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Nelson's Anchorage, Upper Rock Nature Reserve Travel Guide

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Explore Nelson's Anchorage in Gibraltar: Where naval history meets stunning coastal views and a colossal 100-ton gun.

Nelson's Anchorage marks the spot where HMS Victory was towed after the Battle of Trafalgar. It is believed that Admiral Nelson's body was brought ashore here. A massive 100-ton gun stands as a reminder of Gibraltar's strategic importance.

A brief summary to Nelson's Anchorage

Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Nelson's Anchorage.

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs and fewer crowds.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy while taking in the stunning views of the harbor.
  • Look for the historical plaques that provide insights into the site's significance.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Gibraltar Cruise Port or Casemates Square, head south along Queensway, then follow the coastal path along Rosia Road. Continue past the University of Gibraltar, and you'll find Nelson's Anchorage on your left. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles and should take around 30-40 minutes. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    From the city center, take Bus Route 3 towards Europa Point. Get off at the stop closest to the University of Gibraltar or the 100 Ton Gun. From there, it's a short walk to Nelson's Anchorage. The bus fare is approximately £1.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Gibraltar. A taxi from the Gibraltar International Airport to Nelson's Anchorage will cost approximately £20. From Casemates Square, expect to pay around £10-£15.

Discover more about Nelson's Anchorage

Nelson's Anchorage, located at the southwestern end of Gibraltar, is a site steeped in maritime history and offers stunning views of the coastline. This is the location where HMS Victory was brought for repairs after the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. Legend has it that Admiral Lord Nelson's body was brought ashore here, preserved in a barrel of alcohol, before being transported back to England for burial.The focal point of Nelson's Anchorage is the impressive 100-ton gun, a Victorian-era supergun that stands as a testament to British military engineering. Named after Baron Napier of Magdala, the battery was constructed between 1878 and 1884 to protect the entrances to the commercial harbor and the Royal Naval Dockyard in Rosia Bay. The gun, manufactured in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, could fire a round every four minutes and engage targets up to eight miles away. Although obsolete by 1906, the gun remains in its position, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.Visitors to Nelson's Anchorage can explore the historical plaques detailing naval engagements and Gibraltar's strategic importance. The site provides a serene escape with coastal scenery, making it ideal for leisurely walks and picnics.

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