Portsmouth may be small in size, but it offers a big array of tour options that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you’re a history enthusiast eager to walk among ships from the Tudor era, or someone looking for spectacular views from the iconic Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth has something to offer. We especially love the Portsmouth: Historic Dockyard Ultimate Explorer Ticket because it combines multiple historic ships and museums into one flexible pass, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy maritime history.
But Portsmouth’s appeal isn’t limited to ships. The city’s spectacular skyline is best appreciated from the Spinnaker Tower, which offers breathtaking panoramic views and even a glass Sky Walk. For those interested in uncovering the city’s lesser-known tales, walking tours like the Portsmouth of the Past Walking Tour or the Old Portsmouth Historical Walking Tour offer insights into Portsmouth’s colorful past. For a darker twist, the Portsmouth Ghost Tour and The Portsmouth Ghost Walk reveal spooky stories lurking in the city’s streets.
Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of the best tours in Portsmouth, each offering something different for every type of visitor. Whether you’re after a comprehensive history dive, a scenic high-altitude adventure, or a chilling ghost story, there’s a perfect experience waiting for you.
1. Portsmouth: Historic Dockyard Ultimate Explorer Ticket
At number 1 on our list, the Portsmouth: Historic Dockyard Ultimate Explorer Ticket is an outstanding value for anyone interested in maritime history. For $61.96 per person, this flexible pass lets you explore the dockyard and its most iconic ships over the course of a year—so you can take your time and revisit as often as you like.
This ticket includes access to the Mary Rose, a Tudor warship preserved from the 16th century, and HMS Victory, Lord Nelson’s flagship at Trafalgar, where you can walk in his footsteps. You’ll also get to see HMS Warrior, a formidable ironclad from the Victorian era, and visit multiple museums and exhibits that bring Portsmouth’s naval history to life. Plus, a water taxi ride will take you to the HMS Alliance, a Second World War submarine, adding a unique underwater perspective.
Guests consistently praise the flexibility and breadth of this pass; one reviewer said, “Well worth the money and the visit,” especially if you’re a history buff or traveling with kids who love ships. The only caveat is that since the ticket is valid for 365 days, you need to plan your visits but can spread them out comfortably.
Bottom Line: This all-in-one ticket is ideal if you want the ultimate maritime experience and the freedom to explore at your own pace. It’s especially good for families, history lovers, or visitors with multiple days in Portsmouth.
2. Portsmouth: Spinnaker Tower Ticket
Sitting at number 2, the Spinnaker Tower Ticket offers a quick but exhilarating experience. For just $25.53, you’ll enjoy 360-degree views from 170 meters above Portsmouth, with sights stretching over the Solent, Isle of Wight, and beyond. If panoramic vistas are your thing, this tower is a must-visit.
The highlight is the glass Sky Walk at 100 meters, which gives you a thrilling perspective of the city and harbor below. For a slightly different view, the Sky Garden at 110 meters provides an open-air platform, perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery. The touch screen interpretive panels at various levels make it easy to identify landmarks, ships, and coastlines.
Many visitors are thrilled by the experience of walking on glass and the sweeping views, with reviews calling it an “incredible” experience. Some note that the tower sways slightly in windy weather, which can be unnerving but adds to the adventure.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking short, spectacular sightseeing moments, or those with limited time who still want a memorable sky-high experience. The flexible return policy on the same day adds convenience.
3. Portsmouth: Portsmouth of the Past Walking Tour
At number 3, the Portsmouth of the Past Walking Tour offers an engaging 1.5-hour journey through the city’s centuries-old streets. For just $13.47, you get a compact yet rich overview of Portsmouth, focusing on stories of sailors, shipbuilders, and notable figures from the city’s maritime past.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, this walk covers the historic waterfront, revealing the secrets behind Portsmouth’s 500-year shipbuilding tradition and its role in Britain’s naval dominance. The tour also includes fun anecdotes, such as quirky facts about the city’s sailors and their lives, making it perfect for history lovers and curious travelers alike. It’s also an excellent choice for those wanting a quick, meaningful immersion into Portsmouth’s character.
Guests appreciate the personal touch of guides—one review called the tour “a great introduction” and appreciated the relaxed pace that allows for good photos and questions. The tour departs from the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard area, making it easy to combine with other visits.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors short on time but eager to learn about Portsmouth’s past in a lively, friendly atmosphere.
4. Old Portsmouth Historical Walking Tour
Number 4 on our list is the Old Portsmouth Historical Walking Tour, a 1.5-hour exploration of the oldest part of the city. For $16.84, you’ll wander cobbled streets, discover 900-year-old secrets, and hear stories of pirates, smugglers, and even ghosts.
Led by a passionate local guide, this tour dives into Portsmouth’s demonic past and the city’s infamous reputation for vice and villainy, providing a lively narrative that makes history feel immediate. You’ll see iconic landmarks and learn about Nelson’s last walk, as well as the hidden stories that official history books often overlook. The tour’s small size (16 reviews rate it 5 stars) ensures an intimate experience with plenty of time for questions.
Guests love the guide’s storytelling flair—one reviewer called Samuel “an excellent teacher of history who brought the area alive.” The tour is well-paced for both adults and teenagers, making it perfect for families interested in a spooky, fun history walk.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a lively, storytelling-focused tour that reveals Portsmouth’s darker and quirkier side, this is a top choice.
5. Portsmouth: Spinnaker Tower High Tea in the Clouds
For those looking for a relaxing, luxurious experience, number 5 is the Spinnaker Tower High Tea in the Clouds. Priced at $53.88 per person, this 3-hour event combines fantastic views with a traditional high tea.
You’ll indulge in finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and a selection of desserts while enjoying the tower’s spectacular vistas. The experience includes a general entry ticket to the tower, so you can explore the viewing decks at your leisure before or after your tea. The panoramic views extend up to 23 miles, making it perfect for a special occasion or a leisurely afternoon.
Reviews highlight the attentive service and stunning scenery, with one describing it as “well worth doing.” Be aware that it’s a longer commitment than other options, ideal if you want a more indulgent, leisurely experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a refined break with great photo opportunities, especially if celebrating a special event.
6. Old Portsmouth Guided Walk
Number 6, the Old Portsmouth Guided Walk, offers a full-day adventure for those wanting in-depth knowledge. For an unspecified price, this guided exploration takes you through historic streets and hidden corners, revealing Portsmouth’s heritage and craftsmanship.
Starting at the High Street, you’ll learn about the city’s last walk of Lord Nelson and explore the Sally Port Inn, a historic building with stories to tell. The 1.5-hour walk provides a detailed look into Portsmouth’s maritime past and local legends. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts wanting a leisurely, comprehensive experience.
Guests praise the guide’s expertise and engaging storytelling, making the history memorable. The tour is flexible enough to include visits to notable landmarks and allows for a more relaxed pace than shorter walks.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want a full-day, in-depth tour of Portsmouth’s historic streets and stories.
7. Portsmouth: Spinnaker Tower Abseiling Experience
For adrenaline junkies, number 7 is the Spinnaker Tower Abseiling Experience. Priced at $148.17, this tour turns the iconic tower into an outdoor adventure.
You’ll put on safety gear, walk out onto the 100-meter-high platform, and descend on a controlled abseiling rope. The experience offers unforgettable views of the harbor, the Solent, and the Isle of Wight, as well as the thrill of overcoming your fear of heights. The guide ensures safety and maximizes fun, making this perfect for active travelers seeking a unique challenge.
Guests describe it as an “adventurous memorizing” experience, and it’s suitable for those comfortable with heights and looking for something a little different. The tour lasts about an hour, with a focus on safety and adrenaline.
Bottom Line: Best for adventure seekers wanting a one-of-a-kind view and a rush of adrenaline. Suitable for physically capable, thrill-seeking travelers.
8. From London: Portsmouth Spinnaker Tower Entry & Rail Ticket
Number 8 offers a convenient day trip from London, with the Portsmouth Spinnaker Tower Entry & Rail Ticket. For $160.29, you’ll get round-trip train travel plus entry to the tower, making it ideal for those staying in the capital.
The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes each way. Once in Portsmouth, you can explore the city’s maritime sites or visit Gunwharf Quays for shopping. The tower visit provides incredible views of the harbor and beyond, giving you a quick but memorable experience of Portsmouth’s skyline.
This package is perfect for a day trip if you’re based in London or nearby, especially if you want an easy, stress-free way to see the city from above.
Bottom Line: Great for day-trippers seeking a straightforward, efficient way to combine travel and sightseeing without extra planning.
$160.29 per person
9. Portsmouth Ghost Tour
Number 9, the Portsmouth Ghost Tour, offers a spine-tingling look at the city’s haunted past. For $17, you’ll wander through dark streets, hearing tales of death, torture, and hauntings that have left their mark on Portsmouth.
Led by a live actor, this tour explores famously haunted sites like The Square Tower and shares ghost stories that are sure to send shivers down your spine. The tour lasts about 1 hour, making it perfect for an evening outing. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy spooky stories and atmospheric settings.
While reviews are not available, the lively storytelling style and focus on Portsmouth’s dark legends make this an engaging experience for those looking for something different from traditional history walks.
Bottom Line: Ideal for fans of ghost stories and supernatural tales, this tour offers a fun, eerie experience without a heavy time commitment.
$17 per person
10. The Portsmouth Ghost Walk
Rounding out our list at number 10, the Portsmouth Ghost Walk is a 1.5-hour guided tour that combines history, humor, and hauntings. Priced at $20.20, it takes you through the city’s dark underworld of smugglers, pirates, and haunted landmarks like the Round Tower.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour balances spooky stories with historical facts, making it entertaining and informative. The route starts at the Square Tower and ends at the Round Tower, offering a compact but thorough exploration of Portsmouth’s ghostly secrets. The consistent 5-star reviews reflect its popularity and quality.
It’s perfect for night owls and those who enjoy a mix of laughs and scares, especially since it includes engaging storytelling and lively narration.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a lively, spooky night walk with a mix of ghost stories and city history.
$20.20 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Portsmouth Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your interests, budget, and how much time you have. History buffs might favor the Portsmouth: Historic Dockyard Ultimate Explorer Ticket, while thrill-seekers could go for the Spinnaker Tower Abseiling. If you want a relaxed experience, the High Tea in the Clouds offers a memorable dining experience with stunning views.
For those short on time, the Spinnaker Tower Ticket and walking tours provide quick but immersive options. Budget travelers will appreciate the Portsmouth of the Past Walking Tour or the ghost walks, which deliver a lot of storytelling for a modest price.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular experiences like the ghost tours or tower visits, which can fill up during busy seasons. Check availability ahead of time, and consider combining different tours for a full Portsmouth experience.
Final Thoughts
Portsmouth offers a variety of tours that cater to all interests, from comprehensive maritime explorations to breathtaking views and spooky stories. If history and ships excite you, the Ultimate Explorer Ticket is unbeatable, especially with its flexible 365-day validity. For view lovers, the Spinnaker Tower delivers spectacular scenery in a short visit. For thrill-seekers, the Abseiling experience adds adrenaline to your trip.
Whichever experience you choose, Portsmouth’s tours promise memorable moments rooted in authentic stories and stunning sights. Be sure to book early, plan your interests, and enjoy this lively coastal city to the fullest.