Portsmouth Ghost Tour

Exploring Portsmouth’s history doesn’t have to be dull or too traditional, especially when you add a spooky twist. This Portsmouth Ghost Tour, run by Supernatural Tours, offers a 1-hour journey into the eerie side of this historic port city. Priced reasonably at $17 per person, it’s a quick but immersive experience perfect for those with a taste for ghostly legends and haunted spots. The tour is staged with live actors, bringing chilling tales of death, torture, and hauntings vividly to life.

One of the things we really like about this experience is how it combines theatrical storytelling with historic locations, making the stories more memorable. The tour’s short duration makes it great for a quick evening outing, especially if you’re already exploring Portsmouth’s historic sites. However, a potential consideration is that it’s not suitable for children under 12, so families with younger kids might want to look for quieter daytime activities instead. This tour is a charming pick for history buffs with a penchant for the supernatural or anyone curious about Portsmouth’s darker past.

Key Points

• Authentic Haunted Places: Visit iconic sites like The Square Tower, Spice Island, and The Dolphin pub.
• Engaging Live Actors: The stories come alive through talented performers, enhancing the spooky atmosphere.
• Historical and Ghostly Tales: Learn about notorious figures like Buster Crabb and the mysterious Duke of Buckingham murder.
• Easy to Join: Starts at the historic Spice Island Inn, with an accessible meeting point.
• Weather-Ready: Tours run in all weather, so dress accordingly.
• Limited Duration: The 1-hour format is perfect for a quick, entertaining evening.

What to Expect on the Portsmouth Ghost Tour

Starting inside the historic Spice Island Inn, the tour immediately sets a dark, atmospheric tone. You’ll gather at the bottom of the staircase near the bar, where the guide — a lively storyteller with a knack for suspense — kicks off the evening. From there, the journey takes you into Portsmouth’s most haunted spots, all within a compact walking route.

The Route and Highlights

The tour’s core is a walk through some of Portsmouth’s most storied locations, each with its own ghostly history. We loved the way the guide, whose name is often mentioned as engaging and knowledgeable, seamlessly blends history with ghost stories, making each stop both educational and chilling.

The Square Tower is a main highlight. This historic fortification is known locally for being haunted, and the guide shares the story of the spirits believed to linger within its thick walls. Some reviews mention that the actors do a great job of making the tales come alive, with just enough scare factor to thrill without overwhelming.

The Dolphin pub is another stop, where the tales of ghostly sightings and strange noises are shared. Guests frequently mention the “eerie atmosphere” that pervades this lively pub after hours, which adds a layer of realism that many find captivating.

Spice Island, the starting point, is more than just a scenic spot. It’s steeped in maritime history and, according to stories, haunted by lingering spirits. The guide points out Buster Crabb, the famous diver associated with secret military missions, and shares the mysterious story of his connection to hauntings in the area.

The Stories and Atmosphere

From accounts of death and torture to the tale of the Duke of Buckingham murder, the stories are designed to keep you on the edge of your seat. The guide does a good job of balancing historical facts with spooky embellishments, giving each story weight and entertainment.

One reviewer noted, “The guide’s storytelling was lively and engaging — you could tell they loved sharing these tales,” which really enhances the experience. The use of live actors is a clever touch, with some reviews describing moments when actors “materialized from the shadows,” heightening the sense of immersion.

Practical Details and Value

At $17, this tour offers an affordable way to spend an hour in Portsmouth. The small group size ensures that you can hear the stories clearly and ask questions. The tour’s duration means it fits well into an evening plan, especially after visiting Portsmouth’s other attractions.

Since the tour takes place in all weather, it’s advisable to dress warmly or bring an umbrella, depending on the forecast. The meeting point at the bottom of the staircase near the bar is easy to find, and the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for many visitors.

The Experience Provider and Similar Options

Supernatural Tours curates this experience, focusing on blending history with supernatural storytelling. If you’re looking to extend your ghostly adventures or explore other Portsmouth sites, there are options like the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard ultimate explorer ticket, or visits to the Spinnaker Tower, which offer different perspectives on the city’s charm and history.

Links to similar experiences include the well-reviewed Portsmouth Ghost Walk and other tours that combine history with a spooky twist, suitable for those eager to explore beyond just ghost stories.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This ghost tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a quick, entertaining glimpse into Portsmouth’s darker past. It’s perfect for those who enjoy theatrical storytelling, historic architecture, or simply want to add a spooky twist to their sightseeing. Since it’s in the evening and involves walking outdoors, it suits visitors comfortable with short walks and unpredictable weather.

Families with children over 12 will also find it an entertaining and safe experience, but it’s less suitable for younger kids or those sensitive to scares. For history aficionados, the stories add a fun layer to Portsmouth’s already fascinating port history, making it a memorable way to explore the city after dark.

Final Thoughts

The Portsmouth Ghost Tour offers a cost-effective, engaging experience that combines storytelling, history, and a touch of the supernatural. Its main strengths are the live actors and atmospheric stops, which make the stories feel vivid and memorable. The short duration makes it accessible for most travelers, especially those seeking a pre-dinner activity or a quick evening thrill.

While it’s not a full-blown haunted investigation, it strikes a great balance—enough to entertain without overdoing it. The stories are well-crafted, and the guide’s enthusiasm shines through, making the hour fly by. The tour’s outdoor nature means you’ll get fresh air and city views, with plenty of spooky surprises along the way.

For anyone curious about Portsmouth’s haunted legends or looking for a fun, spooky activity after a day of sightseeing, this tour hits the right note—informative, slightly spooky, and genuinely entertaining.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Portsmouth Ghost Tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for children over 12 years old due to the spooky themes and stories.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a quick but impactful experience.

Where does the tour start?
It begins inside the Spice Island Inn, with guests meeting at the bottom of the staircase near the bar.

What is the price?
The tour costs around $17 per person, which is quite reasonable for the quality and length of the experience.

Are there any weather considerations?
Yes, tours take place in all weather, so dress accordingly and bring an umbrella or raincoat if needed.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible for many visitors.

What kinds of stories are shared?
Expect tales of death, torture, hauntings, and stories involving figures like Buster Crabb and the Duke of Buckingham.

Are live actors involved?
Yes, the tour features live actors who help bring the ghost stories to life.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour good for history lovers?
Absolutely. It weaves historical facts into ghost stories, making history more engaging and spooky.

To sum it up, the Portsmouth Ghost Tour offers a lively, well-balanced mix of storytelling and historic sites perfect for a short but memorable evening adventure. If you’re after a fun and slightly spooky way to explore Portsmouth’s past, this tour is definitely worth considering.