URPoint Details
The name is derived from its former Latin name Portus Adurni and the Old English suffix ceaster ("fort; fortified town). The fort of Portus Adurni is considered the best-preserved Roman fort north of the Alps It is sometimes identified as the Cair Peris listed by the 9th-century History of the Britons as among the 28 cities of Britain The mediaeval Portchester Castle was built within the Roman fort.
Portchester has grown up around the approaches to the Castle, on the Northern shores of Portsmouth Harbour. It stretches to the lower slopes of Portsdown Hill, from where there are excellent views across the town and harbour to the Isle of Wight. The conservation area of Castle Street leads from the A27 to the Castle, which is an impressive example of a Roman fort with Norman keep, medieval castle and a Norman priory church within its walls.
In 1133 a priory was founded by the Augustinians but only after a few years decided to move, and little remains.
Location: 2m east of Fareham and 6 km (4 mi) northwest of Portsmouth
- Type:
- Landmark