The Portsmouth Ghost Walk

The Portsmouth Ghost Walk: An Intriguing Night Tour into History

If you’re curious about Portsmouth beyond its well-trodden naval museums and waterfront attractions, then the Portsmouth Ghost Walk might be just what you need. This guided tour takes you through the city’s shadowy, lesser-known corners, revealing stories of smugglers, pirates, and the mysterious fates of sailors from centuries past. It promises a mix of history, humor, and spine-tingling moments, all wrapped into a brisk 1.5-hour stroll.

What we love about this experience is its ability to blend entertaining storytelling with authentic historical tidbits. The lively guide, a key part of the fun, keeps the atmosphere engaging and fun, even when sharing dark tales. The tour’s focus on Portsmouth’s hidden underworld offers a fresh perspective on a familiar city, making it perfect for history buffs and ghost story lovers alike. Plus, the interactive elements and group participation add a dash of theatricality that enhances the experience.

A possible consideration is that the tour involves walking through narrow, possibly dark streets—not ideal if you prefer a more relaxed or accessible experience. Plus, the stories are suited for those aged 12 and up when accompanied by an adult, so it might not be best for very young children.

This ghost walk is a fantastic pick for travelers seeking a pop of excitement after dark, especially those interested in local legends, maritime history, and a bit of theatrical fun. It offers real value for its price, providing a memorable and unique way to see Portsmouth’s lesser-seen side.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Authentic dark stories about Portsmouth’s smugglers, pirates, and sailors.
• Engaging guide with lively narration and theatrical acting.
• Accessible and wheelchair friendly tour, suitable for most.
• Interactive and participatory, making the experience more immersive.
• Affordable price point for a guided 1.5-hour outing.
• Historical and spooky blend perfect for fans of ghost stories and local legends.

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect on the Portsmouth Ghost Walk

The tour kicks off at the iconic Square Tower, a historic site that sets a fitting tone for the evening. Here, you’ll meet your guide and get a quick briefing before stepping into Portsmouth’s shadowy streets. The Square Tower itself holds a certain gravitas, and standing there, you can almost hear the echoes of sailors and smugglers from centuries gone by.

Spice Island: A Dark Underworld of Smugglers and Pirates

Next, the tour heads into Spice Island, a neighborhood traditionally bustling with ale houses, chapels, and underground dealings. This area was notorious in the 1800s, especially during the wars when Portsmouth saw a surge in sailors disembarking, often seeking entertainment — and trouble. Your guide will share stories of rival gangs, smuggling operations, and the rough-and-tumble life of sailors—stories that might not make it into the usual tourist brochures.

According to one review, the guide, a performer named (name not provided), kept everyone entertained with his lively impersonations and humorous asides, as he played his part right until the very end. His ability to switch from storytelling to acting made the dark tales even more vivid and memorable.

The Underworld of 1813 Portsmouth

The tour’s setting during 1813, amidst war, adds historical weight to the tales. It was a time when Portsmouth’s streets were filled with ale houses, chapels, and shady establishments, where rival gangs vied for control of sailor trade. Stories of sailors who vanished or met grim fates are woven into the cobbled streets, adding a layer of haunting realism to the experience.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Final Stop: The Round Tower

The tour wraps up at the Round Tower, another historic landmark with its own stories. Standing here, you’re left with a sense of the lingering ghosts of Portsmouth’s past—literally and figuratively. The guide’s dramatic narration leaves a lasting impression, making this a fitting end to a journey through Portsmouth’s darker history.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Value and duration are key for this experience. At just over an hour and a half, the tour strikes a good balance between being thorough yet not overly lengthy, fitting comfortably into an evening outing. The price, approximately $20.20, offers a solid deal considering the quality of storytelling, interactive elements, and the memorable atmosphere created by the guide.

The live, English-speaking guide enhances the experience, with reviews highlighting the guide’s humor, knowledge, and theatrical flair that keep everyone engaged. The tour’s accessibility, including wheelchair access, broadens its appeal—making it suitable for a wider range of visitors.

What We Loved

• The stories bring Portsmouth’s dark past to life in an engaging way.
• The interactive elements encourage group participation, making it more than just a passive walk.
• The setting in historic streets and landmarks enhances the overall ambiance.
• The affordable cost provides excellent value for a themed, guided experience.

Potential Downsides

• The walking involves narrow, possibly uneven streets—not ideal for those with mobility issues.
• The spooky stories are suited for children 12 and older, so it may not be perfect for very young children or sensitive guests.
• While the tour is generally well-paced, some might find 75 minutes of storytelling a little intense if they prefer more relaxed sightseeing.

Practical Details: Planning Your Ghost Walk Experience

Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours, which makes it perfect for an evening activity or a quick addition to a day of sightseeing.

Price: $20.20 per person, offering good value considering the entertainment and storytelling involved.

Meeting Point: In front of the Square Tower, a central historic landmark that’s easy to find. The tour ends back at the same point, simplifying logistics.

Group Size & Interaction: The overall experience is designed to be interactive with group participation, adding a playful element to the storytelling.

Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for visitors with mobility needs.

Language: The entire experience is conducted in English, so non-English speakers may need additional arrangements.

Comparing to Similar Experiences

For those considering other Portsmouth activities, the Portsmouth Ghost Walk offers a distinctive blend of history and theatrics that sets it apart from more conventional sightseeing options. Its price point is competitive, and the focus on Portsmouth’s hidden, darker side provides a different perspective than traditional tours like the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard or Spinnaker Tower visits.

If you’re also interested in maritime history, the nearby museums or the Mary Rose Museum might appeal, but for a night of storytelling, ghost tales, and a sense of adventure, this ghost walk hits the sweet spot.

The Sum Up

The Portsmouth Ghost Walk is a great value, engaging tour perfect for travelers looking to add a spooky twist to their Portsmouth visit. Its blend of historical storytelling, theatrical flair, and immersive setting makes it a memorable experience, especially after dark.

The tour’s affordability and accessibility make it suitable for solo travelers, couples, or groups of friends eager for a fun, slightly eerie evening. While it’s not for those seeking a relaxed or fully accessible experience, it’s ideal for anyone interested in local legends, maritime myths, or simply wanting a different way to explore Portsmouth’s historic streets.

If you enjoy ghost stories, theatrical storytelling, or uncovering secret histories, this walk is sure to entertain and fascinate, leaving you with stories to tell long after the tour ends.

FAQ

How long does the Portsmouth Ghost Walk last?
The tour takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, making it a concise yet enriching experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins in front of the Square Tower and finishes back at the same location, simplifying planning.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but it’s recommended for ages 12 and up, especially with adult supervision.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is about $20.20 per person, which is good value for a guided, theatrical experience.

Is the tour accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, allowing more people to enjoy the experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are advisable, especially as the tour involves walking through narrow streets.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind to travelers with flexible plans.

You can check if your dates are available here: