In 1914 the world tumbled into the horror of war and Portsmouth sent soldiers and sailors to the battle fronts. Volunteers manned essential services and women filled the gaps left by the men. A cenotaph was erected to commemorate the men who never returned to Portsmouth and was unveiled on 19th October 1921.

The decision was taken by the Admiralty to transform the old Gunwharf into a training establishment for officers and men in torpedo warfare which resulted in the birth of the shore base HMS Vernon in 1923. This area of Portsmouth has now been turned into Gunwharf Quays.

In January 1928 HMS Victory was towed to her current position in Portsmouth Dockyard and was embedded in cement. She was then restored to the condition she would have been in, in 1812.

On 17th July 1928, King George V crowned the restoration by unveiling a plaque setting forth her glorious service for 175 years. HMS Victory remains commissioned, which makes her the oldest commissioned war ship.