Portsmouth’s best guided tours deliver no-nonsense history and memorable sights without tourist traps. Walking tours cover the essential Historic Dockyard and Old Portsmouth neighborhoods in 2-3 hours, while evening ghost tours bring chilling naval tales to life. I especially enjoy the Isle of Wight day trips – they’re well-organized and include both scenic coastal views and charming village stops. The most worthwhile tours feature local guides who know their stuff and keep groups small. Let’s explore our favorite Portsmouth tour experiences.
Key Points
- Guided walking tours offer engaging explorations of Portsmouth’s history and landmarks, with high ratings for informative and entertaining experiences.
- Ghost walk tours provide a thrilling 1.5-hour experience focusing on the city’s haunted past, with key stops at eerie landmarks.
- Historical walking tours cover 900 years of local history, catering to various accessibility needs and group sizes.
- Themed tours, such as the Portsmouth of the Past tour, offer in-depth insights into the city’s naval significance.
- Island tours provide scenic ferry crossings to the Isle of Wight, showcasing picturesque villages and natural attractions.
Guided Walking Tour of Portsmouth
The Guided Walking Tour of Portsmouth provides visitors with an immersive and engaging exploration of the city’s rich history and landmarks. This personalized small-group tour allows for tailored content based on participants’ interests and ages, making it accessible for all.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour takes guests through the city’s must-see attractions, including the iconic Portsmouth Cathedral, the historic HMS Warrior 1860, and the vibrant Gunwharf Quays.
Conveniently located at The Hard Interchange, the tour is easily accessible by public transport and has nearby car parking options.
With an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on over 100 reviews, the tour is highly recommended by travelers for its informative and entertaining nature. Participants praise the guides’ engaging storytelling and the opportunity to discover the city’s hidden gems.
With a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Guided Walking Tour of Portsmouth is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the area.
Read our full review: Guided Walking Tour of Portsmouth Review
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Portsmouth: Ghost Walk Tour With a Guide
Haunting tales and eerie mysteries await those who embark on the Portsmouth: Ghost Walk Tour With a Guide. This captivating 1.5-hour walking tour invites visitors to uncover the city’s dark past, guided by a knowledgeable local who brings the haunted history to life.
Explore the historic Old Portsmouth district, where ghostly sightings and paranormal occurrences are said to be commonplace. Hear chilling accounts of restless spirits, ominous presences, and supernatural phenomena that have plagued the area for centuries.
The tour covers key landmarks like the Old Customs House, the Still and West Pub, and the Historic Dockyard, each with its own ghostly legends and unsettling stories.
With a 4.9 out of 5 rating from 24 reviews, this immersive experience offers a unique and spooky way to explore Portsmouth’s haunted heritage. Priced at $12.48 per person, the Portsmouth: Ghost Walk Tour With a Guide is a must-do for anyone seeking a thrilling and spine-tingling adventure in this historic coastal city.
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Old Portsmouth Historical Walking Tour – an Infernal Den of Diabolical Demons
Explore the dark and captivating history of Old Portsmouth through the Old Portsmouth Historical Walking Tour. Led by a local historian passionate about the city’s past, this 45-minute tour takes visitors on a journey through 900 years of villains and colorful characters.
Recommended by 100% of travelers, the tour boasts a perfect 5.0 rating from 45 reviews. Guests will visit landmarks like the medieval Round Tower while learning about Portsmouth’s diabolical history.
The tour starts at the Tesco Express on St Georges Road, with the guide meeting participants at the nearby Landport Gate. The experience ends at The Bridge Tavern in Old Portsmouth.
Wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly, the tour welcomes a maximum of 15 travelers. Travelers praise the guides’ enthusiasm, knowledge, and humor, as well as the engaging storytelling and informative content.
Priced from $15.87 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.
Read our full review: Old Portsmouth Historical Walking Tour – an Infernal Den of Diabolical Demons Review
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Portsmouth: Portsmouth of the Past Walking Tour
Discover over 2000 years of Portsmouth’s captivating history on the Portsmouth of the Past Walking Tour. This 1.5-hour guided exploration offers an engaging look into the city’s naval significance and intriguing past.
Led by a knowledgeable guide with over 40 years of local experience, you’ll hear quirky stories and fascinating facts that bring the city’s rich heritage to life.
The tour includes entrance to the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and Spinnaker Tower, providing a well-rounded experience. Children will receive an activity book with age-appropriate content to enhance their learning.
Reviewers praise the guide’s friendliness and engaging storytelling, highlighting the tour’s excellent value for money.
Flexibility is key, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later. Comfortable shoes are recommended, and in inclement weather, the organizer can suggest indoor alternatives.
With a 4.9/5 overall rating, this walking tour is an excellent way to uncover the captivating history of Portsmouth.
Read our full review: Portsmouth: Portsmouth of the Past Walking Tour Review
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Isle of Wight – Day Tour From Portsmouth Including Ferry Crossing
The Isle of Wight – Day Tour From Portsmouth Including Ferry Crossing offers travelers a chance to venture beyond the city limits and discover the scenic charms of this island destination.
Operated by Discovery Tours, this highly-rated tour whisks visitors across the Solent via the Wightlink Ferry, providing easy access to the Isle of Wight’s natural wonders.
Highlights include a visit to Alum Bay Beach and the iconic Needles, as well as a scenic drive through the island’s picturesque countryside. Guests can also enjoy a lunch stop in the charming village of Godshill and an optional speed boat ride or chair lift to the beach.
With an air-conditioned coach, friendly and knowledgeable guides, and a maximum of 53 travelers, this tour offers an immersive and comfortable experience.
Whether you’re seeking stunning landscapes, quaint villages, or unique activities, the Isle of Wight – Day Tour From Portsmouth is a must-consider for your Portsmouth itinerary.
Read our full review: Isle of Wight – Day Tour From Portsmouth Including Ferry Crossing Review
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Portsmouth: Old Portsmouth Historical Walking Tour
Stepping away from the scenic Isle of Wight, the Portsmouth: Old Portsmouth Historical Walking Tour offers visitors an immersive glimpse into the city’s rich past.
Covering 1.5 miles over 90 minutes, this guided tour takes participants through over 900 years of history, humor, and horror in Old Portsmouth.
Led by local history teacher Samuel, a native of the city, the tour delves into the area’s diabolical past and intriguing characters, from the truth about Admiral Nelson to the connections between coffee, espionage, and local rogues.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for adults and teenagers, with a gentle pace that allows for questions.
Positively reviewed for its engaging storytelling and interesting facts, the tour is a recommended experience for families, couples, and solo travelers.
With a flexible booking policy and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Portsmouth: Old Portsmouth Historical Walking Tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to uncover the captivating history of this coastal city.
Read our full review: Portsmouth: Old Portsmouth Historical Walking Tour Review
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Public | City of Portsmouth Historic Neighborhoods Tour | 1.5-2hr
Nestled within the historic heart of Portsmouth, the Public |offers cyclists a captivating journey through the city’s most iconic neighborhoods. This 1.5-2 hour small group tour, operated by PortCity Bike Tours, provides an immersive experience, allowing participants to explore the charming streets and uncover the rich heritage of this New England gem.
The tour includes the use of a bicycle and helmet, as well as knowledgeable guides who lead the way through the city’s historic district. With a maximum of 8 travelers, the tour ensures a personalized and intimate experience. Although the tour is not wheelchair accessible, it is near public transportation and infant seats are available.
At $65 per person, the tour offers exceptional value, with tips and gratuity included. Based on 7 reviews, the tour has an impressive 4.4 out of 5 rating, with feedback praising the engaging guides and the opportunity to discover Portsmouth’s captivating neighborhoods.
Read our full review: Public | City of Portsmouth Historic Neighborhoods Tour | 1.5-2hr Review
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From Portsmouth: Isle of Wight Day Tour by Bus and Ferry
Departing from the historic city of Portsmouth, the Isle of Wight Day Tour by Bus and Ferry offers visitors a captivating excursion to the picturesque island just a short journey away.
Priced from Kč2,358 per person, this 9-hour tour allows travelers to explore the island’s charming villages, stunning coastlines, and natural wonders.
The highlights include a scenic drive to the medieval village of Godshill, known for its thatched cottages, and a visit to the iconic Alum Bay, famous for its multicolored sand cliffs and the Needles.
Participants can choose to take a chairlift down to the beach or opt for a more strenuous walk down the steps.
With comfortable air-conditioned coaches, onboard toilets, and a return Wightlink Ferry ticket included, the tour provides a hassle-free experience.
While some travelers have suggested more photo opportunities, the overall experience is highly rated, with praise for the knowledgeable and friendly guides.
Read our full review: From Portsmouth: Isle of Wight Day Tour by Bus and Ferry Review
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Explore the Area | Private & Custom Group Bike Tours | 2-2.5 Hrs.
Visitors can embark on a private and customizable bicycle tour in Portsmouth, New England, lasting 2-2.5 hours. The tour explores Prescott Park, Great Island Common, and Fort Stark State Historic Site, offering a unique perspective of the city.
An expert guide leads the way, providing insight into the area’s history and attractions. The tour includes a bicycle and helmet, as well as water and snacks. It starts and ends at the John Paul Jones House Historic House Garden, ensuring a convenient and seamless experience.
The itinerary can be tailored to individual preferences, catering to a personalized exploration of the city. Suitable for most travelers, the tour isn’t recommended for those with back or heart problems. Infant seats are available, though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
With a 5.0 overall rating from previous participants, the tour is an excellent way to discover Portsmouth’s highlights on two wheels.
Read our full review: Explore the Area | Private & Custom Group Bike Tours | 2-2.5 Hrs. Review
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Gardens of Portsmouth Walking Tour
What better way to experience the natural beauty of Portsmouth than through a guided gardens walking tour? The Gardens of Portsmouth Walking Tour offers just that – a chance to explore the city’s historic neighborhoods and Prescott Park with an expert landscape designer.
This small-group tour (maximum 12 travelers) provides a personal and insightful experience for nature lovers and gardening enthusiasts. Participants will learn about the art of landscaping, including plant choices and placement, while receiving tips on how to apply this knowledge at home.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome. Plus, the tour is conveniently located near public transportation.
However, caution is advised when booking this tour, as there have been reports of the tour guide, Amanda Kelly, not showing up. Feedback from a single review mentions a negative experience, so it’s essential to research the tour provider, Viator, before making a reservation.
Read our full review: Gardens of Portsmouth Walking Tour Review
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Recap
Portsmouth offers a variety of guided tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s rich history and landmarks. From walking tours to ghost walks, these experiences provide an immersive way to discover the city’s past. Whether you’re interested in the architectural wonders of Old Portsmouth or the eerie tales of the city’s haunted past, there’s a tour to suit your interests and make the most of your time in this historic coastal destination.