Self Guided Haunted Walking Tour in Portsmouth APP/GPS/EMF Reader

Exploring Portsmouth’s Haunted Past: A Review of the Self-Guided Walking Tour

If you’re intrigued by ghost stories, spooky legends, or just love wandering historic streets, this self-guided haunted walking tour in Portsmouth might catch your eye. Designed to let you explore at your own pace, this app-based experience offers a chance to uncover Portsmouth’s darker side without the constraints of a group tour. It’s a convenient, budget-friendly way to add some chills to your trip—especially if you enjoy pacing yourself and discovering hidden stories on your own.

What we really like about it? First, the flexibility it offers—you can start, pause, and pick up the tour whenever you’re ready. Second, the knowledgeable audio descriptions make the experience engaging, painting vivid pictures of ghostly legends and historic landmarks. That said, a potential hiccup is that some users have had trouble with app connectivity or getting the tour started smoothly, which is worth considering if you’re not tech-savvy or visiting during busy times.

This tour seems best suited for those who enjoy a mix of history and ghost stories, don’t mind using their phones for navigation, and want to explore Portsmouth without a large crowd. If you’re comfortable with self-guided adventures and appreciate a bit of spooky storytelling, this could be a fun addition to your Portsmouth itinerary.

Key Points

• Flexible self-paced exploring means you control your time and stops.
• Audio storytelling brings haunted landmarks alive with spooky tales.
• Affordable price point offers good value for the duration and content.
• App-based experience requires a compatible device and some tech setup.
• Limited guide interaction means it’s less suited for those seeking a live guide.
• Not ideal for those with hearing or connectivity issues—some reviews mention app challenges.

What to Expect from the Portsmouth Haunted Tour

This tour is a digital journey through Portsmouth’s eerie past. For just $7.75 per person, you get access to a self-guided experience that lasts anywhere from 40 minutes to an hour, depending on how long you linger at each stop. The main selling point is that you’re in charge of the pace—you can stop to take photos, explore a building, or just listen to the stories without feeling rushed.

The tour kicks off at Ceres Bakery, where you’ll start the countdown to discovering Portsmouth’s haunted spots. You’ll stroll from landmark to landmark, guided by a GPS-triggered audio description. Your device will tell you when you’re near a site, such as historic buildings, burial grounds, old hotels, and famous houses, all with tales of ghosts, witches, and murderers.

The Stops in Detail

1. The 1814 Building
This site is believed to be haunted, and some say its ghosts are part of why the building changed hands more times than a sailor eats clam chowder. The intrigue here might be enough to spark your curiosity, especially if you love stories of restless spirits tied to old buildings.

2. The 1815 Brothel
Once a lively spot for more risqué activities, this building’s past is tinged with whispers of ghostly encounters. It’s a reminder that history often leaves behind more than just bricks and mortar.

3. The 1749 Site with Underground Tunnels
One of the city’s oldest structures, this site is fascinating because of its connection to secret tunnels that once linked Portsmouth’s buildings. It’s a cool historical tidbit with a ghostly twist—imagine the secrets hidden beneath your feet.

4. African Burying Ground Memorial
This site is dedicated to over 200 African Americans buried here, believed to be the largest of its kind in the US. It’s a somber, respectful stop that adds depth to the tour, reminding us that Portsmouth’s history involves stories of resilience as well as spirits.

5. The Rockingham Hotel
Built in 1785, this hotel hosted presidents like Roosevelt and JFK, and authors like Mark Twain. Its storied past lends itself well to ghostly legends—some say spirits still linger in its halls.

6. John Paul Jones House
A must-see for history buffs, this old house from 1758 is also home to more than a few ghost stories. Some say the spirit of John Paul Jones himself remains here, opening cabinets or slamming doors.

7. Historic Performers’ Venue
This place has hosted Houdini, Buffalo Bill Cody, and Twain. The ghosts of entertainers past seem to have decided to stay, adding a theatrical touch to the spooky tales.

8. Portsmouth Brewery
Ending your walk here is only fitting. Known for good drinks and burgers, the brewery is also said to be haunted by a playful, flirty ghost. It’s the perfect spot to relax after your ghostly exploration—and maybe catch a glimpse of the afterlife in action.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

What we love about this tour is how it puts you in charge. You set your own pace, take your time at each site, and enjoy the freedom to explore without a guide holding you up. The app’s GPS-triggered sound cues make navigation straightforward, and many reviews praise how easy it is to follow along once you get the hang of it. Plus, at $7.75, it’s pretty affordable compared to traditional guided tours, especially considering the amount of content and the flexibility.

However, some users have faced challenges, especially with app connectivity or starting the tour smoothly. A few reviews mention difficulty downloading or accessing the right tour, which might be frustrating for less tech-savvy travelers or those trying to get into the spirit during busy hours. Plus, for visitors who prefer a guided, personal storytelling experience, this self-guided format might feel a little impersonal.

The length is flexible, but most will find 40 minutes to an hour enough to get a good taste of Portsmouth’s haunted history. The stops are spread out enough to keep the walk interesting without feeling rushed, and you can pause at any time. The last stop at the Portsmouth Brewery offers a chance to unwind, enjoy a drink, and perhaps even spot a ghostly presence or two.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

When you consider its price, this tour offers good value—especially if you’re keen on exploring independently. You’re paying for convenience, flexibility, and content. The stories are engaging enough to keep your interest, and you’ll likely enjoy the blend of history and ghost tales. Plus, the ability to pause and resume makes it adaptable for any schedule or mood.

The reviews reinforce that many travelers find this a fun, informative way to see Portsmouth—some even caught “ghosts” on camera! Others appreciated how it allowed them to explore at their own speed, stopping to chat with friends or snap photos along the way.

Of course, it’s not a replacement for in-person tours, especially if you prefer live storytelling or guide interaction. But for an independent, budget-friendly experience that sparks curiosity and provides a spooky twist, it’s a solid choice.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This haunted walking tour is perfect for history buffs, ghost story lovers, and independent explorers. If you’re comfortable using your phone for navigation and audio, you’ll enjoy the autonomy it offers. It’s especially suited for those who want an affordable way to discover Portsmouth’s haunted legends without a big group or scheduled time.

It also works well for travelers who like to mix sightseeing with a touch of the supernatural, or those who prefer exploring at their own pace, stopping for a drink or a bite whenever they choose. Just keep in mind that some reviews mention app difficulties, so a bit of patience with technology might be needed.

While not designed specifically for families, it can be a fun outing for older children or teens interested in ghost stories and history—just make sure they’re comfortable with walking and using an app.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a flexible, reasonably priced way to uncover Portsmouth’s haunted sites and enjoy a mix of ghost stories and historic landmarks, this tour offers a lot of value. The ability to explore at your own pace, combined with engaging audio stories, makes it a fun experience for curious travelers. It’s low-pressure, easy to access, and packed with local lore that will give you a new appreciation for the city’s mysterious side.

However, be prepared for some tech hiccups and realize that this isn’t a guided tour with a live storyteller. If you’re looking for deep personal interaction or a highly structured experience, you might prefer a traditional tour. But if independence, flexibility, and a spooky twist sound appealing, this could be just the ticket for a memorable Portsmouth adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? This tour is mainly designed for those interested in ghost stories and history. Older children or teens who enjoy spooky tales and walking tours will find it entertaining, but it’s not specifically geared toward young kids.

How long does the tour take? You can expect anywhere from 40 minutes to an hour, depending on how long you spend at each stop and if you pause along the way.

Can I do this tour at night? While the tour can be enjoyed during the day, many ghost stories are more atmospheric at night. The app itself can be used anytime, but the experience might feel spookier after sunset.

What equipment do I need? A smartphone with GPS and internet access is essential. Earbuds are recommended for better audio clarity, especially in noisy areas.

Is the tour free? The main tour costs $7.75 per person. The African Burial Ground stop is free, but the app and audio guide require a purchase.

Can I pause and restart the tour? Yes, the app allows you to pause and resume at any time, making it flexible for breaks or sightseeing.

What if I have connectivity issues? Some users report challenges with app downloads or playing audio. It’s best to ensure your device is charged and your internet connection is stable before starting.

Is there a group option? This experience is designed for individual or small private use—only your group will participate in the tour.

Where does the tour start and end? It begins at Ceres Bakery and ends at the Portsmouth Brewery. Both locations are in the heart of Portsmouth, convenient for exploring or grabbing a bite afterward.

In the end, this self-guided haunted tour offers a practical, flexible way to get a ghostly glimpse into Portsmouth’s past. It’s perfect for independent explorers who appreciate a bit of history, storytelling, and spooky fun—all at a reasonable price.