She was launched by Palmers Shipbuilding and Iron Company in 1895, served in home waters and was in service during the First World War.

[11] She took part in the 1896 British Naval Manoeuvres, attached to the Channel Fleet operation from Milford Haven.

[14] Lieutenant George Geoffrey Codrington was appointed in command in January 1902, and she paid off at Chatham on 31 July 1902,[15] following which she had her boilers retubed.

[16] She took part in the fleet review held at Spithead on 16 August 1902 for the coronation of King Edward VII.

[19] On 30 August 1912 the Admiralty directed all destroyers were to be grouped into classes designated by letters based on contract speed and appearance.

[20][21][22] By February 1913, Porcupine was not part of an active flotilla, but was attached as a tender to the torpedo school at Chatham, with a nucleus crew,[23] although she was in full commission by May 1913.