Old Portsmouth Historical Walking Tour – an infernal den of Diabolical Demons

Old Portsmouth Historical Walking Tour — an infernal den of Diabolical Demons

Seeking a different way to explore Portsmouth? This Old Portsmouth Historical Walking Tour promises a mix of intrigue, history, and humor, focusing on the city’s lesser-known, more shadowy tales. For just over $17, you’ll spend about an hour and a half wandering the narrow streets, uncovering stories of villains, myths, and historic landmarks. With consistently perfect reviews and a small group size, it’s a popular choice for those craving authentic local stories and a dash of mischief.

What makes this tour stand out? The guides are praised for their enthusiasm, deep knowledge, and humor, making history both entertaining and accessible. We especially love how the storytelling goes beyond the typical guidebook facts, revealing Portsmouth’s darker, more colorful side. However, a consideration is that some of the streets are quite tight, so those with mobility concerns should plan accordingly. This tour appeals best to curious travelers who enjoy local legends, history buffs, and anyone wanting to see the city from a different perspective.

Key Points

• Engaging guides: Enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and humorous, making history fun.
• Authentic stories: Focuses on Portsmouth’s darker tales, villains, and legends.
• Visit historic landmarks: Stops include Landport Gate and Spice Island.
• Small group experience: Intimate tours with a maximum of 15 travelers.
• Affordable value: Priced at only $17.16 per person for a rich, 1.5-hour experience.
• Ideal for all: Suitable for most travelers, with some considerations for tight lanes and mobility.

Discovering Portsmouth’s Hidden Dark Side

When thinking about Portsmouth, most picture its bustling maritime heritage, historic ships, and vibrant waterfront. But this tour shines a spotlight on the city’s less traditional stories — the secret histories, villains, and legends that make Portsmouth a city with a bit of devilish charm. This focus on the city’s diabolical details brings a fresh perspective that both history lovers and casual travelers find intriguing.

A guide who makes history come alive is a major highlight. Participants consistently praise guides like Samuel, who’s described as passionate, humorous, and full of fascinating facts that aren’t in the standard guidebooks. His enthusiasm brings the city’s darker tales to life, often with a humorous twist that leaves you smiling even as you learn about villains and lawless pasts.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Starting Point: Landport Gate

Your journey begins at the Landport Gate, Portsmouth’s only original city entrance. It’s the perfect spot to discuss Portsmouth’s medieval roots. The guide might ask if you’re brave enough to enter this so-called “infernal den of Diabolical Demons,” setting the tone for a tour that’s part history, part folklore.

This stop explores Portsmouth’s early beginnings, including its connection to the Thomas Becket chapel. You’ll learn about the city’s “open air” church traditions and the origin of the “hot walls,” which aren’t just a defensive feature but also part of the city’s medieval identity. One reviewer highlights the guide’s ability to weave these stories seamlessly, making history accessible and engaging.

Spice Island

Next, the tour moves to Spice Island, a lively neighborhood historically associated with lawlessness, fun, and danger. Visitors often find it surprising that this lively area has a darker past involving myth and reality.

The guide reveals that while Spice Island is now a place of modern enjoyment, it was once a hotbed of rowdiness and chaos, possibly with stories of pirates, smugglers, and debauchery. Reviewers have appreciated the vivid storytelling here, noting how the guide’s anecdotes shed light on Portsmouth’s lawless past. Expect to hear about the risks and excitement that once characterized this part of town.

Walking Through History

The tour lasts roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes, covering about 2 key stops, but it’s packed with stories, facts, and local lore. The small group size of up to 15 travelers makes it easy to ask questions and get personalized insights. Most participants find this intimate setting ideal for engaging storytelling.

The tour’s focus on hidden stories and lesser-known landmarks means you might want to revisit these places later for a closer look. The guide’s tips and pointers often inspire further exploration, whether that’s a future visit to the historical sites or deeper research into Portsmouth’s shadowy past.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At just over $17, this tour provides remarkable value for a deep, entertaining dive into Portsmouth’s history. Unlike large, generic city tours, you get a small group experience with a passionate guide who’s genuinely enthusiastic. The cost-to-knowledge ratio is high, especially considering the anecdotes, historical context, and local flavor that you won’t find in standard guidebooks.

The flexible tour times mean you can fit this into your Portsmouth itinerary, whether you’re arriving in the morning or later in the day. Plus, booking 33 days in advance indicates it’s a popular choice, especially among those seeking authentic stories and engaging guides.

Practical Information & Tips

• Meeting point is at Tesco Express on St George’s Road — a convenient location near public transit.
• The tour ends at The Bridge Tavern, close to other historic sites and good for extending your explorations.
• The experience is suitable for most travelers, with some mention of tight lanes — good footwear recommended.
• Service animals are allowed, and dogs on leads are welcome, making it friendly for pet owners.
• If weather conditions turn poor, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, so check the forecast and flexible with your plans.
• Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind if your schedule changes unexpectedly.

What Reviewers Say

The consistent praise for the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge truly makes this experience stand out. Caroline_D mentions Samuel as a “great guide, enthusiastic, interesting with immense knowledge and humorous,” which sums up the general sentiment. Connie_W highlights his ability to deliver information humorously, while Amanda_C appreciates seeing buildings from different periods and learning a lot about Portsmouth’s past.

Stephen_H notes that Samuel was “enthusiastic, very knowledgeable, and engaging,” offering helpful pointers for further research. Even French-speaking travelers like Philippe_B comment on how the guide’s clear communication makes the experience accessible for international visitors.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is perfect for history buffs who love uncovering lesser-known stories, as well as travelers seeking a fun, engaging experience away from the typical tourist trail. It’s especially suited for those interested in Portsmouth’s darker, more colorful past and stories of villains and legends.

If you’re traveling with a small group, enjoy lively storytelling, and want to see Portsmouth through a different lens, this tour will hit the mark. Families with older children, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a personalized, stories-based experience will likely find it very rewarding.

The Sum Up

The Old Portsmouth Historical Walking Tour offers a rare glimpse into the city’s shadowy, fascinating side. With passionate guides and a focus on authentic, lesser-known tales, it provides excellent value for money and a memorable experience. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a curious tourist, or someone looking for an offbeat adventure, this tour is a compelling way to spend 90 minutes exploring Portsmouth’s more mischievous past.

The small-group format and enthusiastic storytelling ensure an engaging, personal experience that keeps you entertained and informed. It’s a must-try for anyone wanting to see Portsmouth from a different angle—full of stories, legends, and a little devilish fun.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a perfect short but immersive experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Tesco Express on St George’s Road and concludes at The Bridge Tavern on Camber Place, both centrally located in Portsmouth.

Is the tour suitable for children or pets?
Yes, service animals are allowed, and dogs on leads are welcome. However, the tour involves some tight lanes, so consider your pet’s comfort and your children’s attention span.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the uneven, narrow streets. Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. Less notice means no refund, so plan accordingly.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Most travelers can participate, especially those interested in history and local legends. It’s a lively, engaging experience suitable for most ages, but note the emphasis on darker tales, which might be less suited for very young children.

Ready to uncover Portsmouth’s secrets? This tour offers an authentic, fun, and slightly mischievous look at the city’s past—perfect for curious explorers and lovers of stories with a twist.