Castle Street & Old Village

Historic village core with castle, medieval lanes and listed buildings

The historic heart of Portchester, centred on Castle Street, which runs south from the entrance to Portchester Castle. This is the oldest part of the settlement, with buildings dating back several centuries lining the narrow street. The Norman church of St Mary sits within the castle walls, and the area around it retains a strongly rural, village feel that is quite distinct from the rest of Portchester. Castle Street itself has a handful of listed buildings and a sense of enclosure, with the massive Roman walls of the castle looming at its northern end. The old village extends east along parts of West Street and south towards the crossroads. Many of the houses here are Victorian or earlier, built in local stone or rendered brick, and the street pattern follows medieval lanes. It is the part of Portchester most popular with visitors, who park here to walk to the castle and along the waterfront. The Red Lion pub, one of the oldest in the area, stands near the castle entrance and has served travellers for centuries.