Old Portsmouth Travel Guide

Portsmouth
Old Portsmouth
The fascinating landmarks of the former medieval town still stand firm today, helping to piece together the history of this powerful maritime giant.

Crumbling defensive ramparts reveal many of the city’s most historic structures in the Old Portsmouth district. Facing the water, the surviving medieval buildings and intriguing museums provide a glimpse of the city’s rich seafaring history and traditions. On a visit to Old Portsmouth, relax near the water and spot some of the country’s most iconic ships and submarines.

Go for a leisurely walk with your family along the Millennium Promenade on the waterfront. At night, its elegant and traditional lanterns glow to recall the harbor’s historic blue radiance. Stop to enjoy fish and chips at one of the long-standing pubs that have become part of the fabric of Portsmouth.

Overlooking the sea is the imposing Round Tower that was built in the 15th century to defend against French attacks. Climb to its roof, which is always open, for stunning vistas stretching as far as the Isle of Wight. Walk south beside the old ramparts linking the landmark to the nearby Square Tower, which is now a popular wedding venue. Watch a play, movie or concert in this renovated culture hub.

Continue south to reach the Horatio Nelson Statue that depicts the British war hero, alongside an inscription of a prayer. Across the street, you’ll find the Royal Garrison Church, which dates back to the 1200s. Its roof was destroyed in World War II, but a lower gabled closing covers the nave. Inside, admire the colorful stained glass depicting scenes from that war and marvel at the Romanesque and gothic touches of the nearby Portsmouth Cathedral.

The district of Old Portsmouth is at the southern end of Portsmouth Harbour, a little west of the Portsmouth City Centre. Travel by train to the railway station in the heart of the port or get a bus to one of the many stops here. You can also go on a ferry journey from the marina to Gosport or the Isle of Wight.

Old Portsmouth brings back to life military battles, seafaring voyages and medieval customs.


Popular places to visit


Top hotels in Old Portsmouth

ibis Southampton Centre
ibis Southampton Centre
3 out of 5
9 West Quay Road, Southampton, England
The price is £49 per night from 18 Apr to 19 Apr
£49
per night
18 Apr - 19 Apr
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Southampton. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast and on-site parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the convenient parking ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,010 reviews)
"Ideal for cruise port"

Reviewed on 27 Mar 2024

ibis Southampton Centre
Leonardo Royal Southampton Grand Harbour
Leonardo Royal Southampton Grand Harbour
4 out of 5
West Quay Road, Southampton, England
The price is £80 per night from 8 Apr to 9 Apr
£80
per night
8 Apr - 9 Apr
Stay at this spa hotel in Southampton. Enjoy free WiFi, a full-service spa and breakfast. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in their reviews. ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,095 reviews)
"Great location and friendly staff"

Reviewed on 24 Mar 2024

Leonardo Royal Southampton Grand Harbour
Holiday Inn Express Southampton M27 Jct7, an IHG Hotel
Holiday Inn Express Southampton M27 Jct7, an IHG Hotel
3 out of 5
Botley Road, West End, Southampton, England
The price is £56 per night from 11 Apr to 12 Apr
£56
per night
11 Apr - 12 Apr
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Southampton. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,011 reviews)
"Decent size room. Good breakfast included. Kind reception staff."

Reviewed on 24 Mar 2024

Holiday Inn Express Southampton M27 Jct7, an IHG Hotel
Leonardo Hotel Southampton - Formerly Jurys Inn
Leonardo Hotel Southampton - Formerly Jurys Inn
4 out of 5
1 Charlotte Place, Southampton, England
The price is £65 per night from 28 Apr to 29 Apr
£65
per night
28 Apr - 29 Apr
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Southampton. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast and 24-hour room service. Our guests praise the breakfast and the restaurant ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,009 reviews)
"Staff were amazing with excellent service"

Reviewed on 18 Mar 2024

Leonardo Hotel Southampton - Formerly Jurys Inn
Holiday Inn Southampton, an IHG Hotel
Holiday Inn Southampton, an IHG Hotel
4 out of 5
Herbert Walker Avenue, Southampton, England
The price is £74 per night from 28 Apr to 29 Apr
£74
per night
28 Apr - 29 Apr
Stay at this family-friendly hotel in Southampton. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast and 24-hour room service. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,013 reviews)
"Friendly and helpful staff , I especially liked how you provided shower gel and shampoo and the room was clean and comfortable, we would of liked biscuits with our tea though ,"

Reviewed on 25 Mar 2024

Holiday Inn Southampton, an IHG Hotel
Moxy Southampton
Moxy Southampton
3 out of 5
Harbour Parade, Southampton, England
The price is £70 per night from 1 Apr to 2 Apr
£70
per night
1 Apr - 2 Apr
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Southampton. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the breakfast and the bar ...
9/10 Wonderful! (697 reviews)
"Great proximity to everything you need. Walkable and safe."

Reviewed on 5 Mar 2024

Moxy Southampton
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Other neighbourhoods around Old Portsmouth

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Portsmouth City Centre

4/5(67 area reviews)

Portsmouth City Centre is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Portsmouth Guildhall and New Theatre Royal while in the area.

Portsmouth City Centre
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Buckland

While Buckland may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Portsmouth International Port and Portsmouth Guildhall.

Buckland
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Cosham

4/5(110 area reviews)

Cosham is popular for its abundant dining options, and you can check out PlayZone Portsmouth, a top attraction in the neighbourhood.

Cosham

Old Portsmouth Travel Guide

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