Millennium Promenade - King James' Gate

The stonework on which you are standing formed part of the original Point Gate, which gave access from the Old Town to Point. In 1687 it was strengthened and enlarged as King James’ Gate. Beyond its outer face, a drawbridge crossed a moat. The moat was filled in during the mid-19th century and the gate was taken down about 1865.

King James’ Gate stood across Broad Street. The site of the moat on the Point side is now shown by the bridge which carries the promenade along the nearby ramparts. Demolished shortly after 1860 the façade can still be seen on Burnaby Road.

The original buildings on the west side of Broad Street were demolished in 1847 when Point Barracks were erected in the area below.

To the left is a Sallyport and to the left of that is where the moat would have been in front of King James’ Gate.

Portsmouth Cathedral

Portsmouth's beautiful Anglican cathedral is just a two-minute walk away from King James' Gate. Set in the heart of historic Old Portsmouth, the cathedral was founded in 1185. Explore its glorious chapel and nave, with its huge arches, pillars and immense feeling of space.

Attacked by the French in 1337 and damaged by cannon fire in the Civil War, Portsmouth Cathedral has a unique and dramatic history, reflecting its close association with the sea. The focal point of a seafaring community, the cathedral is a building of simple and enduring beauty.

Go back to the Millennium Promenade page.