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 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

Things to do


Top hotels in Old Portsmouth

Leonardo Hotel Southampton
Leonardo Hotel Southampton
4 out of 5
1 Charlotte Place, Southampton, England
The price is P4,064 per night from Jul 27 to Jul 28
P4,064
P4,877 total
Jul 27 - Jul 28
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! (1,163 reviews)
"I love the location"

Reviewed on Jun 28, 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 P2,750 per night from Jul 27 to Jul 28
P2,750
P3,300 total
Jul 27 - Jul 28
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 ...
7.6/10 Good! (1,002 reviews)
Excellent Hotel with Last Minute Bookings
"We arrived in Southampton not expecting to stay the night but, after realising we did, walked around hostels but all were no vacancy. This hotel was available and affordable for a last minute decision. Furthermore, we arrived at the hotel 10 minutes after booking online and, a very friendly receptionist ..."

Reviewed on Jun 25, 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 P3,675 per night from Jul 13 to Jul 14
P3,675
P4,410 total
Jul 13 - Jul 14
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! (1,078 reviews)
"The property is great clean nice staff bathrooms need upgrading although only there one night so ok . Breakfast included everything else was great just needs upgrade in certain areas mostly bathrooms"

Reviewed on Jun 29, 2025

Holiday Inn Express Southampton M27 Jct7 by IHG
Botleigh Grange Hotel & Spa
Botleigh Grange Hotel & Spa
3.5 out of 5
Grange Road, Botleigh Grange Hotel, Southampton, England
The price is P4,548 per night from Jul 20 to Jul 21
P4,548
P5,457 total
Jul 20 - Jul 21
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! (278 reviews)
"They say first impressions count and they so do. The receptionist Katie was welcoming, happy, professional and very helpful with all my questions. The dining room and bar staff all good. The cleaners never get mentioned so here goes, the standard of cleaning throughout the hotel is excellent they ..."

Reviewed on Jun 25, 2025

Botleigh Grange Hotel & Spa
Leonardo Royal Southampton Grand Harbour
Leonardo Royal Southampton Grand Harbour
4 out of 5
West Quay Road, Southampton, England
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is P5,802 per night from Jul 13 to Jul 14
P5,802
P6,963 total
Jul 13 - Jul 14
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! (1,533 reviews)
"Nice and convenient area"

Reviewed on Jun 30, 2025

Leonardo Royal Southampton Grand Harbour
New Place
New Place
4 out of 5
Shirrell Heath, Southampton, England
The price is P3,133 per night from Jul 6 to Jul 7
P3,133
P3,760 total
Jul 6 - Jul 7
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Southampton. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Our guests praise the breakfast and the ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,004 reviews)
"Great one night stay on the way to Southampton prior to a cruise. This Place has the Wow factor in spades. The main building houses a comfortable bar and delightful multi roomed restaurant in an elegant 18th centuary manor house painstakinly moved brick by brick to it's current location."

Reviewed on Jun 26, 2025

New Place
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

St. John\'s Cathedral

Portsmouth City Centre

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
Charles Dickens Birthplace

Buckland

Though Buckland might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Portsmouth International Port and Portsmouth Guildhall.

Buckland
Royal Marines Museum which includes heritage elements

Southsea

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

Southsea
From the top of Portsdown hill you can see Portsmouth and the Spinnaker Tower. Beyond the Solent separates the Isle of Wight from the British mainland.

Cosham

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

Cosham

Old Portsmouth