Then and now photos at the bottom of this post from past times at The Ship and Castle offers a quiet reminder of how much Portsmouth’s waterfront has changed, and how some places endure resilience regardless of the changing landscapes which surround them.
Historic photographs show water lapping close to where the pub now stands, long before the port infrastructure and reclaimed land reshaped this part of the city just 50 years ago. The setting may be very different, but The Ship and Castle remains a firmly rooted Portsmouth landmark.
Today, the pub sits beside reclaimed land next to the International Port, somewhat overshadowed by the looming industrial buildings which surround the pub and is easy to overlook at first glance. Despite this, it continues to stand proudly, retaining the character, warmth and sense of continuity that has made it a local favourite and for passengers crossing the English Channel and beyond.
The Ship and Castle has long been popular with visitors arriving and departing on continental ferries, particularly those seeking a proper pint and a glimpse of everyday local life. It remains a reliable recommendation for cruise passengers wanting something authentic and unpretentious, a place where the city feels lived in rather than staged.
Food here is simple, home-cooked and full of flavour. The pub is particularly well-known for its Sunday roasts, which are regarded by many as among the best in the city. These are served on the first Sunday of every month and booking is strongly advised.
Affordable, good quality pub food in a historic setting continues to define The Ship and Castle. It may no longer sit by the water’s edge, but its role as a welcoming, honest Portsmouth pub has never faded.
We have a taster event taking place on Saturday 24th January, where all food items will be half price. Booking is essential via the link below, a £5 fee is charged to help fund the filming equipment and editing time on the day to promote the business and capture your honest opinions of the food, however a lift to the venue is available as a token of my gratitude for joining me on the day. Here is the link:
Google Form Expression of Interest
The Ship and Castle can be found at 90 Rudmore Square, Portsmouth, PO2 8DR.
