Old Portsmouth

The ancient fortified heart of Portsmouth, with harbour-mouth defences, a cathedral and atmospheric waterfront pubs.

Old Portsmouth, known locally as Spice Island at its southern tip, borders Portsea to the south and represents the original settlement from which the city grew. While technically a distinct area, it is so closely linked to Portsea that the two are often discussed together. The area is defined by its surviving fortifications, including the Round Tower and Square Tower at the harbour mouth, sections of the town walls and the moat that once separated it from Portsea. The streets here are among the oldest in the city, with Broad Street, High Street and Bath Square retaining a character that recalls the Georgian and earlier periods. Portsmouth Cathedral, originally the parish church of St Thomas of Canterbury founded in the twelfth century, stands at the heart of Old Portsmouth. The waterfront pubs, particularly the Still and West and the Spice Island Inn, are well known for their harbour views and long histories. Grand Parade and the Hot Walls area offer fine walks along the seafront fortifications with views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight. The residential streets contain a mixture of Georgian townhouses, Victorian terraces and some more recent infill, creating one of the most characterful neighbourhoods in the city. Old Portsmouth provides Portsea's southern boundary and its historic complement.