Portland Castle Castles
The history of this fortress, which overlooks Portland harbour, is diverse and fascinating. Built by Henry VIII to defend Weymouth against possible French and Spanish invasion, its squat appearance is typical of the artillery forts built in the early 1540s.
Unusually for a fortress of this period, the castle has survived largely unaltered. It first witnessed serious fighting during the Civil War, when it was seized by both Parliamentarians and Royalists. It became a Seaplane Station during World War I, and was in the forefront of the D-Day preparations which helped to end World War II.
The Governor's Garden, designed by Christopher Bradley-Hole as part of the Contemporary Heritage Garden series, contains an impressive circular amphitheatre made from local Portland stone, with two-level seating for about 200 people. This perfectly sheltered spot is a great place to relax and enjoy the dramatic sea and harbour views.
Portland Castle offers accessibility for all - there are audio tours and a Touch Tour for the visually impaired. You can even come face-to-face with Henry VIII in the Great Hall. When you need a break, the recently refurbished tearoom is the ideal place for a light lunch or a cup of tea .
Attraction Details
For enquiries about Portland Castle, please contact the attraction using the details below.
AddressCastleton, Dorset, Portland, Dorset, DT5 1AZ
Opening times10am - 5pm
Entry costs
Attraction typeCastles
Hotels near Portland Castle
Staying overnight in Portland?
Wondering where to stay that's close to Portland Castle? We've teamed up with Booking.com to provide the best room rates for hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs near Portland in Portland.
Portland Marina View Penthouse
Portland Marina View Penthouse Apartment offers accommodation in Portland. The property is 1.8 km from Portland Harbour and free private parking is offered.
The Aqua
Situated on Castletown Beach and surrounded by the ocean, The Aqua offers modern bedrooms with sea views, free Wi-Fi, free parking, a restaurant, a café and a bar. The bedrooms are modern and have a bathroom with a bath and a shower..
YHA Portland
Formerly a Royal Navy Admirals home, this Edwardian building boasts spectacular views over Portland harbour and Lyme Bay. YHA Portland also provides a communal kitchen, a TV lounge and free parking..
Seapinks Cottage
Seapinks Cottage is just 200 metres from the beautiful Portland Beach, on the West Dorset Heritage Coast. This charming cottage opens onto a patio. The house offers lovely, stylish interiors finished with cream-coloured and floral tones.
Chesil View House
Located in Fortuneswell, Chesil View House offers self-catering accommodation with free WiFi access. Dating back to 1890, the quiet property is just 5 minutes walk from the South West Coast Path, which runs alongside Chesil Beach..
Heights Hotel
Set on the summit of Portland near Weymouth, Heights Hotel has stunning views over Chesil Beach, Lyme Bay and Portland Harbour. Free private parking is provided..
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