen Victoria’s Navy, and fall back in time to the age of steam onboard HMS Warrior. The very first iron-hulled warship, HMS Warrior acted as a deterrent to Britain’s enemies, and 200 years later she’s still a feat of engineering and an iconic part of Portsmouth’s skyline.

Visitors to HMS Warrior can explore the different areas of the ship, from the spacious wardroom where officers ate and discussed tactics, to the engine room where the air would’ve been thick with soot and sweat.

Any questions about HMS Warrior? Costumed interpreters are on board and in-character ready to welcome you and any questions you may have.

Plan a visit

History

HMS Warrior, launched in 1860, was a technological marvel of her time. As the world's first iron-hulled warship, she was larger, faster, and more heavily armored than any ship before her. Her impressive size and firepower made her a symbol of British naval supremacy and a deterrent to potential adversaries.

While Warrior's active service was relatively short, her impact was significant. She not only served as a powerful warship but also as a diplomatic tool, escorting royalty and touring British ports. Today, she stands as a testament to the ingenuity and engineering prowess of the Victorian era, offering visitors a glimpse into the past and a reminder of Britain's maritime heritage.

Plan Your Visit

HMS Warrior is open all year round from 10am every day*. Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is a great place to bring the family, celebrate birthdays and special occasions. You can also enjoy weekends, holidays, and days off, having quality time out in good company.

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Conservation

HMS Warrior, once a symbol of British naval might, was eventually outclassed by newer, more powerful ships. By the late 19th century, she was relegated to various reserve roles, including a torpedo training ship and a refueling pontoon.

In the late 1970s, a major restoration effort began to return Warrior to her former glory. Underwritten by Sir John Smith, the goal was to return her to how she appeared between 1861 and 1864 on her first commission. £7 million and eight years later she was restored and towed from Hartlepool to her permanent home in Portsmouth Harbour.

More than 40 years later though work hasn’t stopped. The conservation team made up of riggers, shipkeepers, conservators, painters and more are constantly at work ensuring HMS Warrior is in top shape for the hundreds of thousands of visitors that see her every year. The ongoing conservation work ensures that this iconic ship will continue to inspire and educate for generations to come.

Curator Highlights

Related Collections & Conservation

Admiring the collection from HMS Warrior is a unique experience. The artifacts, from ship's fittings to personal belongings, offer a tangible connection to the past. Each item tells a story, from the grandeur of naval power to the daily lives of the sailors who served aboard this historic vessel.

See The Collection