The Keppel’s Head

This hostelry has stood as a landmark on the Hard in Portsmouth and has been familiar to generations. The original Keppel’s Head dates to the latter part of the 18th century. It was built, probably in 1779, on the site of a row of cottages which had been ruined by fire. This new building was also completely destroyed however by a fire in 1803 despite the best efforts of the naval, military and civil authorities who all pitched in to rescue it. No one was injured but a public subscription was raised with £400 presented to the well liked proprietor, Mr Wickenden, who had not been insured. When rebuilt it became a favourite haunt of Sub–Lieutenants from the Naval Educational Establishment in the Dockyard who affectionately called it the ‘Nut’. It was said they quizzed a waiter, William, for the answers to forthcoming exams for he infallibly gave them the correct answers. The hotel was named after Admiral Augustus Keppel who in 1779 was court-martialled for alleged cowardice in the presence of the enemy. The Admiral was acquitted with the charges being found ‘malicious and unproved’. The news was perceived in Portsmouth as a triumph, both of innocence over vice and a popular Admiral over an unpopular Ministry. Riots ensued with the Admiralty Gate being torn down, official residences attacked and bonfires blazing in Keppel’s honour. The rioters drank his health and publicans painted his head on their signs. The Keppel’s Head was again damaged by fire in 1879 and was completely burned out during the Blitz of March 1941. Interestingly, there is a well in the basement.