Nelson's other Column

Set back slightly from the top of the chalk ridge that is of Portsdown Hill overlooking Portsmouth Harbour is the original Nelson's column.

Built in 1807 to 1808 as a monument to the famous Admiral, his success at the Battle of Trafalgar during which he was mortally wounded by musket fire from an nearby French ship, the column also provided a useful sea mark for navigators.

Designed originally by John Groves the column stands 28.3 meters / 92 feet 10.5 inches high standing on the 300 feet contour line, funding of £3,000 was raised. by the donation of 2 days pay from all who took part in the battle, which considering what they had gone through during the battle seems a little onerous.

the column was rebuilt in 1899 but retains the original bust of Nelson which looks out over the harbour

I confess that despite having lived in the area for over 25 years I didn't know of it's existence until my recent visit.