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Round Tower

4.6
·1k reviews·, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Ship departure/arrival times

Lively atmosphere with ships

CrowdMedium
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Morning

Round Tower

Best Time

Ship departure/arrival times

Lively atmosphere with ships

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(1k reviews)

"A perfect viewing point for ships entering or leaving the harbour with great views over Portsmouth and the sea."

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TIP

🚢 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.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Harbour Entrance Views

Harbour Entrance Views

Top of the tower

Panoramic vistas of ships entering and leaving Portsmouth Harbour. A prime spot for maritime enthusiasts.

Art Gallery

Art Gallery

Inside the tower

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

Sunset Spectacle

Sunset Spectacle

Ramparts and seating areas

Enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the sea with plenty of seating for visitors.

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Harbour Views & Art

The Round Tower offers stunning harbour views, perfect for watching ships. It also houses an art gallery. Consider visiting during ship departures/arrivals for a lively atmosphere. Parking is limited, so public transport or walking is advised.

Sunset & Amenities

This spot is ideal for sunset viewing with ample seating. Nearby amenities include toilets, pubs, restaurants, and studios. It's easily accessible from Gunwharf Quays and Harbour station.

Best Times

When
Ship departure/arrival times
Why
Lively atmosphere with ships
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunset
Why
Beautiful golden hour
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

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. Reddit

🌅 Sunset Spot

Plenty of seating available to enjoy stunning sunset views over the water. Reddit

🅿️ Parking Challenges

Parking is very limited and paid. Consider public transport or walking from Gunwharf Quays. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Easy Access

Walkable from Gunwharf Quays and Harbour station. Bus tours also drop off nearby. Reddit

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. Reddit

🌅 Sunset Spot

Plenty of seating available to enjoy stunning sunset views over the water. Reddit

🅿️ Parking Challenges

Parking is very limited and paid. Consider public transport or walking from Gunwharf Quays. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Easy Access

Walkable from Gunwharf Quays and Harbour station. Bus tours also drop off nearby. Reddit

🎨 Art & Views Combined

Enjoy local art exhibitions inside the tower alongside the scenic harbour outlook. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

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

Stunning harbour views
Great sunset spot
Art gallery on-site

What People Dislike

Limited parking

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, bus tours often drop visitors within easy walking distance of the Round Tower, making it a convenient option for many. Reddit

Absolutely! The Round Tower is a pleasant walk from Gunwharf Quays, offering scenic views along the way. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

The exterior and viewing areas are generally accessible during daylight hours. The art gallery's specific opening times should be confirmed before your visit. Reddit

Generally, there are no major restrictions for visiting the viewing areas. However, be mindful of any specific gallery hours or event schedules. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. Reddit

Yes, the Round Tower offers excellent photographic opportunities, especially for capturing ships, harbour activity, and sunsets. Reddit

Public toilets are conveniently located right beside the Round Tower for visitors. Reddit

Yes, there are plenty of seating areas provided for visitors to sit, relax, and enjoy the views. Reddit

To see ships entering or leaving the harbour, check local ferry schedules or naval ship movements. Departures and arrivals often create a lively atmosphere. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are a variety of pubs and restaurants located near the Round Tower, offering dining options for visitors. Reddit

While there isn't food service directly within the tower itself, there is a cafe and numerous pubs and restaurants in the immediate vicinity. Reddit

You'll find a range of options, from traditional pub fare to other restaurant cuisines, given its proximity to established dining establishments. Reddit

Yes, there is a cafe located near the Round Tower, offering refreshments for visitors. Reddit

Given the tourist-friendly nature of the area, you'll find several family-friendly dining options within easy walking distance. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit

Ship spotting photography, seascape shots, and sunset photography are very popular here due to the location and views. Reddit

Absolutely! The Round Tower is perfectly situated to photograph the ferries that travel to and from the Isle of Wight and France. Reddit

Golden hour, especially during sunset, provides beautiful light. Midday offers clear views of ship activity, while dawn can also be picturesque. Reddit

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, always be mindful of any specific gallery rules or if photographing military vessels. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Round Tower is a fantastic spot for families, offering both entertainment and educational value. Kids will be fascinated by watching the large ships and ferries come and go from the harbour. It's a great place to spark an interest in maritime activities and naval history. Reddit

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. Reddit

🌅 Couples and Photographers

For couples, the Round Tower offers a romantic setting, especially during sunset. The panoramic views and the sound of the sea create a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll and enjoying the twilight hours together. Reddit

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. Reddit

🚶‍♂️ Day-Trippers

The Round Tower is a perfect addition to a day trip to Portsmouth, easily accessible and offering significant visual appeal. It's a great place to start or end your exploration, especially if arriving by train at Harbour station or visiting Gunwharf Quays. Reddit

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Harbour Views

The Round Tower is a prime location for experiencing the maritime pulse of Portsmouth. Its strategic position offers unparalleled views of ships entering and leaving the bustling harbour. Visitors often gather here to witness the impressive sight of Royal Naval ships, ferries to the Isle of Wight and France, and other vessels. The surrounding ramparts and seating areas provide comfortable vantage points for extended viewing sessions. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Art and History Intertwined

The Round Tower itself is a historical fortification, built in the 15th century, adding a layer of historical significance to its modern use. Inside, it now serves as an art gallery, showcasing the work of local artists. This fusion of historical architecture with contemporary art creates a unique cultural experience for visitors. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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