Portsmouth's architectural marvels

Portsmouth is a city steeped in centuries of history - from its days as a bustling Tudor port, the bombast of the Victorian era, all the way through to the present day. This post, courtesy of Tiles Direct, will showcase some monuments to this rich history, through the architecture that tells its story.

The Ernest Smith Clock Tower

Wandering the genteel streets of Southsea, you might be forgiven for thinking that the clock tower on the corner of Castle Road and Great Southsea Street is a Tudor-era treasure. However, this is not the case - as it was built in 1903 in a mock-Tudor style. Indeed, if you look on the tower’s eastern side, you’ll be able to see the true date of completion.

The tower’s name derives from its first landlord, cabinet maker Ernest Smith. Over the years, the building became one of the first car showrooms on the south coast, survived the Blitz and is currently a hairdressers.

Old Portsmouth Hotwalls

From ersatz history to the real deal, the Old Portsmouth Hotwalls are a reminder of the city’s intrinsic link to the Armed Forces. The first permanent defences were erected on this site in 1418 and, over time, the walls grew into an artillery barracks, used heavily during the Crimean War and throughout the Victorian era.

Today, the Hotwalls has been refurbished into a trendy arts space, home to sculptors, painters and ceramic manufacturers. You can grab a bite to eat at the Canteen and appreciate the tough red brickwork arches that were once a hive of military activity.

Southsea Castle

Carrying on in the defence tradition, Southsea Castle is another hulking example of Tudor-era strength. Built by Henry VIII to repel invaders, it now attracts tourists keen to get a feel for the tactical position of the castle, with its panoramic views of the Solent and the Isle of Wight beyond.

Visitors today can expect a much more welcoming experience than the invaders of the past, with an on-site microbrewery and a champagne evening every summertime Friday night among the castle’s catalogue of events and features.

Spinnaker Tower

Taking things right up to the present day, the Spinnaker Tower is undoubtedly the symbol of modern Portsmouth. Initially planned to mark the turning of the Millenium, the tower was finally opened in 2005, and takes its name from a type of sail commonly seen in the watersport hotspot that is the Solent. Over 100m high, the tower boasts impressive views - of which castle defenders of old would be positively envious.

A trip into Portsmouth isn’t complete without scaling this sure-fire architectural essential and taking in the view of the city, the South Downs to the north and the Isle of Wight to the south.

The Mary Rose Museum

Where modern architectural and technological advancement meets the preserved wreck of Henry VIII’s favourite ship; the Mary Rose Museum is another essential for anyone seeking to check out some architecture inspired by the city’s past. The stained black exterior is meant to echo traditional English boat sheds, while the imposing shape evokes the proud record of the ship's service in various wars.

Inside, the wreck (which spent 437 years at the bottom of the Solent before being recovered in 1982) is preserved using cutting-edge climate control technology and has swiftly become one of Portsmouth’s many must-see attractions.

Of course, this list isn’t exhaustive. Set aside an afternoon to stroll around Portsmouth and Southsea and you’re sure to see a bevy of historic architectural charms for yourself!