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- Kids Things To Do Hampshire
- Portchester Castle
Where are we going?
Address: Church Road, Portchester, Hampshire, PO16 9QW How do we get there? Number: 02392 378291
About this activity
Get ready to explore history at Hampshire's Portchester Castle!
The remarkable history of Portchester Castle goes right back to the 3rd century AD that saw the Romans build a vast fort right in the very spot the castle stands today.
Then, during the 5th century this fortress transformed into a Saxon settlement, then following the Conquest of 1066, the fortress became a Norman castle. In fact, for medieval kings back in the day it was an important embarkation point for crossing the English Channel!
During your time exploring Portchester Castle, kids can make their way around the 12th Century Norman keep (which is actually one of the tallest in the country)
Inside, the whole family can discover varied stories of the many people who called the castle home — from the grandest of royals to even prisoners of war.
Yes, Portchester Castle once served as a prisoner-of-war camp from 1665, something that peaked during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic wars from 1793 - 1815.
At one time it even housed up to 8,000 prisoners of men from all around the world.
In fact, did you know that the French prisoners of war set up a theatre in the early 1800s? You can learn all about it during your visit!
After you've taken in all of that history, don't miss a chance to visit the top of the castle keep for breathtaking views of the Solent!
Activity location
Directions
Road access on the south side of Portchester off A27; Junction 11 on M27
There is parking located just outside the castle, less than 200 metres from entrance. Contains about 100 spaces
Postcode : PO16 9QW / Latitude : 50.837415, Longtitude : -1.114906
Nearest train station is Portchester Station, 1 mile from the castle
How much does it cost?
Adults
£9.00 (with donation)
Children
Ages 5 to 17: £5.40 (with donation)
Discount
Free for members. Concessions £8.10 with donation
Free Under
5 years
Last Updates
2023
Portchester Castle FAQ’s
Pushchairs welcome, but can only access ground floor levels. Pushchairs may be left in Inner Bailey.
You can find a small selection of snacks, plus hot and cold drinks on site. There is also a tea room at the Church nearby run by church volunteers.
Keep an eye on events that they are hosting across the year. Some are members only, but more reason to check out membership!
Make sure you stop by the gift shop where you can find toys and games, stationery, souvenirs and guidebooks!
With 1700 years of history, Portchester Castle covers everything from the Romans, to medieval kings, all the way to the Napoleonic Wars. Follow in their footsteps and explore its exciting and varied history.
Portchester Castle covers multiple time periods within the history curriculum, as well as cross-curricular links across numerous subjects
Pushchairs welcome, but can only access ground floor levels. Pushchairs may be left in Inner Bailey.
Why not take your own lunch!? The entire Outer Bailey is ideal for picnicking. There are picnic benches and a grass area for picnicking in the Inner Bailey.
They have accessible toilets, and handrails, and assistance dogs are welcome.
There is wheelchair access via the drawbridge and you'll find level, smooth grass. Ground floors of the Keep and exhibition within reach via a ramp. No wheelchair access above ground floor level. Compacted gravel paths lead to the outer Bailey and Roman walls
It's worth noting that there are no toilet facilities on site. The nearest toilets are located in the large car park outside the castle walls.
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