HMS Holland 1

HMS Holland 1 is a submarine measuring about 19 meters in length that represents the first submarine design commissioned by the Royal Navy in 1901. The vessel features tight compartments with operating controls and an original battery configuration that shows how these early underwater boats functioned.

The submarine sank in 1913 near Eddystone Lighthouse during a final voyage to a scrapyard and remained on the seabed for decades. It was recovered in 1982 and brought back to the surface after years underwater.

The vessel shows how the Royal Navy equipped compact fighting ships in the early 20th century through its preserved gun installations and torpedo tubes. You can observe how attacks from the sea were meant to be carried out in that era.

The submarine is housed in a climate-controlled building where it can be explored, though the tight spaces may present a physical challenge. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for stairs, as navigation through an actual submarine is confined.

The lead batteries from this boat, which lay in water for nearly 70 years, still work after being cleaned and recharged. This surprising discovery revealed how robust this early battery technology truly was.

Location: Gosport

Inception: January 1, 1902

Length: 19.46 m

Website: https://nmrn.org.uk/visit-us/submarine-museum/hms-holland-1

GPS coordinates: 50.78800,-1.12003

Latest update: December 20, 2025 15:02