History buffs stepped back in time when Portland Port threw open its gates for its annual heritage walking tours.
Guide Wes Parks led three separate parties on a wide-ranging route around the estate for Dorset Architectural Heritage Week.
He talked about the history of the port, its previous role as a naval base, the harbour breakwaters, important landmarks and key figures from the past
Stops included Prince Consort Walk on the Victorian breakwater and the first stone laid for the breakwaters by Prince Albert, and the Inner Pierhead Fort to view historic harbour defences.
Wes shone a spotlight on famous shipwrecks among the 1,000 vessels estimated to lie off the Dorset coast and the role of the port during the Second World War.
Earlier this year, the port welcomed a walking tour as part of Dorchester Walking Festival and arranged a tour of the former East Weare Battery for members of the Court Leet and Portland Town Council in August.
Bill Reeves, Portland Port chief executive, said: “We were pleased to host more of our very popular walking tours.
“The port, and Portland itself, is steeped in history. As a major local business and contributor to local economy, we are pleased to be able to hosts visits and make some of our facilities available to local groups and support the area where so many of our people and their families live as well as those of businesses based at the port.
“Our thanks go to Damory for supplying transport and East Dorset Heritage Trust for its help in organising the tours.”
Portland Port is a privately owned, commercial port with 24/7 security and restricted access.
However, it opens its gates for various community initiatives, including the walking tours and the island’s B-Side Festival once more this year.
The port is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.
Click here for more about Portland Port in the community.