Welcome to Portsmouth! The English metropolis I now name house. It is a vibrant place to be, filled with vigorous points of interest, historic wonders and that pretty seaside appeal. From naval museums to lovely waterfront promenades, this coastal gem has loads to maintain you entertained. Let me take you thru the most effective issues to do in Portsmouth and the place to search out them.
I’ve lived in Portsmouth since 2017 – I truly cannot consider it has been so lengthy. It has been occurring longer than I’ve lived in London – stunning!
I undoubtedly obtained to know town and the realm effectively in that point, with the entire lockdown and every little thing. I do know precisely what to do in Portsmouth, so listed below are the most effective Portsmouth points of interest to maintain you entertained when you’re right here.
From cool cafes and bookstores, to nationally famend museums and all of the enjoyable at sea, here is what to plan in your Portsmouth itinerary for some good instances forward.
All the most effective issues in Portsmouth
1. Take a stroll alongside Southsea Promenade
Begin your leisurely journey with a leisurely stroll alongside Southsea Promenade, a beautiful stretch overlooking the (often) blue Solent. Really feel the light sea breeze caress your face as you stroll previous vigorous seashore huts, inviting cafes, quaint meals stalls and charming gardens.
Take a second to pause on the nostalgic South Parade pier, having fun with the sight and sound of waves lapping on the wood construction. Seize an ice cream spinner from the Ice Cream Emporium and revel in a style as you wander the dock, or just discover a serene spot to take a seat and watch the world go by.
The promenade is without doubt one of the many causes I like residing in Southsea. For those who’re visiting Portsmouth, it is a must-see!
There’s loads of parking on the waterfront or park round Canoe Lake for just a few free hours.
2. Calm down on Southsea Seashore
Do you wish to absorb some solar and sea environment? Look no additional than Southsea Seashore!
Take a dip within the invigorating water, carry one thing mushy to lie on the shingle within the solar, or just park on the boardwalk and watch all of it unfold. Southsea Seashore is certainly among the finest issues to do in Portsmouth.
It is an amazing place to observe your paddleboarding abilities – if the climate and situations are good!
Test it out, this video I made will take you thru every little thing you have to find out about Southsea Seashore…
See my information to Southsea Seashore for extra info on what to do when you get there. It is a should do in Southsea.
a visit to Portsmouth
Getting round Portsmouth
First Bus lately spent greater than £28 million on a fleet of 62 zero-emission electrical buses. These buses imply cleaner air and quieter streets for native residents, and supply passengers a extra comfy and handy experience. On board they’re geared up with USB chargers, on-screen and audio bulletins and the newest accessibility design.
Buses are on route 1 from Gunwharf to Southsea, and three from Fareham to Southsea, in addition to the 9/9A, X4, X5 and the Eclipse speedy transit bus.
You’ll be able to pay within the automobile utilizing the First Bus app. Take the bus in Portsmouth and you’ll keep away from the inconvenience of driving in metropolis visitors and parking.
3. Drink alongside Albert Highway
I am going to take you on a stroll down Albert Highway right here, to spotlight the most effective locations to eat, drink and see. However briefly, Porters pub is a favourite for its Mexican providing, Offbeet for its vegetarian choices, and Southsea Spirit for its spicy Margarita.
It is one of many quirkiest streets within the UK and filled with unbiased individuals – now we have to assist them!
4. Hang around at Southsea Fortress
Southsea Fortress, down by Southsea Seashore, belonged to Henry VIII and is now open to the general public at no cost. Climb to the highest and you will get an amazing view of the Isle of Wight. Downstairs you will discover an amazing little cafe that is the proper spot for a snack on a sunny day.
5. Calm down on Clarence Pier
Iconic amusement park Clarence Pier might be a find it irresistible or hate it scenario. There are a number of rides down there, many arcades, and now an the other way up home. Brewer’s Fayre affords nice pub food and drinks together with a lightweight recreation – all-you-can-eat breakfast too!
6. Calm down in Victoria Park
Escape from metropolis life and discover peace within the serene oasis of Victoria Park. Positioned within the coronary heart of Portsmouth, this superbly landscaped park affords a peaceable haven for nature lovers and weary souls alike.
You’ll be able to take a leisurely stroll among the many flower-filled borders, loosen up on a shaded bench with a superb ebook, or loosen up on the spacious lawns whereas having fun with an exquisite picnic.
There’s a nice playground there for the over 4 12 months olds, and the final time I wandered it regarded like they have been constructing some form of playground for toddlers too. The brand new aviary within the middle must be prepared any day now.
There’s additionally an amazing little cafe there, and all of the income go to the homeless in Portsmouth. Fantastic desserts!
7. Eat en route round Palmerston Highway, Southsea
Leisure in Southsea is the third seashore (which is roofed), the third Southsea Frequent (go for a picnic on it) and the third wonderful indie outlets, cafes and eating places. There are nice locations to hang around with a drink right here.
My present favorites embody The Clubhouse and Meat and Barrel, however yow will discover the most effective eating places in Southsea right here.
8. Eat and store at Gunwharf Quays
For an informal lunch or dinner, head to Gunwharf Quays. This vibrant waterfront vacation spot affords all types of foodie feasts, with all of the chain eating places you may want for. Latest additions embody Faucet&Tandoor and Banana Tree.
It is a low cost retailer so anticipate a mixture of upscale and luxurious shops with decrease costs. Private favorites embody French Connection and Vans store. Oh, the decide n combine on the Lindt store is fairly particular too.
9. Hit Heights close to Spinnaker Tower
Climb the enduring Spinnaker Tower and brace your self for panoramic vistas overlooking the Solent, the Isle of Wight and town beneath. When you attain the highest, the Sky Backyard Cafe affords desserts, espresso and afternoon tea suspended 100 meters above sea stage.
You can too take a look at the glass ground and check your nerves by strolling on it. It makes my abdomen flip, particularly when Reggie does it!
10. Uncover the hidden historical past of Portsmouth
Portsmouth is steeped in a wealthy maritime historical past and its hidden gems present an interesting glimpse into the previous.
– Dive deep into historical past on the D-Day Tales museum, the place fascinating displays take you again to the dramatic occasions of World Battle II.
– Delve into the life and works of acclaimed creator Charles Dickens on the Charles Dickens Birthplace Museum, tucked away in charming previous Portsmouth.
– Go to Portsmouth Museum and Artwork Gallery for the newest exhibitions showcasing the most effective of town.
“No Place Like Pompey explores what’s particular in regards to the UK’s solely island metropolis, whereas Portsmouth at Play celebrates the myriad methods by which leisure habits have modified through the years. There’s additionally Soccer within the Metropolis, which talks in regards to the significance of Portsmouth FC to lots of the metropolis’s residents, and The Portsmouth Story – which affords an perception into household life via the ages.”
– Portsmouth Museum and Artwork Gallery
These hidden historic gems supply a soothing alternative to immerse your self within the tales and legends which have formed Portsmouth.
11. Go to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
Put together to sail historic seas as you set foot in historic Portsmouth Dockyard. Immerse your self within the fascinating tales of naval battles, discover the magnificent HMS Victory and stand on the very spot the place Admiral Nelson was killed. Board HMS Warrior, the world’s first iron-hulled armored battleship, and discover the unimaginable inside.
You can too unleash your interior pirate by visiting the interactive Pirate Ship Expertise, the place you possibly can seek for hidden treasure and stroll the plank in fashion.
There’s additionally an amazing little cafe that serves quite a lot of lunchtime snacks, together with a unusual museum. Additionally, classic arcade video games that may shock you galore. And after I say amazed, I imply how know-how and leisure have superior a lot!
12. The glow of the sundown on Portsdown Hill
Head to Portsdown Hill, a peaceable spot with panoramic views of Portsmouth and its environment.
Discover a comfy spot and watch in awe because the solar slowly units beneath the horizon. For those who’re fortunate, you will see the sky change with vibrant shades of orange and pink. I’ve seen some epic sundown pictures right here, although I’ve by no means been fortunate sufficient to witness one.
You’ll be able to stroll right here (a mission, however enjoyable) or simply drive to the car parking zone. See if yow will discover Mick’s Monster Burgers – he is a little bit of a legend round these elements. It will get actually busy up right here when any fireworks go off, however the environment is nice.
What to do in Portsmouth
Has it enlightened you on a number of the nice issues to do in Portsmouth? With its coastal appeal, relaxed vibes and hidden treasures I actually 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 would not have stayed right here for SEVEN years if I did not consider it!