Top Portsmouth Culture

You will be walking with Dr Lillian Cespedes Gonzalez, a PhD historian who has been living and studying in the south of England for 13 years. (Please note our team has grown in the last 4 years and although Lillian delivers the majority of our tours, there are other guides now all trained by her who are either historians/educators). During this walk you will learn the history of Portsmouth as a naval city and the impact the development of the Royal Navy had on this town. We will talk about main events in British history such as the First and Second World War, the Peninsula War, the development of naval warfare and the impact it has had in human life. But also, we will get to experience a beautiful and charming seaside city with lovely views and a character of its own.

Jane Austen spent the last eight years of her life in the village of Chawton, a period during which she wrote all six of her novels. Get to know this quintessentially English village’s present and past on this tour led by an international guide and Chawton resident. Discover the different cottages and how they connect to Jane’s life and get context on Jane Austen’s House Museum and Chawton House.

Discover the rich maritime heritage at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, home to a remarkable collection of naval treasures and iconic ships. Engage with 500 years of history as you explore famous vessels like HMS Victory, HMS Warrior, and The Mary Rose, each telling its unique story. Enjoy the interactive exhibits and various museums dedicated to naval exploration and innovation. With the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard ticket, gain full access to all attractions for an unforgettable day of exploration and learning at this unique waterfront destination.

The Isle of Wight, home to a variety of distinctive landscapes, dramatic cliffs, long stunning beaches and great attractions, is a natural playground for all ages! Take a stroll trough Godshill, a quintessential English Village, with its delightful medieval church, charming thatched roofed cottages and traditional tearooms. Soak up the view on the scenic drive to Alum Bay, known for its multi-coloured sand cliffs and stunning scenery. Enjoy a panoramic chairlift to the stunning beach (you can also choose to walk) and the many exciting attractions here for all the family. On the beach you get a close up of "The Needles", one of the most photographed groups of rocks in the world. Get a great photo of Portsmouth's Spinnaker Tower and Historic Dockyard as your ferry departs to, and returns from the Isle of Wight.

Get the lowdown on Portsmouth’s lesser-known history, with a tour that focuses on the diabolical side of the city. With a guide who’s both a local Portmuthian and passionate historian, you’ll hear the tales of the villains and characters who brought color to Portsmouth’s streets over the last 900 years. Stops to check out landmarks like the medieval Round Tower complete the experience.

Embark on a historical journey through Portsmouth! This interactive tour takes you from the Roman roots of the Guildhall to the dramatic decks of HMS Victory and the dizzying heights of the Spinnaker Tower. Follow in the footsteps of Charles Dickens and Isambard Kingdom Brunel, uncover royal secrets, and explore historic dockyards that shaped naval history. Become a master and commander of Portsmouth history! Solve puzzles, explore the city, and find hidden gems at your own pace. Try a new type of experience with your smartphone, the perfect mix between a walking tour, sightseeing, and a scavenger hunt.