Arguably the most famous naval battle in British history, we delve into the events and personal accounts of the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.

From Vice-Admiral Horatio Nelson's strategic battle plan and famous flag signal, to the battle itself and Nelson's death, immerse yourself in the story of Trafalgar.

History of the Battle of Trafalgar

The background to the battle How did the confrontation between the British and Franco-Spanish fleets come about?

Trafalgar timeline What happened during the battle - and how did Nelson's plan play out?

Nelson's last words How did Nelson die - and what were his final words?

Delve deeper: Who shot Nelson's killer?

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Explore more

28 Oct 2015
Conserving a 200 year old flag from the Battle of Trafalgar
Nicola Yates, Senior Textile Conservator, talks about how this unique object was restored for the gallery
Spanish warships
The San José and the Santissima Trinidad were 18th century Spanish warships. Both ships were involved in sea battles involving Nelson.
Who shot Nelson’s killer?
Lord Nelson was killed at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. Signal Midshipman John Pollard took credit for killing the Frenchman who did it.
Nelson's funeral
Nelson was shot at the Battle of Trafalgar (1805). His body was brought back to England on board HMS Victory and he was buried at St Paul’s Cathedral.
Admiral Nelson the leader
Lord Nelson is best known for his victory at the Battle of the Trafalgar but he was already a national hero before then thanks to his naval tactics.
Nelson and Napoleon
The lives and careers of Horatio Nelson and Napoleon Bonaparte are inextricably linked, as two dominant leaders and adversaries. 
HMS Victory
HMS Victory was Lord Nelson's flagship in his victory at the Battle of Trafalgar on 21 October 1805. Discover more about the history of the famous ship
What were Nelson's last words?
Nelson was killed by a fatal gunshot wound at the Battle of Trafalgar on 21 October 1805. Read more about the circumstances of his death and the debate surrounding his final words.
Battle of Trafalgar timeline
How did Nelson secure a British victory against the Franco-Spanish fleet? Follow the stages of the battle to learn more
Battle of Trafalgar background
The Battle of Trafalgar took place on 21 October 1805. Find out what led up to the British attack on the Franco-Spanish fleet - and how Nelson laid the plans for victory.