Portsmouth: Old Portsmouth Historical Walking Tour

Portsmouth’s Old Town beckons with the promise of a captivating historical journey. Dark tales of demons and the occult have long haunted this area, earning it a sinister reputation as an ‘infernal den.’ Beyond the supernatural, the city’s story unfolds through the scandals of Lord Nelson, the fiery spirit of the ‘Portsmouth Polls,’ and the mischievous antics of the infamous Jack Nastyface. Uncover these intriguing narratives as you explore the intrigues that flourished within the city’s coffeehouses. Prepare to be enthralled as you explore Portsmouth’s past and discover its hidden gems.

This experience made our list of the 8 Best Walking Tours In Portsmouth.

Key Points

• Explore the city’s reputation as an ‘infernal den of demons’ and uncover the sinister supernatural legends of Old Portsmouth.
• Explore the remarkable life and scandals of Lord Nelson, one of Britain’s greatest naval heroes, during his time in the city.
• Witness the outspoken and defiant "Portsmouth Poll" women as they challenged societal norms and verbally sparred with the town’s elite.
• Follow the mischievous exploits of the rogue Jack Nastyface, who captivated visitors with his quick wit and elaborate pranks.
• Discover the seedy underbelly of Old Portsmouth, where unscrupulous characters gathered in dimly lit coffeehouses to engage in espionage and deception.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Discover the Diabolical Past

Old Portsmouth’s diabolical past comes to life as the walking tour guides visitors through the city’s dark history.

From tales of demons and the occult to stories of notorious criminals, this part of the tour delves into the area’s sinister past.

Guests will learn about the city’s reputation as an ‘infernal den of demons,’ where supernatural forces were once believed to roam the streets.

The tour explores the spooky legends and ghastly tales that have haunted Old Portsmouth for centuries, providing a chilling glimpse into the shadowy underbelly of this historic city.

Through vivid storytelling, the guide brings the area’s sinister past to life, leaving participants with a deeper understanding of Old Portsmouth’s darker traditions.

Uncover the Truth of Lord Nelson

The tour delves into the intriguing life and legacy of Lord Nelson, dispelling common myths and uncovering the true story behind this iconic naval hero.

Visitors learn about Nelson’s remarkable career, his decisive victories at sea, and the personal scandals that often overshadowed his achievements. They discover how Nelson’s rise to fame was shaped by his strategic brilliance, bold leadership, and unwavering patriotism.

Yet, the tour also examines the darker aspects of Nelson’s life, including his controversial affair with Lady Hamilton and the resulting fallout that tarnished his reputation. By the end of this segment, participants gain a more nuanced understanding of the man behind the legend of Lord Nelson.

Tales of Portsmouth Poll Women

Portsmouth Poll women were a notorious group of female characters who gained infamy for their brazen and unruly behavior during the 18th and 19th centuries. Unafraid to speak their minds and challenge societal norms, these women were known for their quick wit, sharp tongues, and willingness to engage in public confrontations and scuffles.

Some of the most famous tales include:

• The notorious ‘Portsmouth Poll’ who was said to have fought off three men in a street brawl.
• The tale of the Poll woman who interrupted a sermon, shouting, ‘Ye’re all a pack of rogues!’
• The story of the Poll who publicly berated a naval officer for his mistreatment of sailors.
• Accounts of the Polls verbally sparring with the town’s elite, unafraid to call out hypocrisy and injustice.

Capers of the Rogue Jack Nastyface

One infamous rogue who left an enduring mark on the lore of Old Portsmouth was the mischievous Jack Nastyface, whose colorful exploits and irreverent behavior earned him a reputation as a legendary scoundrel.

Known for his quick wit and penchant for mischief, Nastyface was a notorious figure in the city’s history, his name whispered with a mix of awe and trepidation.

Whether it was staging elaborate pranks, outwitting the authorities, or engaging in the seedier aspects of life in the port town, Nastyface’s capers were the stuff of legend.

His exploits continue to captivate visitors to this day, offering a glimpse into the vibrant and sometimes turbulent history of Old Portsmouth.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Coffee, Espionage, and Rogue Tales

Intertwined with the rogue tales that pervaded Old Portsmouth was the captivating connection between coffee, espionage, and the city’s seedy underworld. Unscrupulous characters would often gather in dimly lit coffeehouses, where the aroma of freshly brewed java mingled with whispers of intrigue and deception. These clandestine meetings provided the perfect backdrop for the exchange of sensitive information, the hatching of bold schemes, and the plotting of daring escapades that would leave an indelible mark on the city’s storied past.

The allure of coffee’s intoxicating brew, coupled with the thrill of illicit activities, created an atmosphere of mystery and excitement that captivated both the city’s denizens and the visiting public.

The coffee houses of Old Portsmouth were hubs of intrigue, where plots were hatched and secrets were traded.

Furtive glances, hushed conversations, and the clink of porcelain cups added to the air of suspicion and danger.

Espionage, deception, and the pursuit of personal gain were the driving forces behind many of the city’s rogue tales.

The interplay of coffee, espionage, and the seedy underbelly of Old Portsmouth created a captivating tapestry of stories that still fascinates today.

Meeting Point and Accessibility Details

The meeting point for the Old Portsmouth Historical Walking Tour is located directly opposite the bus stop outside the Tesco express, approximately halfway down St Georges road in Old Portsmouth.

This easily accessible location ensures that participants can conveniently gather and begin the 1.5-hour walking tour.

The tour is wheelchair-friendly, catering to visitors of all mobility levels. Though the route does include some minor uneven surfaces, such as cobblestones, the guide ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for all.

It’s important to note that the tour isn’t recommended for children under 12 years old, as the content may not be suitable for younger audiences.

With these details in mind, participants can look forward to an engaging and accessible exploration of Old Portsmouth’s captivating history.

Tour Duration and Distance

Spanning approximately 1.5 miles, the Old Portsmouth Historical Walking Tour takes guests on a 1.5-hour exploration through the captivating past of this coastal city. The leisurely pace allows visitors to soak in the rich history and intrigue that permeates the streets of Old Portsmouth.

Uncover the dark secrets that earned the city a notorious reputation as an ‘infernal den of demons.’

Explore the truth behind the legendary Lord Nelson and his connection to the area.

Hear tales of the colorful characters who once roamed these very alleys, from the infamous Portsmouth Poll women to the mischievous Jack Nastyface.

Discover the surprisingly vital role that coffee and espionage played in the city’s storied past.

Suitability and Recommended Audience

The Old Portsmouth Historical Walking Tour caters to a diverse audience, though it’s not recommended for children under 12 years old due to the tour’s focus on the city’s darker historical narratives. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for visitors with mobility challenges. Plus, the approximately 1.5-mile distance and some minor uneven surfaces, such as cobblestones, suggest the tour may not be suitable for those with limited mobility or endurance. However, the live tour guide provides a personalized and engaging experience, making the tour accessible to a wide range of visitors interested in exploring the diabolical past and captivating stories of Old Portsmouth.

Suitability	Recommended
Children under 12	Not recommended
Wheelchair users	Accessible
Visitors with limited mobility	May have difficulty

Recap

Portsmouth’s Old Town offers a captivating look into the city’s dark and storied past.

Uncover the sinister reputation, supernatural forces, and scandals that have haunted the area.

Explore the mischievous antics of infamous figures, and discover the intrigues that flourished in the city’s coffeehouses.

This historical walking tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich and diverse history of Portsmouth’s Old Town.

You can check if your dates are available here: