Historical Tastings at the Iconic Rockingham
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Introducing a Memorable Portsmouth Tasting Experience surrounded by history and architectural treasures
For 90 minutes, immerse yourself in the story of a landmark that has stood since 1785. One bite at a time.
Guided by the charismatic duo, Cassandra and Andrew, you’ll uncover layers of history woven into the walls of this Portsmouth gem.
Savor curated wines from our collection, perfectly paired with gourmet bites from our five-star kitchen. Discover Rockingham's perfectly preserved architectural elegance, Meet the many historical figures who graced these rooms, Uncover its jazz-filled past, and perhaps even sense a whisper from its more spectral residents.
This isn’t just a tasting. It’s a journey through time—one sip, one story, one delicious moment at a time.
Perfect for foodies, wine lovers (over 21), and those who appreciate history and local experiences.
Great activity for rainy days on the Seacoast. Private tours available.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Wheelchairs accessible possible - but some parts of the tour are limited, and restrooms require 2 steps. Meet at the back of the building on Porterstreet
Restrooms available
We can accommodate dietary restrictions vegetarian, gluten-free. Please indicate special requirements at the time of booking.
Important Note: We only serve alcoholic drinks for travelers 21 years old and above. Minor travelers below 21 years old will be served non-alcoholic drinks
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
For 90 minutes taste the best of New Hampshire whilst immersed in the history and elegance of the old Rockingham Hotel. You’ll enjoy a selection of locally produced wines and spirits, paired with delicious appetizers from a five star fine-dining menu whilst touring through the history of an iconic building dating back to 1785. Presented by friendly local chefs, wine and history experts, journey through centuries of time with the building at the center of Portsmouth life, study the architecture, learn about it historic links to jazz, and the ghostly inhabitants. Perfect for foodies, wine lovers (over 21), and those who appreciate history and local experiences. Private tours available.
Sample Menu
starter
Legendary Wagyu Meatballs
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Collossal Shrimp
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Baked Brie
What‘s Included
Three tasting courses paired with locally crafted New Hampshire wines and spirits
Tour presented in English by a history tour guide working together with local wine & beverage expert
Enjoy 3 tasting courses from the restaurant’s fine dining appetizers, prepared by our Chef de Cuisine.
Gratuities
Options
Historical Tastings at the Iconic Rockingham
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
PRIVATE tour for up to 20
Private tour: You and up to 20 of your friends in a private tour. Select one adult only at checkout, this pays for the whole group.
Reviews
11 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Outstanding!
jimoG5695JK,Oct 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great experience, wine and food. The staff was incredible and very knowledgeable. We enjoyed our tour and it was fun as well as educational.
Team building outing
C8241HBeriks,Oct 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Awesome experience! Great explanations and discussions on the history! Delicious pairings made the food especially the wagyu meatball pop!
Fun Experience!
V5847LLgregm,Oct 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great experience - would do it again! The food and wine pairing was spot on. Good wine and excellent food prepared by a Food Network chef!! This was well worth the admission.
The wine was plentiful,...
Lisa P,Oct 1, 2025
- Review from Viator
4.00The wine was plentiful, the appetizers were good but one tiny bite. Doubling them would be appropriate. The Library restaurant is gorgeous and well worth a return trip.
We recommend this for anyone in Portsmouth.
Jane C,Sep 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great tasting wines and food pairings. The explanations were interesting. The building and restaurant are beautiful.
Worth the booking!
susanfE325QA,Sep 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a truly delightful experience at the Historical Tasting Tour at the Library Restaurant in Portsmouth. The generous pouring and flavors of wines were spectacular and food pairings made us realize how wine can accentuate the food flavors. The history of one of the most iconic buildings in Portsmouth provided a fascinating and engaging backdrop. It is worth the booking !
No whining about the Wine!
grandmajansd,Sep 8, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was a side adventure from our Cruise ship. We went to the Library Restaurant for the Tastings Tour. Not only were the wine tastings delicious and generous, food was involved as well! There was an appetizer pared with a crisp wine, an small entre with a richer, deeper wine, and finally a dessert with a sweet wine. Well worth the price! Afterwards, we could take pictures and walk around in the restaurant for a bit before returning to the Cruise ship. The dining room was set beautifully and the flowers were gorgeous. We enjoyed the experience and learned about wines as well.
Delicious bites for locals and visitors
Cheryl H,Sep 2, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A fantastic tour led by people who love the historic surroundings of their building and want to share it, plus the craft of the chef, with visitors. The bites were delicious and well paired with generous wine pours, the rooms of the restaurant were lovingly detailed during each pour/pairing which processed through the building, and plenty of time was given between courses to ask questions and enjoy the opulent settings. We enjoyed it so much that we’re going back for dinner tomorrow night!
Wine tasting wins my award for Best Portsmouth experience!
Sightsee670510,Aug 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Paul from Flaghill Winery gave a lively presentation about his wines. He explained why each wine was paired with certain hors d’oeuvres for our tastings. I enjoyed learning about how the climate allows for growing unique varietal grapes, and how they are used in crafting very interesting wines. The chef prepared really excellent selections that complemented these wines. A wonderful experience!
Don't miss this gem!
dianasC2889OQ,Aug 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This Library Restaurant is outstanding! I must go back to try the specials on the menu. We had excellent wine pairings from a local vineyard. Loved the history of the hotel. One of the highlights of my trip .
From US$80.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
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