HMS Mercury

HMS Mercury was a naval training establishment in Petersfield focused on communications instruction for Royal Navy personnel. The site contained multiple facilities at Leydene House with classrooms, operational training areas, and specialized radio and signal equipment for hands-on learning.

The Royal Navy established the base in 1941 to meet the growing need for trained communications personnel during World War II. It became a key training hub for radio operators and signal specialists and remained active for decades after the war ended.

The base shaped generations of naval communicators who carried their training throughout the Royal Navy and maintained strong bonds with fellow graduates. These professionals formed a tight-knit community that influenced naval communications practices across the service.

The training center was equipped with advanced radio technology, morse code stations, and signal processing units for hands-on instruction. The site is no longer active, but visitors can see various historical equipment and the remains of the training facilities.

Three different depot ships supported the establishment during its operational years, beginning with MB 3520 in 1941. These vessels were essential to the day-to-day operations and training activities at the site.

GPS coordinates: 50.96720,-1.03400

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:46