Gosport's Turk Town Trail

This guided walk traces the story of Ottoman sailors who arrived in Gosport in October 1850 aboard two naval ships on a diplomatic training mission. Beginning at St Luke's Church, Haslar Hospital, the trail explores their training, visits to the town, and cultural connections, including the Queen Victoria saluting event.

Along the route, you will learn about the crew, their care at Haslar Hospital, and lesser-known stories such as an interpreter’s escape. The walk also visits key locations including a viewing of Spithead, the initial burial site within the hospital grounds before the Zymotic Hospital was built, and the later exhumation and re interment at the Royal Naval Cemetery on Clayhall Road.

Using historical documents, we uncover details of their treatment, recorded names, and causes of death. At the cemetery, the tour reflects on Turkish Martyrs’ Day and shares new findings, including the burial of an Ottoman attaché from London and the missing Silver Salver.

The walk covers approximately 1.5 miles at a moderate pace and lasts around 2 hours.

Timings

Sunday 13 September:

1400

Location & directions

St Luke's Church, Haslar, Gosport, Hampshire, PO12 2FB

Directions:

Starts at St Luke's Church, Haslar Hospital on Haslar Road and ends in the Royal Naval Haslar Cemetery on Clayhall Road

Contact on day:

Bee Schmid

Telephone number:

+447411134219

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking required

Booking conditions:

Please book online via the booking website, if you experience any difficulties with the booking system, please contact us.

Booking email:

[email protected]

Booking website:

https://www.gosportheritage.co.uk/booking-2026/

Booking opens:

22 Aug 2026 09:30 AM

Booking closes:

11 Sep 2026 05:00 PM

Accessibility details

Walking 1.5 miles so please wear comfortable shoes and weather appropriate clothing. No refreshments available so bring your own drinks.

Additional information

Max number of people:

25

Estimated duration:

2 hour(s)

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