Portchester Castle
A medieval castle built within a Roman coastal fort, with some of the most complete Roman walls in northern Europe.
Portchester Castle stands on the north shore of Portsmouth Harbour. The outer walls of the Saxon Shore fort, built by the Romans in the 3rd century, are still almost intact and enclose roughly 36,000 square metres. In the 12th century the Normans raised a tall square keep in one corner, and Henry V assembled his army here before setting out for Agincourt. Climb to the top of the keep for panoramic views over the harbour. The castle is managed by English Heritage. Admission is about £10, while the grassy area inside the walls is free. Take a bus or train to Portchester station, then walk about 20 minutes.
Opening hours
10:00–17:00 (winter approx. 10:00–16:00)
Nearby sights
- Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower
- Mary Rose Museum
- HMS Victory
- Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
- HMS Warrior (1860)
- Charles Dickens Birthplace Museum
- Spinnaker Tower
- Gunwharf Quays