Built in 1544, Southsea Castle was part of a series of fortifications constructed by Henry VIII around England's coasts to protect the country from invaders.
Barely was the work completed when Henry VIII stood inside only to watch his flagship, the Mary Rose, tragically sank. During the English Civil War, nearly a century later, the Castle was captured for the only time in its history, by Parliamentarian forces.
Over the centuries, Southsea Castle's defences were strengthened so that it could continue to protect Portsmouth. In the 19th Century a tunnel was built to defend the Castle moat. Visitors can still enter the tunnel and see how the Castle would have been defended against invaders. Artillery, gun platforms and panoramic views from the top of the keep overlook the Isle of Wight and Solent.
The Castle is open March to October free of charge, with a fabulous cafe offer, great Waterfront Gifts shop and micro-brewery. The Castle's Cafe also offers a Champagne bar every Friday evening (in season).
Please note that on the occassion of a wedding at Southsea Castle, certain parts may be inaccessable to members of the public. To check if there is an event or wedding taking place in the castle, please use the contact details provided.
Average rating 4.1/5 from 400 plus reviews
Ticket Type | Ticket Tariff |
---|---|
Free admission | Free |
Note: Prices are a guide only and may change on a daily basis.
Nearest stations are Portsmouth & Southsea or Portsmouth Harbour.
Winter Closing - October to March (1 Nov 2020 - 23 Mar 2021) | ||
---|---|---|
Day | Times | |
Monday - Sunday | Closed* |
Summer Opening (24 Mar 2021 - 31 Oct 2021) | ||
---|---|---|
Day | Times | |
Monday | Closed | |
Tuesday - Sunday | 10:00 | - 17:00 |
Bank Holiday | 10:00 | - 17:00 |
The D-Day Story is the only museum in the UK dedicated to the Allied Invasion in June…
Please be aware that The D-Day Story will be closed in line with the government's…
Enter the Blue Reef Aquarium and take a safari from the depths of the Solent to the…
The dignified and beautiful Kings Theatre is one of the most elegant Edwardian playhouses…
Cumberland House Natural History Museum remains closed at this time.
Please be aware that Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery will be closed in line with the…
Year-round programme of solo, group and themed exhibitions of contemporary visual art,…
Portsmouth Guildhall is one of the premier event and entertainment venues on the South…
One of the South Coast's most popular shopping destinations, Gunwharf Quays is filled…
View things differently at the top of Britain’s best viewing tower – the stunning 170…
Get up close to HMS Alliance at the Royal Navy Submarine Museum, the only remaining…
Portsmouth is still the home of the modern Royal Navy and taking the Harbour Tour offers…
A purpose-built play and party centre for toddlers through to 12-year olds.
Trip to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard - The Full Navy Ticket. Access to amazing…
HMS Warrior 1860 was Britain’s first iron-hulled, armoured warship and the pride of Queen…
Action Stations is a high-tech, interactive indoor attraction housed in Boathouse 6. The…