Portchester Castle
Fareham, Hampshire
About Portchester Castle
Ever wanted to visit a former Roman fortress? What about a Norman stronghold or a prisoner-of-war camp during the Napoleonic wars? Well, you can do ALL that and more at Portchester Castle, Hampshire! Get ready for stunning views, 1700+ years of history, hands-on activities and more at this Royal Castle!
Portchester Castle History
Portchester Castle can be traced back to the 3rd Century AD. The Romans built a huge fort in 285-290 AD at the north end of Portsmouth Harbour to help defend the south coast of England. Did you know Portchester Castle remains the best-preserved Roman Fort north of the Alps? Which part of the castle was part of the Roman Fortress? It's the outer walls to the right of the waterfront. After the Norman Conquest, Portchester Castle was granted to William Maudit (an associate of William the Conqueror!), who is linked to having built the castle as we know it today, with the Roman fort integrated into the medieval castle.
The castle was a royal residence, home to a long line of Kings until King Charles I. It was then used as a prison during major wars of the 18th Century, including French prisoners of war during the Napoleonic wars. The castle housed up to 8'000 prisoners! There was even a prisoner's theatre set up between 1810 and 1814, where French prisoners would put on plays for their fellow prisoners and the local community. They'd create a melodrama from scratch, which helped form contemporary theatre!
As you explore the castle grounds, you'll find plenty of opportunities to spark your children's imagination. They can picture themselves as Roman soldiers defending the fort, medieval knights preparing for battle, or even French prisoners locked away during the Napoleonic Wars.
Things To Do At Portchester Castle
You can explore the 12th-century Norman Keep (one of the country's tallest!). Climbing to the top of the keep is a must-do on your visit! You'll get to see some spectacular views of the Solent! On a clear day, you can actually see the Isle of Wight from the castle! An audio guide is available that helps explain life in the castle throughout the years—they offer English and French audio guides. You'll also learn how the English Castle design developed over time!
Check out the Prisoner's exhibition at the castle! You'll learn all about the prisoners' lives in the castle, including finding out about the Prisoner's theatre. Once you've explored the castle, visit the grounds within the castle walls. There's plenty of space for the kids to run around and burn off excess energy, plus the large grassy area is the perfect picnic spot for a family picnic! You'll even see the moat around the castle!
Portchester Castle regularly hosts family-friendly events and hands-on activities perfect for kids of all ages. These events are designed to bring the history of the castle to life in an engaging and interactive way and further your understanding of castles! There's always something exciting happening at the castle, so be sure to check out what's happening!
If you are ready to step back in time in one of the UK's most unique castles, then you need a trip to Portchester Castle!
Why We Recommend Portchester Castle
- You'll see the most stunning coastal views
- There are audio tours available to help you learn all about the castle's history
- Inside the castle walls is the perfect picnic spot
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A Roman Fortress and a Norman Castle, All in One
One of the most fascinating aspects of Portchester Castle is its dual identity as both a Roman fortress and a Norman stronghold. Built by the Romans in 285-290 AD; the outer walls of this ancient Roman fort still stand, making Portchester Castle the best-preserved Roman fort north of the Alps. Centuries later, after the Norman Conquest, the castle was transformed, integrating the Roman walls into a medieval stronghold. You'll literally walk through layers of history as you explore the grounds!
There's A Prisoner-of-War Camp with a Prisoners Theatre
During the Napoleonic Wars in the early 19th century, Portchester Castle took on an unexpected role as a prisoner-of-war camp. The castle housed up to 8,000 prisoners. Among the prisoners was a vibrant theatre culture that emerged as a form of creative expression and morale-boosting. It's absolutely fascinating and well worth checking out!
Spectacular Views from the Norman Keep
The 12th-century Norman Keep, one of the tallest in the country, is a must-visit feature of the castle. Climbing to the top rewards you with stunning panoramic views of the Solent and, on clear days, the Isle of Wight. It's a serene and picturesque experience that will connect the past with the natural beauty of the present. It's an unforgettable highlight!
Facilities
Toilets
Gift Shop
Onsite Parking
Food Available
Dog Friendly
Opening Times
- Monday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Tuesday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Wednesday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Thursday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Friday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Saturday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Sunday, 10:00 - 17:00
Open weekends in the winter
Pricing & Tickets
- Babies and Toddlers (0-4) : Free
English Heritage Members - Free
General Admission (non-members) without donation:
Adult - £7.70
Child - £4.00
Concession (students & over 65s)- £6.80
Family (2 adults and up to 3 children)- £19.40
Family (1 adult and up to 3 children) - £11.70
General Admission (non-members) with donation:
Adult - £8.50
Child - £4.50
Concession (students & over 65s)- £7.50
Family (2 adults and up to 3 children)- £21.50
Family (1 adult and up to 3 children) - £13.00
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
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Plan Your Visit
Typical visit time 1 - 2 hours
Suitable for Kids and Adults too
Food & Drink Options
There is a small selection of snacks, hot and cold drinks sold on site. However, you can also visit the tea room in the Church nearby for a range of hot and cold food.
FAQs
Parking
Toilets
Family Friendly Options
Food & Drink
Accessibility Information
Tickets & Bookings
Private Hire & Birthday Parties
Public Transport
Contact Details
English Heritage
Portchester Castle
Castle Street, Portchester
Fareham
Hampshire
PO16 9QW
England
Tel: 03703331181
Visit WebsiteTransport Information
By Car
Portchester Castle on the south side of Portchester. The castle is off A27; Junction 11 on M27.
By Train
The closest station is Portchester Station, which is a 20-minute walk or a 4-minute taxi ride away.
By Bus
First bus service 3 stops within 1⁄4 mile of the castle.
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Last Updated: 13:05 03/09/2024
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