Portchester Castle

About Portchester Castle

Looking for a fun family day out? Visit Portchester Castle in Hampshire, Southeast England. It provides the perfect setting for a relaxed, fun, historic day out. The castle’s commanding location has made it a major factor in the Solent’s defences for hundreds of years.

Things to see at Portchester Castle

Positioned directly on the waterfront, Portchester Castle is an amazing example of a Roman fort. With incredible views over the Solent from the top of the Norman Keep, a fascinating exhibition and a variety of historical artifacts, a visit to Portchester Castle is a must for budding historians.

Start with the exhibition located in the Norman keep where you will find displays that help to interpret the history of the castle and Portchester village. In addition, impressive sound installations help to portray the day to day lives of the soldiers who were stationed at Portchester Castle. Visitors can even scale the 100 foot keep and soak in the awe-inspiring scenery surrounding the castle.

After viewing a selection of amazing finds that were excavated on site, guests will love discovering the prisoners’ theatre that was used by French prisoners of war between the years of 1810-1814. This Georgian theatre allowed prisoners to showcase the latest Paris productions to the locals. The wooden stage has been carefully recreated by English Heritage to give visitors a glimpse of how the theatre would have looked more than 200 years ago.

If you are planning a day out to this attraction, why not bring a picnic on the luscious green lawns surrounded by the castle walls. Take a moment to relax in this idyllic space, the perfect spot to refuel on your day of discovery.

Please check the website www.english-heritage.org.uk/portchestercastle for updated opening times.

Please check the website www.english-heritage.org.uk/portchestercastle for updated prices.

Why should I visit?

    • Portchester Castle is a medieval castle built within a former Roman fort located at the northern end of Portsmouth Harbour. The monarchy controlled the castle for several centuries and it was a favoured hunting lodge of King John.
    • Occupying a commanding position at the head of Portsmouth Harbour there are wonderful views from the roof of the castle’s keep. The castle saw the disembarkation for several campaigns to France led by England’s kings including for the Battle of Agincourt.
    • Later in its history, the castle was used as a prison – the fascinating tale explored in a fascinating new exhibition in the keep which brings the history of the castle and Portchester to life.
    • Large grounds for a family picnic surrounded by history
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Where to find us

Address

Portchester Castle
Church Road
Portchester
PO16 9QW

Find us online

By car

Postcode: PO16 9QW
On the south side of Portchester off A27; Junction 11 on M27.
Free parking located just outside the castle, less than 200 metres from entrance. Contains about 100 spaces. (Managed by Fareham Borough Council.) Contains 3 coach bays.

By train

Portchester train station 1 mile

By bus

First service 3 to within 1⁄4 mile

Kids activities

harry hampshire

  • Enjoy the great outdoors with lots of open space to run around
  • A great place to let imaginations roam
  • Uncover fascinating history

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