Old Portsmouth Historical Walking Tour – an infernal den of Diabolical Demons

Old Portsmouth Historical Walking Tour – an infernal den of Diabolical Demons

Rating: 5.0
Review Count: 48
Location: Portsmouth, England
Price: $17.16 per person
Tour Provider: An infernal den of Diabolical Demons

Introduction

If you’re looking for a tour that takes you beyond typical sightseeing and into the shadowy corners of Portsmouth’s past, this Old Portsmouth Historical Walking Tour might be just what you need. It’s packed with tales of villains, legends, and curious characters that have left their mark on the city for nearly 900 years.

What we love about this experience is how it combines history, humor, and local insights into a surprisingly fun package. The guide, Samuel, is praised repeatedly for his enthusiasm and deep knowledge, making the stories come alive with humor and authenticity. The stops include iconic landmarks like the medieval Round Tower, and the tour’s focus on lesser-known, almost-forgotten stories offers a fresh perspective on a familiar city.

One possible consideration? The tour lasts just 1 hour and 30 minutes, which means you might want to stay longer exploring Portsmouth afterward. Also, given the narrow, sometimes tight lanes in Old Portsmouth, those with mobility issues might want to plan accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy quirky history, local stories, and engaging guides. It’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, or groups who appreciate a lively, storytelling approach to exploring a historic city.

Key Points

• Expert Guide: Samuel’s enthusiasm and knowledge make the tour engaging and fun.
• Authentic Stories: Hidden tales and amusing facts often missed by guidebooks.
• Historic Landmarks: From Landport Gate to Spice Island, each stop offers a glimpse into Portsmouth’s darker past.
• Balanced Length: At 1.5 hours, it’s a manageable, well-paced introduction to the city’s secrets.
• Affordable Price: At around $17, it offers good value for an entertaining, guided experience.
• Group Size: Small groups of up to 15 people ensure personalized attention and interaction.

Exploring Portsmouth’s Dark Side in a Walk

Portsmouth’s history isn’t all about naval ships and maritime glory — there’s a fair share of intrigue, villains, and stories that make the city more colorful. This walking tour is designed to showcase those lesser-known aspects, focusing on the city’s “diabolical” side, from medieval demons to lawless Spice Island.

Starting Point: Landport Gate and the City’s Foundations

The tour kicks off at Landport Gate, the only original entrance to Old Portsmouth. Here, your guide will paint a picture of Portsmouth’s medieval beginnings, including its connections to the ‘chapel’ of Thomas Becket — a detail that hints at the city’s long-standing religious and political ties.

You’ll also learn about Portsmouth’s ‘open air’ church, giving insight into how worship and community life were historically intertwined with the city’s defenses. The hot walls are mentioned as well — a name that may evoke images of warfare, but actually refers to the thick defensive walls that protected the city through centuries.

Reviewers rave about Samuel’s storytelling at this point, with one noting his ability to inject humor into what might seem like dry history. It’s a good starting point that sets the tone for the rest of the tour.

Spice Island: Lawlessness and Legends

Next, you’ll move to Spice Island, an area with a colorful reputation. Once considered a lawless zone, it was filled with rowdy sailors, pirates, and all manner of mischief. Today, it’s a lively spot, but the tour reveals the myths and realities of its riotous past.

Here, Samuel highlights the contrast between the “fun and frolics” of today and the darker, more shocking histories of the area. One reviewer mentions being stunned to discover the frightening stories lurking beneath the surface, which adds a layer of fascination for history buffs and casual visitors alike.

The Hidden Stories and Local Legends

Throughout the tour, you’ll hear about Portsmouth’s villains and characters, some of whom brought color and chaos to the streets. For instance, the stories about the lawless Point reveal a city that was once a haven for sailors and pirates, with tales that often get glossed over in standard guidebooks.

The guide’s ability to blend humor with history is highlighted repeatedly, making even the darker tales engaging and accessible. A reviewer notes, “Information given in a humorous way by an excellent guide,” which underscores how this approach makes learning enjoyable.

The Landport Gate and Medieval Roots

The Landport Gate isn’t just an entrance — it’s a symbol of Portsmouth’s resilience and medieval roots. The stories of how it was built, used, and sometimes repurposed give a tangible link to the past, which travelers can appreciate.

The Round Tower and Other Landmarks

The tour also takes you to the medieval Round Tower, a site that has watched over the city for centuries. While the tour focuses on stories of villains and demons, the architecture itself provides a visual anchor for the stories being told.

Practical Details and Experience Quality

The tour is designed for convenience — starting at Tesco Express on St George’s Road and ending at The Bridge Tavern on Camber Place, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing or dining options.

With a mobile ticket, this experience is flexible, and the small group size (max 15) ensures that everyone can engage, ask questions, and get personal insights from Samuel.

What Travelers Say

The reviews consistently praise Samuel’s enthusiasm, knowledge, and humor. One describes him as “someone who obviously loved what he was doing,” which is a big part of why the tour feels authentic and lively.

Another comment highlights how Samuel’s clear, accessible English made the stories easy for non-natives to follow — an important consideration for international visitors.

Why This Tour Offers Value

At just over $17, this tour provides a cost-effective way to learn about Portsmouth’s lesser-known stories, something that might not be covered in standard history books or city guides. For history lovers, the fact that you’ll uncover stories of villains and demons that shaped the city adds a layer of intrigue and authenticity.

The small group size means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the small time commitment makes it easy to slot into a busy travel schedule. Plus, the free cancellation policy offers peace of mind should your plans change.

The Sum Up

This Old Portsmouth Walking Tour offers a lively, engaging, and well-informed look into a side of the city that’s often overlooked. The combination of passionate storytelling, historical landmarks, and a well-paced route makes it an excellent choice for curious travelers wanting to go beyond surface-level sightseeing.

Perfect for those who enjoy history with a splash of humor, the tour’s focus on dark tales, legends, and the city’s “diabolical” past makes it stand out. It’s especially suited for history buffs, local lore enthusiasts, and anyone keen to explore Portsmouth’s more colorful stories.

While it may be a short experience, it’s packed with enough stories and insights to inspire further exploration of the city afterwards. The friendly, knowledgeable guide ensures it’s a memorable and authentic journey into Portsmouth’s shadowy corners.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable introduction to Portsmouth’s darker side.

What is the starting point?
The tour begins at Tesco Express, 19 St George’s Rd, Portsmouth PO1 2EW.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour involves walking through narrow lanes, so mobility may be a consideration.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, children interested in history and stories might enjoy it, but check with the provider for specific age recommendations.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
It involves walking through some tight lanes, so those with mobility challenges should consider this.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted.

What’s included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers the guided walk and access to the landmarks mentioned.

Can I join the tour at a different time?
Yes, you can choose from a selection of times to suit your plans, but booking in advance is recommended.

This tour is a fantastic way to uncover Portsmouth’s darker tales with a knowledgeable guide who makes history fun, engaging, and memorable. Whether you’re into legends, ghost stories, or simply want to see the city through a different lens, it’s well worth the price and time.