Alverbank History

Originally commissioned as a house in 1842 by J.W. Croker (one of the leading figures in Victorian-era politics), the venue has, over the years, played host to many well-known political figures including the Duke of Wellington and former Prime Minister, Sir Robert Peel, who used to catch the teatime train down from London on a Friday to ensure he arrived in time for dinner! The Alverbank has also hosted royalty; Queen Victoria’s second son Prince Alfred, Duke of Edinburgh, resided here whilst attending the Naval College next door at Bay House and, later, Prince Edward, Prince of Wales, found it the perfect environment in which to ‘escape’ the formalities of Osborne House, just across the Solent. Queen Victoria herself, also visited the Alverbank to see her son, and there are many references to the house in her diaries. 

The Alverbank was also home to the Great Robert Smith-Barry who was a pioneer in WW11 in aviation techniques. He invented the 'Gosport Tube' and found innovative ways to teach aviation which gave him worldwide recognition. You'll see a blue plaque dedicated to his memory outside of the hotel. " The Great Smith-Barry, the man who taught the world to fly"

The Alverbank House Hotel is a Grade 11* listed coastal events venue in Alverstoke, Hampshire, boasting spectacular views of the Solent and the Isle of Wight. 

We are very fortunate to be be close to some of the finest nautical attractions in British naval history, including Lord Nelson’s iconic HMS Victory, The Mary Rose museum & Historic Dockyard, The National Diving Museum & The Submarine Museum.