09. Gosport's Turk Town Trail

Discover their journey from naval training to care at Haslar Hospital, hear rarely told stories of local encounters, explore historical documents, and visit their final resting place.

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Using historical documents, we uncover details of their treatment, recorded names, and causes of death.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.

Booking OPENS on 22 Aug at 0930

The walk covers approximately 1.5 miles at a moderate pace and lasts around 2 hours. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and weather appropriate clothing. No refreshments available so bring your own drinks.

Advance Registration required: Limited spaces on each tour. You may book up to 4 tickets per booking.

To complete your registration, you will need your name, contact telephone number, email, post code

Please complete registration within 10:00 minutes. After this, the reservation we're holding will be released to others.

Accessibility: For full accessibility options and facilities available, please go to 09. Gosport's Turk Town Trail - Gosport Heritage Open Days