Portchester Castle

Portchester Castle
Portchester Castle
Portchester Castle
Portchester Castle
Portchester Castle


Inspect the fascinating exhibits and climb the spiral staircase to the roof for commanding views of the stunning coastline and the quaint village of Portchester.

The Portchester Castle is made up of the remains of a structure first built in the 3rd century. Within the castle is an exhibition tracing the history of the site and its surrounding village. Go on an audio tour of the castle for a comprehensive understanding of its architectural features and its place in England’s history.

Stroll along the various paths that meander around and through the castle and its grounds. Gaze up at the imposing walls that still stand today after many centuries. The views of the castle moat and the coastline are breathtaking.

Enter the castle and examine the exhibits that cover its history. Learn how it began as a Roman fort, before the Normans constructed much of the impressive structure we see today. In the 18th century, it served as a prison for a variety of captives from overseas.

Attend some of the temporary displays and events that take place in the castle. These have included such activities as open-air theater performances and storytelling sessions for children. Watch your kids pick up swords and shields, as they complete the fairytale trail.

Spread a blanket on the grassy grounds near the castle and enjoy a picnic with your family. The castle provides an exceptional historical backdrop for your meal.

There are discounts on entry tickets for kids and families. Opening times vary throughout the year, but the site generally operates daily from morning to afternoon in high season. In less busy times, it is open only on weekends.

The Portchester Castle is in its namesake area in the northwestern part of Portsmouth. Arrive at the Portchester railway station and walk south for 20 minutes to get to the castle. While here, check out some of the neighboring attractions, including the Portchester Community Centre, Castle Shore Park and the Trafalgar Wharf.

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Things to do near Portchester Castle

Portchester Castle offers a range of activities for visitors, including scenic ferry rides and nearby golf courses. To enhance your experience, consider joining a guided tour, which provides fascinating insights into the castle's rich history. Whether you're exploring the stunning surroundings or delving into the past, Portchester Castle promises an enjoyable day out.

Shopping

The nearest shopping destination is Gunwharf Quays, located 1.9km from Portchester Castle, offering a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, WestQuay Shopping Centre and House of Chilli are both 8.7km away, providing more diverse shopping experiences.

Recreation

At Fratton Park, immerse yourself in the electrifying atmosphere of live sports, just a short distance from Portchester Castle. Alternatively, the Pyramids Centre Portsmouth offers family-friendly aquatic activities, perfect for relaxation and fun. For a serene outdoor experience, enjoy a round of golf at Lee-on-the-Solent Golf Club.

Adventure

Embark on the Isle of Wight Coastal Footpath, an 8-mile hiking trail with breathtaking views. For water sports enthusiasts, Nomad Sailing, located 1.9km away, offers thrilling sailing experiences. Additionally, indulge in excitement at Ambush Paintball, 4.3km from Portchester, for a memorable adventure day.

Nightlife

In Portchester Castle, the Kings Theatre offers a delightful mix of culture and romance just 2.5km away, while the New Theatre Royal, located 1.9km away, presents captivating performances. For family fun, PlayZone Portsmouth, only 1.2km away, guarantees an adventurous arcade experience.

Find the best attractions near Portchester Castle

Portchester Castle offers a captivating blend of history and outdoor experiences, making it a must-visit for tourists. Explore the medieval fortress, a remarkable royal castle, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Nearby attractions include beautiful beaches and military museums, ensuring there's something for everyone. Whether you're wandering through the castle grounds or enjoying the scenic coastline, Portchester provides a delightful escape for all visitors.

  • HMS Victory: Explore the majestic HMS Victory, the iconic flagship of Lord Nelson, located just 1.9km from Portchester Castle. This maritime museum offers a rich cultural experience, allowing you to delve into Britain's naval history through interactive exhibits and guided tours.
  • Portsmouth Guildhall: A stunning event and conference venue, Portsmouth Guildhall is also situated 1.9km away. Its impressive architecture and vibrant atmosphere make it a hub for business and cultural events, showcasing the city's dynamic community.
  • University of Portsmouth: This historic university, located 1.9km from Portchester Castle, combines modern education with a rich cultural heritage. Stroll through its picturesque campus and discover fascinating events that celebrate learning and creativity.

Best time to go to Portchester Castle

The best time to visit Portchester Castle can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Portchester Castle falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Portchester Castle falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January42.3°F (5.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March45.1°F (7.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
April48.6°F (9.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May53.8°F (12.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
June59.4°F (15.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July63.0°F (17.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August62.8°F (17.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September59.9°F (15.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November49.1°F (9.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Portchester Castle

To save money on your visit to Portchester Castle, consider travelling during the off-peak months from January to March when accommodation prices are lower. Aim to book your stay on a Monday, as Saturday tends to be the priciest. Use Expedia to refine your search for hotels and take advantage of package deals that bundle flights and activities for added savings. For transport, opt for walking or local buses to explore the area without breaking the bank, and look out for free activities around the castle to enhance your experience.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Portchester Castle are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Portchester Castle is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Portchester Castle is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Portchester Castle with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.