Guided tours and walks

There’s a veritable army of tour guides operating in Portsmouth, ready to showcase the city’s heritage and history. Their guided tours and walks are informative and educational, but also fun – and cover a vast array of interests.

Discover the history of Spice Island, or learn all about the city’s links with Admiral Nelson. If, on the other hand, you prefer all things supernatural, head out on a ghost tour of the areas said to be the most haunted. There are also tours of the city’s most famous (or indeed infamous residents) from centuries gone by at Highland Road cemetery, where many influential people have been laid to rest.

So throw away that map and be guided by the experts for a tour that will get you deep into the heart of historic Portsmouth.

Portsmouth Guiding Service

If you belong to a local group or society and wish to learn more about Portsmouth and its history, Portsmouth Guiding Service offers exclusive walks which can be tailored to meet your individual requirements and interests. At just £40 for up to 25 people, this is a great way to explore Portsmouth's rich history.

Some of the Guiding Service’s guided walks include:

Spice Island - Discover the story of The Point (also known as Spice Island), named for its importance as a major port importing exotic spices from around the world. It’s here that the city sprang to life, and the perfect starting point to uncover the history of Portsmouth. We recommend this walk for visitors that are looking for a general introduction to the city and its history.

Nelson Trail - Follow the last steps of Admiral Horatio Nelson, uncovering the places and buildings that Nelson would have passed through and visited before he boarded HMS Victory. Team this walk with a visit to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and learn about life on-board Nelson's Victory.

The Birthplace of Dickens - Born in Portsmouth on 7th February 1812, Charles Dickens is one of the city's most famous inhabitants. On this guided walk you'll discover the story of Charles' family and some of the places that may have influenced his later works. Whilst this walk doesn't include a visit to the Charles Dickens' Birthplace Museum, you may want to organise a separate visit for the full literary experience - however, check opening times beforehand as it's not a year-round attraction.

Dockyard to Old Portsmouth - This walk embraces both old and new aspects of the city. Starting at the entrance to the Historic Dockyard, the walk goes through Gunwharf Quays - Portsmouth's vibrant waterfront area - which once stored cannons, ammunition and other armaments and later became HMS Vernon. It ends in Old Portsmouth, once known as Spice Island, for you to discover the city's old defences and its many historical buildings and features.

Portsmouth and D-Day - On 6th June, 1944 allied forces landed on the beaches of Normandy, signalling the beginning of the end of World War 2. This walk will explain how Portsmouth played an important part in lead up to D-Day. Make sure you don't miss out on The D-Day Story in Southsea.

A private guided walk for up to 25 people begins from just £40. To find out more or book your tour, email vis@portsmouthcc.gov.uk.