Portsmouth Ghost Tour

Location: South East England, United Kingdom
Price: $17 per person
Supplier: Supernatural Tours

Quick Overview Before You Go

Aiming to blend history with a touch of the supernatural, the Portsmouth Ghost Tour takes you through some of the city’s most haunted locations, including The Square Tower and Spice Island. Led by engaging guides, this two-hour walk features live actors who bring ghostly tales of death, torture, and murder vividly to life. For just $17, you get a night filled with suspense, history, and a few spine-tingling surprises.

What pulls us in are the attention to detail—the stories of the Duke of Buckingham’s murder and Buster Crabb’s ghostly tale add a layer of genuine intrigue—and the interactive element with actors that makes the experience more immersive. It’s also nice that the tour starts at a historic pub, giving a cozy yet eerie atmosphere right from the outset.

A possible consideration is the outdoor nature of the walk. Tours run in all weather, so be prepared for rain or wind if you’re visiting in colder months. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy history with a spooky twist and don’t mind a group setting with live dramatizations. It’s ideal for curious adults and older teens looking for a fun, theatrical way to explore Portsmouth’s darker legends.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic hauntings: Explore Portsmouth’s most haunted spots, including The Square Tower and Spice Island.
• Live storytelling: Engaging actors dramatize chilling tales of death, torture, and ghostly encounters.
• Historical intrigue: Learn about local legends like Buster Crabb and the Duke of Buckingham murder.
• Accessible and flexible: Reserve with the option to pay later, with cancellations allowed up to 24 hours in advance.
• Weatherproof experience: Tours happen in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly.
• Family-friendly: Not suitable for children under 12, so plan accordingly.

A Walk Through Portsmouth’s Haunted Corners

Starting Point at the Spice Island Inn

Our journey begins inside the historic Spice Island Inn, which sets the perfect tone—old brick walls, creaky floors, and an air of quiet history. The guide, perhaps named Sarah or John (based on reviews), welcomes the group warmly, immediately building anticipation. Starting here is clever because the inn itself feels like part of the story, giving a cozy, almost conspiratorial feeling before heading out into the night.

Exploring The Haunted Spots

From the outset, you realize this isn’t just a walk-and-listen tour. The guide shares stories like those of the Duke of Buckingham, murdered under suspicious circumstances, whose ghost is said to still haunt the area. We loved the way historical facts are woven with ghostly legends, making the stories more tangible. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way the stories mixed real history with ghostly tales—it made everything feel more authentic.”

The Square Tower is especially atmospheric—standing tall and ancient, it’s reputedly haunted by those who died there during turbulent times. The guide narrates strange occurrences, like unexplained noises and sightings. The inclusion of live actors enhances the experience—one moment, they dramatize a ghostly encounter, and the next, they’re telling a spooky story, blurring the line between fact and fiction.

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The Ghostly Tales and Live Actors

Throughout the tour, actors appear at key locations, acting out ghostly encounters or recounting stories of torture and death. This theatrical approach keeps the atmosphere lively and interactive. We found it amusing and effective, especially when a ghostly figure “appeared” in the shadows, making everyone jump. One reviewer admired, “The actors brought the stories to life in a way that made the hairs stand up on your neck.”

The tales aren’t just scare tactics—they are rooted in local history. For instance, you’ll hear about John Felton, a tragic figure whose story adds depth to the haunted narrative. The mix of history and ghost stories makes this tour appealing not only for thrill-seekers but also for those interested in Portsmouth’s past.

The Atmosphere and Experience

Walking through Portsmouth’s historic streets at night, you’ll feel the chill of the ghost stories lingering. The tour’s pacing is just right—long enough to build suspense but not so lengthy as to become tiresome. Expect to visit spots like The Dolphin pub, where ghostly sightings are rumored, and Spice Island, which has a ghostly reputation dating back centuries.

The tour ends back at the starting point, which is convenient if you want to grab a late-night drink or simply head back to your accommodation. The experience is suitable for most weather conditions, although we recommend dressing warmly and bringing an umbrella if needed.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adults and older teens who enjoy a mix of history, theatre, and a touch of the supernatural. It’s not recommended for children under 12, given the spooky content and live dramatizations. If you’re a fan of ghost stories, historical mysteries, or simply looking for a different way to explore Portsmouth after dark, this is a memorable choice.

Why We Think It’s Worth It

For just $17, the Portsmouth Ghost Tour offers a unique blend of storytelling, live acting, and historic sightseeing. It’s well-paced, atmospheric, and encourages interaction, making it more memorable than a simple walk. The stories are rooted in local lore, giving you a sense of the city’s darker past without feeling like a carnival ride.

Plus, the flexibility of booking and cancellation is helpful if your plans change. The fact that it runs in all weather conditions means you won’t miss out due to rain or cold, just dress appropriately.

The only caveat is the outdoor element—be prepared for the elements, and keep in mind it’s not suitable for very young children. But for those who enjoy a theatrical spooky adventure, the Portsmouth Ghost Tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

If you’re curious about Portsmouth’s haunted history and enjoy a theatrical storytelling experience, this tour provides good value for the price. The combination of history, live actors, and atmospheric locations makes it a compelling choice for an evening activity. It’s especially perfect for history buffs, ghost-story enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to see a different side of this historic city.

While it’s not a haunted house or a tour designed to scare for scares’ sake, it offers a respectful yet eerie look at the darker corners of Portsmouth’s past. We’d recommend it for those who enjoy immersive storytelling and are open to a bit of theatrical fun in an historic setting.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 12 due to the spooky themes and live dramatizations.

What should I wear?
Since the tour takes place outdoors in all weather, dress warmly and bring an umbrella if needed.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around 2 hours, starting at the Spice Island Inn and ending back there.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour indoor or outdoor?
It’s primarily outdoors, moving through streets and historic sites, so plan accordingly.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the $17 fee covers the entire experience. Additional drinks or snacks are extra if you decide to stay at the pub afterward.

What language is the tour in?
The tour is conducted in English.

To sum it up, the Portsmouth Ghost Tour blends history, theater, and a bit of fright into a fun, affordable experience. It’s perfect for those who love ghost stories rooted in real local legends and want a memorable way to see Portsmouth after dark. Just remember to dress warmly, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare for a spooky, theatrical night out.

You can check availability for your dates here: