Visitors took a trip into the past at an open day on Portland.

Portland Port opened up the mid-nineteenth century Old Engine Shed on its premises so visitors had a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Opened as part of the Spirit of Portland Festival, this was also an opportunity for people to find out more about the port and its operations.

The Grade II Listed building comprises of three locomotive sheds built to serve the Admiralty Incline Railway, transporting stone from the Admiralty Quarries to Portland Harbour for the construction of the breakwaters.

There were informative display boards, along with a range of artefacts inside and out, from 'dinosaur footprints', an 1875 canon, the Harbour Master's RIB, a large ship fender, anchors and the new cruise ship gangway. Representatives from companies based at the port were there to talk about what they do including Manor Marine, Manor Renewable Energy, Intermarine, and Portland Bunkers UK, which uses the underground tunnels that date back to when the port was a naval base to store fuel in the hillside.

Sandie Wilson of Portland Harbour Authority said: “It all came together on the day; the weather was great, and we were really pleased that so many people came to the event."

Dorset and East Devon FLAG, which delivers community-led development in the area’s fisheries, aquaculture and seafood sectors, in conjunction with Dorset Coast Forum showcased its latest instalment of Dorset Coastal Stories. This is a short film about aquaculture in Dorset, one of four films now available at dorsetecoast.com. Some of the stars from the film were present with displays about their operations in the port and harbour including Dorset Seaweed Company and Dorset Cleaner Fish.

The Friends of the Grove Telephone Box served tea and cake to visitors on the day raising £264.

Terry Shakespeare from the group said: “We would like to thank everyone for their generosity with the proceeds contributing towards the Grove telephone box."

Mrs Shakespeare was also instrumental in opening the neighbouring 19th Century Grade II* Listed St Peter’s Church for the afternoon which also attracted a considerable amount of interest as this is usually closed to the public.

The Spirit of Portland Festival is a week-long series of events held every year as a celebration of Portland’s unique heritage, culture and natural environment. Portland Community Partnership (PCP) now invites interest for next year’s Spirit of Portland which will be from July 25-August 9.

Andy Matthews from the PCP said: “Portland is a wonderful place and has so much to offer."