Old Portsmouth

Portsmouth

Old Portsmouth
Old Portsmouth
Old Portsmouth
Old 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 harbour’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 colourful 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

Things to do


Top hotels in Old Portsmouth

Meon Valley Hotel, Golf & Country Club

Meon Valley Hotel, Golf & Country Club

4 out of 5
Sandy Lane, Shedfield, Southampton, England
The price is €72 per night from 17 Aug to 18 Aug
€72
17 Aug - 18 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this spa hotel in Southampton. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the clean rooms and the overall value ...
6.8/10 (1,004 reviews)
"The staff are really friendly. The rooms are nice and the surroundings very nice. There is a bar and restaurant. We sat out drinking beer on the patio, we used the golf driving range for a small fee. There is a swimming pool and gym on site. We didnt uae these, there is a £5 fee per use of these ..."

Reviewed on 12 Aug 2025

Meon Valley Hotel, Golf & Country Club
Leonardo Hotel Southampton

Leonardo Hotel Southampton

4 out of 5
1 Charlotte Place, Southampton, England
The price is €84 per night from 17 Aug to 18 Aug
€84
17 Aug - 18 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star eco-certified hotel in Southampton. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and 24-hour room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,192 reviews)
"We were only there for a night in order to be close to the boat. It certainly was adequate for that. There were shops and restaurants nearby, which was great. Security stole. Davidson I can’t unpack Metamucil and suppositories and a shelf that works on boats and I know I need like black pants."

Reviewed on 29 Jul 2025

Leonardo Hotel Southampton
ibis budget Southampton Centre

ibis budget Southampton Centre

2.5 out of 5
West Quay Road, Western Esplanade, Southampton, England
The price is €54 per night from 17 Aug to 18 Aug
€54
17 Aug - 18 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this hotel in Southampton. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
7.4/10 Good! (1,017 reviews)
"Great location."

Reviewed on 13 Aug 2025

ibis budget Southampton Centre
Holiday Inn Express Southampton M27 Jct7 by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Southampton M27 Jct7 by IHG

3 out of 5
Botley Road, West End, Southampton, England
Fully refundable
The price is €81 per night from 25 Aug to 26 Aug
€81
25 Aug - 26 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star eco-certified hotel in Southampton. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,158 reviews)
Great little stay before a cruise
"Restaurant has a reasonable range of food for dinner and a great breakfast. Room is a little tired but functional. Staff were happy to provide extra tea and milk Bed was large and comfy though we both struggled with the pillows. Aircon worked well and it was nice to be able to open a window. Plenty ..."

Reviewed on 11 Aug 2025

Holiday Inn Express Southampton M27 Jct7 by IHG
Leonardo Royal Southampton Grand Harbour

Leonardo Royal Southampton Grand Harbour

4 out of 5
West Quay Road, Southampton, England
The price is €120 per night from 1 Sept to 2 Sept
€120
1 Sept - 2 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this spa hotel in Southampton. Enjoy free WiFi, a full-service spa, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the breakfast and the restaurant ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,579 reviews)
Holiday
"Love hotel amazing good amazing staff"

Reviewed on 10 Aug 2025

Leonardo Royal Southampton Grand Harbour
Botleigh Grange Hotel & Spa

Botleigh Grange Hotel & Spa

3.5 out of 5
Grange Road, Botleigh Grange Hotel, Southampton, England
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is €87 per night from 25 Aug to 26 Aug
€87
25 Aug - 26 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star spa hotel in Southampton. Enjoy free parking, a full-service spa, and 2 bars/lounges. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (312 reviews)
Overnight getaway
"The food was delicious. The room was small but clean and comfortable. The Spa was very relaxing - needs a bit of updating but had a great time."

Reviewed on 10 Aug 2025

Botleigh Grange Hotel & Spa
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
Royal Marines Museum featuring heritage elements

Southsea

Southsea is a destination visitors seek out for its beaches, lively bars and seaside views. You might want to check out attractions like Fratton Park or Kings Theatre while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

Southsea
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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

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