The Round Tower in Portsmouth, Hampshire is a historic building that has served many purposes over the centuries. Built in the 16th century, it has been a gunpowder magazine, a fortification, and a coastal defense, and is now a popular tourist attraction. It is a Grade I listed building and a Scheduled Ancient Monument, and has been designated a Heritage Site.
History of the Round Tower
The Round Tower was built in the 1540s as part of the Royal Navy’s dockyard at Portsmouth. It was part of a chain of coastal defense structures that stretched from the Isle of Wight to the Solent. The tower was intended to protect the dockyard from attack and to provide a vantage point for spotting enemy ships.
In the late 17th century, the Round Tower was converted into a gunpowder magazine. It was later used as a guardroom and as a prison for captured French sailors during the Napoleonic Wars.
What to See at the Round Tower
The Round Tower is a popular tourist attraction in Portsmouth. Visitors can explore the tower’s history and learn about its role in the maritime history of the area. The tower is open to the public and offers guided tours.
The Round Tower offers stunning views of the Solent and the Isle of Wight. Visitors can also see the remains of the old dockyard and the city’s historic buildings.
What to Expect at the Round Tower
Visitors to the Round Tower can expect to learn about the tower’s history and its role in the maritime history of the area. The guided tours are a great way to learn about the tower’s history and to explore its many features.
Visitors can also expect to see stunning views of the Solent and the Isle of Wight, as well as the remains of the old dockyard and the city’s historic buildings.
Tours at the Round Tower
The Round Tower offers guided tours that explore the history of the tower and its role in the maritime history of the area. The tours last approximately one hour and are led by experienced guides.
Admission to the Round Tower
Admission to the Round Tower is free. However, there is a charge for the guided tours.
Tips for Tourists Visiting the Round Tower
- Wear comfortable shoes as the tower has many steps.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views.
- Visit the nearby Royal Naval Museum to learn more about the tower’s history.
- Take a guided tour to learn more about the tower’s history and its role in the maritime history of the area.
Practical Information
The Round Tower is located in Portsmouth, Hampshire. It is open to the public from 10am to 4pm every day. The guided tours last approximately one hour and are available from 11am to 3pm. Admission to the tower is free, but there is a charge for the guided tours.
