Fortitude Cottage

Fortitude Cottage is a historic residence located in the heart of Old Portsmouth, situated in a picturesque area that offers stunning views of the harbour. The property's name is derived from a significant aspect of Portsmouth's naval history, specifically referencing the HMS Fortitude, a 78-gun third-rate ship of war that was launched in 1759 and played an important role in several key battles during the 18th century. The original cottage on this site was built sometime before the 16th century, likely as part of the larger expansion of Portsmouth Harbour during the Tudor period. As a result, the area surrounding Fortitude Cottage is rich in historical significance, boasting numerous architectural features that date back to the 16th and 17th centuries. However, due to the devastating effects of World War II, much of this historic fabric was lost or damaged beyond repair. The cottage that stood on this site before WWII was unfortunately destroyed during the conflict, leaving a vacant plot of land in its wake. Following the war, efforts were made to rebuild and restore many of Portsmouth's historic areas, with Fortitude Cottage ultimately being rebuilt in the style reminiscent of its original 16th-century counterpart.