Standing on a peninsula overlooking the Solent, ‘Royal Haslar’ is a prestigious and historic site that over three centuries from 1753 was the first Naval Hospital that provided a proud and continuous service of care to the sick and injured of the Navy and Army returning from 18th and 19th Century areas of conflict and battle. Throughout the 20th Century Haslar served those injured in both World Wars and many campaigns and conflicts, whilst in later years from 1948 caring for the people of Gosport and the surrounding area and over the centuries Haslar’s gates were never shut to friend, or foe.
Some of the historic London hospitals have earlier foundations, but Haslar’s story of British military and clinical history is unique. The 8,000 – 12,000 bodies which lie buried in the Paddock and grounds bear testimony to Britain’s global reach since the 1750’s.
Haslar as a hospital and the clinicians and staff made considerable contribution to medical advances over the centuries covering medicine, science and geographic exploration with many famous men from Haslar being active in all aspects of research.
The Haslar Heritage Group was founded in 2001 to promote the hospital’s 250th anniversary in 2003 the highlight of which was the recording of the BBC’s ‘Antiques Road show’. The group is now very active in promoting Haslar’s rich history, through publications, talks and lectures. The group also co-operates with the production of historical documentaries and in answering the many global enquiries regarding Haslar’s history.
The groups aim in working with the new owner of Haslar is the formation of a ‘Visitor’s centre’ in order to present Haslar’s history and that of the Royal Naval Medical and Dental Branches, including the Queen Alexandra’s Royal Naval Nursing Service and the Voluntary Aid Detachment.
We hope that whatever your interest that your visit to this site is an enjoyable one.
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