Portsmouth: Old Portsmouth Guided Walk

Exploring Portsmouth’s Old Portsmouth on a guided walk offers a wonderful way to uncover the city’s stories, sights, and secrets. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect.

What truly appeals are the expert guides, the chance to discover hidden corners, and the opportunity to combine history with a relaxed pub atmosphere. We also love that the tour includes a visit to a four-floor antiques shop, turning what might seem just a walk into a mini museum experience.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour involves about 90 minutes of walking and some uneven surfaces—meaning it’s best suited for those with reasonable mobility. This experience is perfect for history buffs, curious locals, or visitors wanting an authentic, less touristy way to enjoy Portsmouth.

Key Points

• Authentic guided experience through historic streets of Old Portsmouth
• Learn fascinating stories including Admiral Lord Nelson’s last walk
• Visit a historic pub and antiques shop that’s more like a museum
• Guides are knowledgeable and welcoming, enhancing the experience
• Accessible and family-friendly, with some considerations for mobility
• An affordable way to combine sightseeing, history, and local culture

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is This Tour All About?

The Portsmouth: Old Portsmouth Guided Walk is designed as a comprehensive stroll through centuries of local history. Starting at the historic Sally Port Inn, the tour takes you through the narrow, cobbled streets, revealing stories behind each corner.

The experience typically lasts about 1.5 hours of walking, with a chance to relax at the pub afterward. It’s not just about seeing sights; it’s about learning the stories behind Portsmouth’s lively streets, from its maritime past to notable figures such as Admiral Lord Nelson.

The tour is provided by Sally Port Tours—a company known for knowledgeable guides and a focus on authentic, engaging experiences. The tour’s pace is manageable, and the group size tends to be small enough for a personalized feel.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting at the Sally Port Inn

Your journey begins at the historic Sally Port Inn, located on the ground floor, to the right of the entrance. Here, you’ll enjoy a brief chat over tea or coffee with biscuits, setting a friendly, informal tone for the walk. This start point is perfect for warming up and getting acquainted with your guide, who will then lead you through the streets of Old Portsmouth.

The Guided Walk (1.5 hours)

Expect a leisurely walk through the labyrinth of historic streets, where your guide will point out lesser-known gems and share stories that make Portsmouth’s past come alive. As one reviewer noted, their guide Dave was “very knowledgeable and welcoming,” adding a personal touch to the experience.

Highlights include stories about the area’s significance in maritime history and snippets about notable locals, including the story of ‘Buster’ Crabb, which the group discusses later during the debrief at the pub.

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Hidden Gems and Historic Sights

While the tour doesn’t include entry into places like the cathedral or garrison church, it compensates with local insights and outdoor views. You’ll see the charming streets that have witnessed centuries of naval activity, with some hidden corners that many visitors miss.

Return to the Sally Port Inn and Explore

After the walk, you get the chance to step back into the pub for a debrief and perhaps enjoy a drink—tasting ales, lagers, and especially rum, which ties into Portsmouth’s maritime lore. The pub’s historic ambiance adds to the overall authentic feel.

The Antique Shop – A Bonus

Above the pub, you’ll find Sally Antiques, a four-floor emporium resembling a museum. Here, you can browse and discuss weapons and equipment from conflicts over the past three centuries with experts. One review highlighted how this part of the tour added a tangible, museum-like quality, making it more than just a walk.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Knowledgeable Guides

Both reviews emphasize the expertise and friendliness of guides like Dave. Their storytelling adds depth, making history feel personal and memorable, rather than just facts on a page. Guests often mention how guides are eager to answer questions and bring stories to life.

Authentic Local Experience

Instead of a generic sightseeing tour, this walk offers a glimpse into the everyday life and secret corners of Old Portsmouth. It’s ideal for those who want to see the city through the eyes of locals, discovering stories behind the buildings and streets.

The Combination of History and Leisure

The tour balances learning with relaxation. Starting with a warm drink, walking at a gentle pace, and ending with a social drink in a historic pub makes the experience enjoyable for a broad audience.

The Antique Shop Visit

The four-floor antiques shop provides a surprising twist—more like a museum—where you can explore historic weapons and equipment, adding a tangible connection to Portsmouth’s military past. This is especially appreciated by history enthusiasts and collectors.

Practical Details and Considerations

Duration and Pace

The 1.5-hour walking tour is comfortably paced, suitable for most visitors with reasonable fitness. The walk covers the historic streets, with some uneven surfaces, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

Meeting Point and End

The tour begins at the Sally Port Inn and concludes there, making it convenient for those staying nearby. The pub’s central location means you can easily continue exploring or grab a meal afterward.

Cost and Value

While the exact price isn’t specified here, the tour’s inclusion of a guided walk, a drink, and access to the antiques shop makes it a cost-effective way to see Portsmouth. Compared to entry tickets for individual sights, this offers a well-rounded experience at a manageable price.

Accessibility and Restrictions

This experience is not wheelchair friendly due to some stairs and uneven terrain. Also, children under 18 are not permitted, primarily owing to licensing restrictions. No food is provided during the tour, but guidance is given on nearby eateries.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This walk is perfect for history enthusiasts, especially those interested in maritime stories, local legends, and hidden corners of Portsmouth. It’s also great for small groups or couples, looking for an engaging, relaxed activity that combines storytelling with a local pub atmosphere.

If you’re traveling solo or with friends, you’ll find this tour offers a friendly, social vibe. Given the focus on storytelling, guides like Dave are a highlight and can make the experience both educational and fun.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a well-balanced blend of history, local flavor, and relaxed socializing. The guides’ knowledge and approachable manner make it stand out, ensuring you’ll leave with stories to tell.

The inclusion of a visit to the antiques shop adds a unique touch, transforming a simple walk into an interactive experience. The tour’s length and price point make it an excellent choice for those seeking authentic insights without feeling overwhelmed.

Certainly, this tour is best suited for adults with an interest in history and local culture. It’s not geared towards those with mobility issues or very young children, but for most travelers wanting a genuine taste of Portsmouth’s past, it’s a memorable, worthwhile activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
It’s not wheelchair accessible due to some stairs and uneven surfaces. Those with mobility concerns should consider this before booking.

How long does the guided walk last?
The walking portion takes about 90 minutes, followed by time to relax at the pub and explore the antiques shop.

What is included in the price?
You’ll get a guided walk, tea or coffee with biscuits at the start, a debrief talk about ‘Buster’ Crabb, and access to Sally Antiques’ four floors.

Can I visit inside churches or other historic buildings?
No, due to time constraints, entry into the cathedral, garrison church, or square tower is not included.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, children under 18 are not permitted because of licensing restrictions.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, water, and a reusable water bottle are recommended.

Is there a dress code?
No specific dress code, but practical, comfortable footwear is advised given the walking involved.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to plan flexibly.

Where does the tour end?
It concludes back at the Sally Port Inn, making it easy to continue exploring or dining nearby.

In short, the Portsmouth: Old Portsmouth Guided Walk offers a friendly, authentic, and flexible way to discover the city’s maritime past and hidden stories. With knowledgeable guides, a relaxed pace, and unique extras like the antiques shop, it’s a fantastic activity for those eager to experience Portsmouth beyond the usual tourist spots.

You can check availability for your dates here: