
Round Tower
Historic 15th-century fortification offering panoramic harbour views, an art gallery, and a prime sunset-watching spot.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere with ships

Round Tower
Best Time
Lively atmosphere with ships

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 15th-century fortification offering panoramic harbour views, an art gallery, and a prime sunset-watching spot.
"A perfect viewing point for ships entering or leaving the harbour with great views over Portsmouth and the sea."

🚢 Watch Ships Go By
Perfect spot to see Royal Naval ships and ferries. Families often gather here for departures and arrivals.
🌅 Sunset Spot
Plenty of seating available to enjoy stunning sunset views over the water.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Harbour Entrance Views
Top of the tower
Panoramic vistas of ships entering and leaving Portsmouth Harbour. A prime spot for maritime enthusiasts.

Art Gallery
Inside the tower
Explore local art within the historic fortification. A unique blend of history and contemporary creativity.

Sunset Spectacle
Ramparts and seating areas
Enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the sea with plenty of seating for visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Harbour Views & Art
Sunset & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visiting for the day! Recommended spots?
🚢 Watch Ships Go By
Perfect spot to see Royal Naval ships and ferries. Families often gather here for departures and arrivals.
🌅 Sunset Spot
Plenty of seating available to enjoy stunning sunset views over the water.
🅿️ Parking Challenges
Parking is very limited and paid. Consider public transport or walking from Gunwharf Quays.
🚶♀️ Easy Access
Walkable from Gunwharf Quays and Harbour station. Bus tours also drop off nearby.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Watch Ships Go By
Perfect spot to see Royal Naval ships and ferries. Families often gather here for departures and arrivals.
🌅 Sunset Spot
Plenty of seating available to enjoy stunning sunset views over the water.
🅿️ Parking Challenges
Parking is very limited and paid. Consider public transport or walking from Gunwharf Quays.
🚶♀️ Easy Access
Walkable from Gunwharf Quays and Harbour station. Bus tours also drop off nearby.
🎨 Art & Views Combined
Enjoy local art exhibitions inside the tower alongside the scenic harbour outlook.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Round Tower for its spectacular harbour views, making it an ideal spot for watching ships and enjoying sunsets. The art gallery adds a cultural dimension, and its accessibility from key transport hubs is a plus. However, limited and costly parking is a common drawback.
"A perfect viewing point for ships entering of leaving the harbour. Toilets are just beside the tower as are variety of studios and long established pubs and restaurants.When Royal Naval Ships leave or return to the harbour families will crowd the tower and surrounding ramparts and beach. Parking is very limited and only pay to park places are available. The round tower is easy walking distance from the Gunwharf Quays of Harbour station. Bus tours will drop you off within east walking distance too. The fish dock is nearby and you can walk East along the seafront for miles visiting play parks, Royal Naval Memorials or just watching the coming and goings of the ferries to and from the Isle of Wight and Caen in France. The only hovercraft service in the world is beside the funfair and a quick way over the Solent."
Nigel Huxtable
"Great view out to the sea and walk across the millennium parade to spend half a day. Well worth a visit when in Portsmouth."
Editor WMGP
"Great monument allowing great views over Portsmouth and the sea.
Plenty of seating area for visitors to sit and watch sunset or ships go by."
Sam Aberman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Round Tower is easily accessible by walking from Gunwharf Quays or Portsmouth Harbour train station. Bus tours also provide convenient drop-off points nearby. Parking is limited and paid, so public transport is recommended.
Parking near the Round Tower is very limited and available only in paid parking areas. It's advisable to use public transport or walk from nearby hubs like Gunwharf Quays.
Yes, bus tours often drop visitors within easy walking distance of the Round Tower, making it a convenient option for many.
Absolutely! The Round Tower is a pleasant walk from Gunwharf Quays, offering scenic views along the way.
The closest train station is Portsmouth Harbour, and Gunwharf Quays is a popular hub. Many bus routes also serve the area, making it easy to reach without a car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Round Tower itself and its viewing areas is generally free. However, any specific exhibitions or events within the art gallery might have separate admission fees.
The Round Tower is typically accessible during daylight hours for viewing the exterior and harbour. The art gallery inside may have specific opening times, which are best checked locally.
While the tower's viewing platforms are free, the art gallery housed within may have an admission fee. It's recommended to check for current exhibition details and pricing.
The exterior and viewing areas are generally accessible during daylight hours. The art gallery's specific opening times should be confirmed before your visit.
Generally, there are no major restrictions for visiting the viewing areas. However, be mindful of any specific gallery hours or event schedules.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy panoramic views of the harbour entrance, watch ships, visit the art gallery, and relax in the seating areas. It's also a popular spot for watching sunsets.
Yes, the Round Tower offers excellent photographic opportunities, especially for capturing ships, harbour activity, and sunsets.
Public toilets are conveniently located right beside the Round Tower for visitors.
Yes, there are plenty of seating areas provided for visitors to sit, relax, and enjoy the views.
To see ships entering or leaving the harbour, check local ferry schedules or naval ship movements. Departures and arrivals often create a lively atmosphere.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are a variety of pubs and restaurants located near the Round Tower, offering dining options for visitors.
While there isn't food service directly within the tower itself, there is a cafe and numerous pubs and restaurants in the immediate vicinity.
You'll find a range of options, from traditional pub fare to other restaurant cuisines, given its proximity to established dining establishments.
Yes, there is a cafe located near the Round Tower, offering refreshments for visitors.
Given the tourist-friendly nature of the area, you'll find several family-friendly dining options within easy walking distance.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of the tower offers excellent vantage points for ships and the harbour. The ramparts and surrounding areas are also great for capturing the sea and sunset.
Ship spotting photography, seascape shots, and sunset photography are very popular here due to the location and views.
Absolutely! The Round Tower is perfectly situated to photograph the ferries that travel to and from the Isle of Wight and France.
Golden hour, especially during sunset, provides beautiful light. Midday offers clear views of ship activity, while dawn can also be picturesque.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, always be mindful of any specific gallery rules or if photographing military vessels.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With plenty of open space on the ramparts and seating areas, families can comfortably spend time here. The nearby toilets are a practical convenience. While parking is limited, the easy walk from Gunwharf Quays or public transport makes it manageable for families. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy with the scenic backdrop.
🌅 Couples and Photographers
Photographers will find this location incredibly rewarding. The harbour provides constant activity for ship photography, while the open horizon is perfect for capturing dramatic sunsets. The historical architecture of the tower itself also offers interesting compositional elements.
🚶♂️ Day-Trippers
Combine your visit with a walk along the seafront, exploring nearby memorials, or enjoying the amenities at Gunwharf Quays. The proximity to the hovercraft service also offers a unique travel option for those looking to explore further afield.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Harbour Views
Beyond ship spotting, the tower is renowned as an excellent spot for capturing the sunset. The open sea vista allows for unobstructed views as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant colours. This makes it a popular destination for photographers and those seeking a tranquil moment by the water.
It's worth noting that while the views are spectacular, parking is scarce and paid. Many visitors opt to walk from nearby Gunwharf Quays or Harbour station, or arrive via bus tours, making it an accessible attraction for most.
Art and History Intertwined
Exploring the gallery offers a chance to appreciate local creativity while being surrounded by centuries-old stone walls. The juxtaposition of old and new is a key element of the Round Tower's charm. It provides a different perspective on the building's purpose throughout history, from defence to artistic expression.
While the art gallery's specific opening times can vary, it's a worthwhile addition to the visit, especially for those interested in the local arts scene. It complements the primary draw of the harbour views, offering a more rounded cultural experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit