Millennium Promenade - Long Curtain Bridge

On 14 September 1805, after leaving The George, Admiral Lord Nelson walked down Green Row (now Pembroke Road), and then he probably crossed Governors Green to the tunnel through King’s Bastion and over the wooden drawbridge leading to Spur Redoubt.

The original bridge has long since gone but the appearance of this historic area known as Long Curtain and King’s Bastion has probably not changed that much since 1805.

On 21 October 1805 the Battle of Trafalgar was fought between the British and combined French and Spanish fleets, at great cost to both sides. Nelson led the British fleet on board his flagship: HMS Victory. He was shot by a French marksman and later died of his wounds, shortly before a British victory was declared.

The new bridge pictured above was constructed in 2005 to mark the bicentenary of the Battle of Trafalgar.

Long Curtain and King’s Bastion form part of the old town’s fortifications, and have changed little since the 19th century.

The Nelson Trail

This trail takes you through parts of the old town of Portsmouth, highlighting places and buildings of interest relating to Vice Admiral Lord Nelson and Portsmouth around the time of the Battle of Trafalgar.

Four interpretation panels along the way provide more detailed information. A self-guided walk leaflet is also downloadable from www.visitportsmouth.co.uk.

Funding for Nelson’s Bridge, associated access improvements, relocation of the statue and The Nelson Trail was provided by The Onyx Environmental Trust via Portsmouth & South East Hampshire Partnership.

Go back to the Millennium Promenade page.