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Photo: Geni, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Built in 1544, the castle was part of a series of fortifications constructed by Henry VIII around England's coasts to protect the country from invaders. Heavily modified due to being in use until the end of World War II. Contains a rather random selection of cannon that have ended up in the collection of Portsmouth city council over the years. Has a small temporary exhibit with a permanent exhibit in the keep.
Southsea Castle, historically also known as Chaderton Castle, South Castle and Portsea Castle, is an artillery fort originally constructed by Henry VIII on Portsea Island, Hampshire, in 1544. It formed part of the King's Device programme to protect against invasion from France and the Holy Roman Empire, and defended the Solent and the eastern approach to Portsmouth. The castle had a square central keep, two rectangular gun platforms to the east and west, and two angled bastions to the front and rear, and was an early English example of the trace italienne-style of fortification popular on the Continent. The Cowdray engraving of the Battle of the Solent in 1545 depicted Henry VIII visiting the castle. Despite several serious fires, it remained in service and saw brief action at the start of the English Civil War in 1642 when it was stormed by Parliamentary forces.
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Listen to live music here every Sunday in the summer.
formerly D-Day Museum
Tells the story of Operation Overlord during the Normandy D-Day landings including the Overlord Embroidery. Has an original LCT (landing craft tank) used at D-Day that has been restored and accessed by visitors.
Take an undersea safari at the aquarium on the seafront.