Portsmouth Ghost Tour

For those fascinated by the darker, spookier side of history, the Portsmouth Ghost Tour offers an intriguing glimpse into the city’s haunted past. This one-hour guided walk, led by live actors, promises an evening filled with ghostly tales, eerie locations, and a touch of theatrical flair. Perfect for thrill-seekers and history buffs alike, it combines storytelling with a real sense of atmosphere, making it a memorable experience for many visitors.

What we love about this tour is its ability to blend live entertainment with historical intrigue, creating an engaging narrative that keeps you hooked from start to finish. The tour’s focus on local legends like the Duke of Buckingham murder or the story of Buster Crabb adds a layer of authenticity that’s hard to find elsewhere. Plus, the visit to iconic haunted spots such as The Square Tower and The Dolphin pub makes you feel like you’re walking through Portsmouth’s shadowy past.

One possible drawback is that the tour is only an hour long, so those expecting a deep dive into Portsmouth’s entire haunted history might find it a bit brief. However, the compact format ensures you get a lively, fast-paced experience without feeling overwhelmed. It’s also worth noting that the tour is not suitable for children under 12, so it’s best suited for older kids and adults who appreciate a good ghost story.

This ghost tour appeals most to those interested in ghost stories, local legends, and a bit of theatrical fun. It’s ideal for an evening activity after a day of sightseeing or as a spooky break during your Portsmouth visit.

Good To Know

• Authentic haunted locations like The Square Tower and Spice Island are included in the route.
• Live actors bring the tales of death, torture, and hauntings to life for a more immersive experience.
• The tour is affordable at $17 per person, offering good value for a theatrical ghost walk.
• It’s wheelchair accessible and suitable for most adults, but children under 12 may not enjoy it as much.
• The hour-long duration keeps the experience lively without dragging on.
• Tours operate in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience: What to Expect

Starting at the historic Spice Island Inn, the tour sets a cozy and atmospheric tone right from the beginning. As the guide, often a lively actor, welcomes you, you immediately feel the sense of stepping into another era. The inn’s centuries-old architecture provides a fitting backdrop for ghostly tales and legends. You’ll be encouraged to listen closely to stories that range from gruesome murders to encounters with spirits, all delivered with theatrical flair that keeps the atmosphere tense and lively.

From there, the tour meanders through some of Portsmouth’s most haunted spots. The Square Tower is a highlight — a fortified structure with a long history of military use, and reportedly haunted by spirits with a story to tell. Guides often share the strange tale of Buster Crabb, the famous diver and spy, whose story involves a mysterious encounter. You’ll also visit The Dolphin pub, a place with a reputation for ghostly sightings and unexplained noises, adding a lively element of local legend to the walk.

Throughout the tour, live actors perform short reenactments or dramatizations of the most chilling tales. These performances have been described as “terrifying” and “bringing ghostly stories to life,” making the experience more visceral than just listening to a storyteller. Many reviewers have appreciated the way these actors make the stories vivid, even if they’re aware it’s a theatrical presentation.

The length of just one hour means the stories are punchy and well-paced, without leaving you exhausted or bored. The guide’s delivery is often described as engaging and full of dark humor, which adds a fun contrast to the spooky themes. As the tour progresses, expect to hear about some of the area’s most gruesome tales, including the murder of the Duke of Buckingham and the story of John Felton, providing insight into Portsmouth’s darker history.

Practical Details and Value

Costing just $17 per person, the Portsmouth Ghost Tour offers impressive value for a lively hour of entertainment. The ticket includes not only access to haunted locations but also the experience of live actors who expertly weave storytelling with theatrical performance. This mix of history and entertainment is ideal for travelers wanting a fun, memorable activity without breaking the bank.

The tour is wheelchair accessible and conducted in English, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors. You’ll meet at the bottom of the staircase by the bar of the Spice Island Inn, which is both a historic and central location. The fact that tours run in all weather means you should dress accordingly, especially if rain or wind is forecast—bring an umbrella or a waterproof jacket just in case.

One reviewer mentioned that the one-hour duration is perfect for a quick, yet captivating experience. It fits well into an evening after exploring Portsmouth’s daytime attractions, like the historic dockyard or Spinnaker Tower. The short length invites a sense of urgency—your guide will keep the stories moving, ensuring you get a good taste of Portsmouth’s spooky side without feeling like the tour drags on.

While the tour doesn’t claim to be a deep dive into Portsmouth’s entire haunted history, it does focus on the most haunted spots and stories that really leave an impression. The inclusion of genuine local legends and ghostly encounters makes it feel more authentic and engaging.

Authenticity and Atmosphere

Many reviews highlight the atmospheric setting and the performance quality of the live actors. The guide often plays multiple roles, switching from historian to storyteller to actor, which keeps the energy high. Guests have pointed out the “terrifying accounts” and “creepy reenactments,” which contribute to a fun, spooky vibe.

The tour’s focus on places like The Square Tower, Spice Island, and The Dolphin pub makes you feel like you’re walking through a haunted map of Portsmouth. Standing amidst centuries-old buildings, hearing about ghostly sightings and murders adds an immersive layer that’s hard to replicate on your own.

The stories themselves are a mix of well-known legends and lesser-known tales, giving a rounded sense of Portsmouth’s darker corners. For example, the story of Buster Crabb adds a layer of intrigue for those interested in local espionage and maritime legends. The ghostly accounts are often described as “chilling,” with some guests reporting a real sense of presence and unease, especially when the guide emphasizes the eerie history of specific sites.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This ghost tour is best suited for adults and older teens who enjoy storytelling, history, and a good scare. It’s perfect for those looking for an evening activity that’s fun and slightly spooky but not overly frightening. The theatrical element makes it especially appealing for travelers seeking a lively, entertaining experience rather than a serious haunted investigation.

Families with children under 12 may want to consider whether their kids enjoy ghost stories or theatrical performances, as this tour isn’t designed for young children. The focus on death, torture, and hauntings might be too intense for sensitive younger audiences.

For history enthusiasts, the stories are rooted in local legends and real events, offering a glimpse into Portsmouth’s shadowy past. And for those who love a theatrical performance, the live actors add a playful yet chilling dimension.

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Final Thoughts

The Portsmouth Ghost Tour offers an engaging, theatrical introduction to the city’s haunted spots and ghostly legends. With a modest price point and a lively, hour-long format, it’s excellent value for anyone wanting a spooky, fun experience after a day of sightseeing. The combination of live actors, atmospheric locations, and chilling stories creates a memorable adventure that balances entertainment with a touch of genuine history.

While it might not satisfy those looking for an in-depth ghost-hunting expedition or a long, immersive experience, it’s ideal for a quick, entertaining, and atmospheric taste of Portsmouth’s darker heritage. Whether you’re into ghost stories or just looking for a fun night out, this tour is likely to leave a lasting impression.

FAQs

Is the Portsmouth Ghost Tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 12 due to the nature of the stories and themes involving death and torture.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, providing a quick yet immersive ghostly experience.

Where does the tour start?
You meet at the bottom of the staircase by the bar at the historic Spice Island Inn, a central Portsmouth location.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible for most visitors.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
Yes, the tour takes place in all weather conditions, so be sure to dress for the weather.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Your ticket grants access to haunted spots like The Dolphin pub, The Square Tower, Spice Island, and includes live actors and terrifying tales.

Is it a guided tour?
Yes, you’ll be accompanied by a live tour guide who is also a performer and storyteller.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English.

How much does it cost?
The tour costs $17 per person, offering good value for a fun, theatrical experience.

To sum it up, the Portsmouth Ghost Tour is a lively, theatrical way to explore some of the city’s most haunted spots. It’s best suited for those who enjoy ghost stories, historical legends, and a bit of theatrical fun — all wrapped up in a compact, affordable package. If you’re after a spooky evening with a playful edge, this tour will deliver a memorable experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: