The "Portsmouth: Portsmouth of the Past Walking Tour" promises a captivating exploration of the city’s rich history. Guided by an experienced local, participants dive into over 2,000 years of tales, from the lives of sailors to the maritime heritage that defines this vibrant port. With highlights like the Historic Dockyard and Spinnaker Tower, the tour offers an enriching experience for history enthusiasts. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a curious visitor, this 1.5-hour journey through Old Portsmouth’s past is sure to leave you intrigued, eager to discover more about the city’s fascinating stories.

Good To Know

  • The Mudlarks Statue serves as a symbolic starting point for exploring Portsmouth’s rich 2,000-year history on this 1.5-hour walking tour.
  • The tour offers insight into sailors’ lives, notable city characters, and significant historical periods from the Roman era to modern naval history.
  • Engaging storytelling by an experienced local guide brings Portsmouth’s vibrant maritime heritage to life through tales of pirates, heroes, and colorful characters.
  • The tour includes access to the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and Spinnaker Tower, providing a comprehensive experience of the city’s historical and cultural attractions.
  • Positive customer feedback highlights the tour guide’s friendly demeanor, extensive knowledge, and the overall captivating and value-for-money experience.

The Mudlarks Statue and Meeting Point

The tour begins at the Mudlarks Statue, located just 30 meters away from the entrance to the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.

This meeting point is conveniently close to the Portsmouth Harbour Station and the Hard Bus Interchange, making it easily accessible for visitors.

The Mudlarks Statue is a symbolic representation of the city’s long history, as it depicts the "mudlarks" – people who scavenged the River Thames in search of items of value.

This statue serves as a fitting starting point for a tour that will explore the rich and fascinating history of Portsmouth.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Reservation and Cancellation Policy

Reserving a spot on the Portsmouth: Portsmouth of the Past Walking Tour is straightforward – there’s no upfront payment required.

Customers can simply book now and pay later, with the option to cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This flexible policy allows for easy planning and changes if needed.

The available starting times can be confirmed upon request, so interested parties are encouraged to inquire about the schedule.

This hassle-free booking process and generous cancellation policy make the Portsmouth walking tour an attractive option for visitors looking to explore the city’s rich history at their convenience.

Tour Highlights and Inclusions

During the 1.5-hour walking tour, participants explore Old Portsmouth’s 2,000 years of history, focusing on the city’s quirky stories and hidden treasures.

The tour includes:

  • Learning about sailors’ lives, the city’s heroes, villains, and victims
  • Experiencing significant historical points from Roman times to modern naval history
  • Gaining entrance to the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and Spinnaker Tower
  • Receiving an activity book and pencils for children to engage with the tour

Accompanied by a guide with over 40 years of local experience and extensive knowledge, the tour offers an entertaining mix of humor, love stories, and historical anecdotes.

This makes it enjoyable for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.

Exploring Old Portsmouth’s History

Old Portsmouth’s streets hide a tapestry of captivating tales, each thread woven into the city’s rich 2,000-year history.

On this walking tour, you’ll uncover the stories of sailors, heroes, villains, and victims who’ve shaped the city’s past.

Explore significant historical sites from Roman times to the modern naval era, learning about the city’s colorful characters and their impact.

From quirky anecdotes to love stories, the engaging guide’s storytelling brings Portsmouth’s past to life, offering an immersive and entertaining glimpse into the city’s vibrant heritage.

Sailors’ Lives and City Legends

As we explore Old Portsmouth’s captivating history, we’ll uncover the stories of the sailors who once roamed these streets, their lives intertwined with the city’s legends.

You’ll hear tales of:

  1. The notorious pirate Blackbeard and his connections to the city.
  2. The heroic actions of local sailors during wartime.
  3. The superstitions and traditions that shaped the lives of these seafarers.
  4. The colorful characters who frequented the area’s pubs and alehouses.

Through these enchanting narratives, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the vibrant maritime heritage that has long defined Portsmouth.

Significant Historical Periods

Though spanning over 2,000 years, Portsmouth’s captivating history encompasses several significant periods that have shaped the city’s development.

From the Roman era, when Portsmouth was a key naval base, to the medieval period, when it became a prominent port, the city has witnessed pivotal moments.

The English Civil War, the Napoleonic Wars, and the two World Wars all left indelible marks on Portsmouth, showcasing its resilience and strategic importance.

Today, the city’s rich maritime heritage is celebrated, with many historical sites, museums, and attractions providing insights into its storied past.

Exploring these significant periods allows visitors to truly enjoy Portsmouth’s unique and captivating history.

Engaging Storytelling and Tour Guide

The tour guide’s engaging storytelling is a highlight of the Portsmouth: Portsmouth of the Past Walking Tour.

With over 40 years of local experience, the guide effortlessly weaves together a mix of humor, love stories, and historical anecdotes, bringing the city’s past to life.

Participants can expect:

  1. Entertaining narratives that capture the quirks, heroes, villains, and victims of Portsmouth’s history.

  2. Insightful commentary on the city’s significant historical periods, from Roman times to modern naval history.

  3. A personalized touch, as the guide tailors the experience to the interests and needs of each group.

  4. A truly immersive journey through Portsmouth’s rich heritage, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the city’s past.

Positive Customer Feedback

Positive reviews from past participants highlight the immersive and enjoyable nature of the Portsmouth: Portsmouth of the Past Walking Tour.

Travelers consistently praise the guide’s friendly demeanor, extensive knowledge, and engaging storytelling that brings the city’s history to life. The tour has an impressive overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 24 reviews.

Reviewers note the tour offers excellent value for money, with a 4.7 out of 5 rating in this category. Couples, families, and solo travelers alike have found the experience to be captivating, with the guide skillfully weaving together humor, love stories, and historical anecdotes to create an entertaining and educational journey through Portsmouth’s past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Beverages on the Tour?

Participants are typically allowed to bring their own snacks and beverages on the tour. However, it’s always best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure there are no restrictions or rules regarding food and drink during the walking tour.

Is There a Bathroom Break During the 1.5-Hour Tour?

There’s no specific mention of a bathroom break during the 1.5-hour walking tour. However, as it covers a range of historical sites, the tour guide likely accommodates participants’ needs for breaks as necessary throughout the experience.

Are the Tour Guides Available to Answer Additional Questions After the Tour?

The tour guides are generally available to answer additional questions after the tour. They are knowledgeable about the local history and happy to provide more information or recommendations to interested participants.

Does the Tour Include Entry to Any Museums or Attractions Beyond the Listed Inclusions?

The tour includes entrance to the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and Spinnaker Tower. Beyond these listed inclusions, it does not appear to provide access to any additional museums or attractions based on the information provided.

Are Audio Headsets Provided for Easier Hearing During the Walking Tour?

Audio headsets are not explicitly mentioned as being provided for this walking tour. The tour details focus on the guide’s engaging storytelling and the included historical sites, rather than discussing any audio equipment or assistance for guests.

Sum Up

The "Portsmouth: Portsmouth of the Past Walking Tour" offers an immersive exploration of Old Portsmouth’s rich history. Led by a captivating local guide, the tour takes participants on a 1.5-hour journey, delving into the lives of sailors, notable figures, and the city’s vibrant maritime heritage. With highlights like the Historic Dockyard and Spinnaker Tower, this tour promises an enriching experience for history enthusiasts.