12 Greatest Issues to Do in Portsmouth (UK!)

Welcome to Portsmouth! The English metropolis I now name residence. It’s a vibrant place to be, bursting with full of life points of interest, historic wonders, and that pleasant seaside appeal. From naval museums to an exquisite waterfront wander, this coastal gem has lots to entertain you. Let me take you thru one of the best issues to do in Portsmouth, and the place to search out them.

I’ve lived in Portsmouth since 2017 – can’t really imagine it’s been that lengthy. Coming as much as longer than I lived in London – shocker!

I’ve positively obtained to know town and space effectively in that point, what with the entire lockdown and every part. I do know precisely what to do in Portsmouth, so listed here are one of the best Portsmouth points of interest to maintain you entertained when you’re right here.

From cool cafes and bookshops, to nationally famend museums, and all of the enjoyable of the seaside that is what to plan into your Portsmouth itinerary for some good instances forward.

All of the Greatest Issues to Do in Portsmouth

1. Stroll alongside Southsea Promenade

Start your relaxed journey by leisurely strolling alongside Southsea Promenade, a pleasant stretch overlooking the (sometimes) azure waters of the Solent. Really feel the mild sea breeze caress your face as you amble previous vibrant seashore huts, inviting cafes, the odd meals stand, and charming gardens.

Take a second to pause on the nostalgic South Parade Pier, basking within the views and the sound of waves lapping in opposition to the picket construction. Seize a swirly ice cream from the Ice Cream Emporium and benefit from the style as you wander around the pier, or just discover a serene spot to sit down and watch the world go by.

The promenade is without doubt one of the many causes I really like dwelling in Southsea. When you’re visiting Portsmouth, it’s best to positively test it out!

There’s a great deal of parking on the seafront, or park round Canoe Lake for a number of hours of freebie.

2. Chill out on Southsea Seashore

Need to absorb some solar and seaside vibes? Look no additional than Southsea Seashore!

Take a dip within the bracing waters, carry one thing comfortable to lie on the shingles within the solar, or simply park your self on the promenade to observe all of it unfurl. Southsea Seashore is certainly among the finest issues to do in Portsmouth.

It’s an incredible place to observe your sea paddle boarding expertise – if the climate and situations are proper!

Look, this video I made will take you thru every part you want to learn about Southsea Seashore…

Try my Southsea Seashore Information for extra on what to do if you get there. It’s a should do in Southsea.

journey in portsmouth

Getting round Portsmouth

First Bus have just lately spent over £28 million on a fleet of 62 zero emissions electrical buses. These buses imply cleaner air and quieter streets for the locals, and provide passengers a smoother, extra comfy trip. On board they’re fitted with USB charging factors, on display and audio bulletins, and the most recent in accessibility design.

The buses are on route number one from Gunwharf to Southsea, and three from Fareham to Southsea, in addition to 9/9A, X4, X5 and the Eclipse fast transit bus too.

You’ll be able to pay on board utilizing the First Bus app. Take the bus in Portsmouth and you’ll keep away from the faff of driving in metropolis centre site visitors, and the parking.

3. Drink alongside Albert Street

I’ll take you for a stroll alongside Albert Street right here, to spotlight one of the best locations to eat, drink and see. However in brief, Porters pub is a favorite for its Mexican choices, Offbeet for the veggie choices, and Southsea Spirit for a Spicy Magarita.

It’s one of many quirkiest streets within the UK, and filled with independents – we’ve got to help them!

4. Hang around at Southsea Fort

Southsea Fort, down by Southsea Seashore, belonged to Henry VIII, and is now open for a free looksee. Climb as much as the highest and also you’ll get nice views over to the Isle of Wight. Downstairs you’ll discover a fab little cafe which makes for an ideal brunch spot on a sunny day.

5. Sit back on Clarence Pier

Clarence Pier’s iconic amusement park could possibly be a little bit of a love or hate scenario. There are a number of rides down there, loads of arcades and now, an the wrong way up home too. The Brewer’s Fayre affords nice priced foods and drinks in a pub with a comfortable play – additionally, an all-you-can-eat breakfast!

6. Unwind in Victoria Park

Escape metropolis life and discover tranquility within the serene oasis of Victoria Park. Nestled within the coronary heart of Portsmouth, this superbly landscaped park affords a peaceable retreat for nature lovers and weary souls alike.

You’ll be able to take a leisurely stroll amidst flower-filled borders, loosen up on a shaded bench with e-book, or sit back on the expansive lawns whereas having fun with a pleasant picnic.

There’s an incredible playground in there for over 4s, and final time I used to be wandering by it appeared like they have been constructing some kind of playground for toddlers too. The brand new aviary within the centre ought to be completed any day now.

There’s additionally an incredible little cafe in there, and all earnings go to homeless folks in Portsmouth. Pretty desserts!

7. Eat your method round Palmerston Street, Southsea

Southsea leisure is a 3rd seashore (coated that), a 3rd Southsea Frequent (go picnic on it) and a 3rd the good indie retailers, espresso retailers and eating places. There are some nice locations to hang around with a brew right here.

My present faves embrace The Clubhouse and Meat and Barrel, however you may discover one of the best eating places in Southsea right here.

8. Eat and store at Gunwharf Quays

For a leisurely lunch or dinner, head to Gunwharf Quays. This vibrant waterfront vacation spot affords all types of feasts for foodies, with all of the chain eating places you would ever need. The newest additions embrace Faucet&Tandoor and Banana Tree.

It’s a reduction purchasing outlet so count on a mixture of high-end and high-street retailers with their costs slashed. Private favourites embrace French Connection and the Vans store. Oh and the pik n combine within the Lindt store is fairly particular too.

9. Hit the Heights on the Spinnaker Tower

Ascend the long-lasting Spinnaker Tower and brace your self for panoramic vistas overlooking the Solent, the Isle of Wight, and town beneath. When you’re up there the Sky Backyard Cafe affords desserts, espresso and afternoon tea suspended 100 metres above sea degree.

You may also take a look at the glass flooring and check your nerves attempting to stroll throughout it. It makes my abdomen flip, particularly when Reggie does it!

10. Uncover Portsmouth’s hidden historical past

Portsmouth is steeped in wealthy maritime historical past, and its hidden gems present a captivating glimpse into the previous.

– Dive deep into historical past on the D-Day Story museum, the place partaking reveals transport you again to the dramatic occasions of World Battle II.

– Delve into the life and works of acclaimed writer Charles Dickens on the Charles Dickens’ Birthplace Museum, tucked away within the charming Previous Portsmouth.

– Go to Portsmouth Museum and Artwork Gallery for the most recent exhibitions displaying off one of the best of town.

“No Place Like Pompey explores what’s particular in regards to the UK’s solely island metropolis, while Portsmouth at Play celebrates the myriad methods wherein leisure habits have modified through the years. There’s additionally Soccer within the Metropolis, protecting Portsmouth FC’s significance to many metropolis residents, and The Story of Portsmouth – which affords a glimpse into residence lives by the ages.”

– Portsmouth Museum and Artwork Gallery

These hidden historic gems provide a calming alternative to immerse your self within the tales and legends that formed Portsmouth.

11. Go to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

Get able to set sail on historic seas as you step foot within the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Immerse your self in fascinating tales of naval battles, discover the magnificent HMS Victory and stand on the very spot the place Admiral Nelson was shot. Step aboard the HMS Warrior, the world’s first iron-hulled, armoured battleship, and discover the unimaginable inside.

You may also unleash your inside pirate with a go to to the interactive Pirate Ship Expertise, the place you may seek for hidden treasure and stroll the plank in fashion.

There’s additionally an incredible little cafe in right here serving a variety of lunch time snacks, alongside a unusual museum. Additionally, classic arcade video games to be amazed by aplenty. And after I say amazed, I imply, how tech and leisure has come alongside a lot!

12. Sundown Splendor at Portsdown Hill

Make your option to Portsdown Hill, a tranquil spot that gives panoramic views over Portsmouth and its environment.

Discover a cozy perch and watch in awe because the solar slowly dips beneath the horizon. When you’re fortunate you’ll see the sky change with vibrant hues of orange and pink. I’ve seen some epic photographs of the sunsets right here, though by no means been fortunate sufficient to witness one myself.

You’ll be able to both stroll up right here (mission, however enjoyable) or simply drive to the automobile park. See if yow will discover Mick’s Monster Burgers – he’s a little bit of a legend round these elements. It will get very busy up right here when there’s any kind of fireworks on, however it’s an incredible environment.

What to do in Portsmouth

Has that enlightened your thoughts to a number of the nice issues to do in Portsmouth? With its coastal appeal, relaxed vibes, and hidden treasures I actually do suppose Portsmouth is without doubt one of the most underrated cities within the UK.

I hope you’ll come and go to us for an evening or 4. On a sunny day there’s nowhere higher.

I wouldn’t have stayed right here for SEVEN years if I didn’t imagine it!