Central Gateway And Railings To North East Of Royal Naval Hospital, Haslar

The central gateway and railings to the northeast of the Royal Naval Hospital, Haslar, were built between 1745 and 1762. This structure features red brick and ashlar, along with wrought- and cast-iron elements. It consists of a pair of heavy brick piers topped with pediment caps and plinths. The gates have a raised centerpiece adorned with a wrought-iron fleur-de-lys finial and a cast, gilded lion's head. The spear-headed railings are supported by stanchions with finials and lions, connecting to side pedestrian archways made of coped brick sections. A portion of the railing has been removed on the left side to allow for vehicular access. Historically, this gateway served as the main ceremonial entrance along the major axis of the hospital, which was the first large facility built by the navy primarily for convalescent seamen. The formal layout of the hospital is highlighted by this entrance, which is a significant feature within this impressive and largely intact complex, flanked by sections of original wall and mid-19th century store buildings.