Esteemed visitors

Portsmouth is often overshadowed by the reputation of more elegant past watering holes. During the Victorian period however it was the scene of distinguished social activity. Visitors were well served by the large, some ancient, hotels situated in the High Street. For example one week in 1839, The George, hosted Prince Edward of Saxe Weimar, Lord Adlophus Fitzclarence, the Earl of Dundonald, Viscount Exmouth, Viscount Ingestrie, Lord Henry Clinton, Lord and Lady Francis Edgerton and many other influential guests. In addition, a few weeks later a party of European princes arrived directly from Buckingham Palace to stay at the same hostelry.