Portsmouth: Best Attractions and Charms of the Historic Seaside City
Situated on the southern coast of England with vast beaches and old town walls lies Portsmouth, an historic city with tons to offer. Whether it’s naval history at the Historic Dockyard, explorations around the engaging Portsmouth Harbour, or a cultural journey through old Portsmouth and its city walls, this guide will navigate you through the city’s most captivating must-see destinations.
Exploring the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
The Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is a treasure trove of naval history and a living testament to Portsmouth’s maritime past. Located within the Portsmouth Harbour, this small slice of the waterfront houses iconic ships like the HMS Victory, renowned for its role in the 1805 Battle of Trafalgar, the iron-hulled HMS Warrior, and the Mary Rose, Henry VIII’s favorite ship.
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The dockyard doesn’t just stop with great historic ships. It is also home to the National Museum of the Royal Navy, a famous museum established in 1911 that illustrates Portsmouth's maritime heritage. The National Museum of the Royal Navy narrates the history of British warships, including the fascinating museum ship exhibits at the Royal Dockyard, previously known as Portsmouth Dockyard.
If you’re interested in delving more into the dockyard’s past, you’ll find enriching educational experiences at the Victory Gallery and Boathouse 4, as well as the Dockyard Apprentice exhibition, which documents life at the old dockyard.
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Visitors can explore the entire dockyard with an Ultimate Explorer ticket. This provides access to all the attractions within the historic dockyard. Tickets with access to one attraction or three attractions are also available if you don't have time to explore the entire dockyard. This is great if you just want to see parts of the dockyard, not the whole collection of sights. You can find tickets online through the National Museum of the Royal Navy website.
The Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is the gateway to Portsmouth’s illustrious past and should not be missed by anyone interested in the history of Portsmouth and general British maritime history.
Navigating Portsmouth Harbour and Beyond
Portsmouth Harbour is more than just a picturesque waterfront. It’s a bustling gateway to the English Channel, playing a pivotal role for commercial and military vessels. The previously mentioned Portsmouth Dockyard is just a small part of the harbour.
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Not just limited to the UK, the harbor extends its reach into Europe, offering a variety of cruises to destinations like Portugal, Croatia, and Norway. Travelers can also take ferries from Portsmouth to several destinations in France, such as:
Caen
Cherbourg
Le Havre
St Malo
The routes also extend into Spain, allowing direct ferry services to the Spanish cities of Bilbao and Santander.
However, Portsmouth Harbour’s reach isn’t limited to mainland Europe. It also facilitates ferry services to the scenic Channel Islands, providing routes to Guernsey and Jersey, both known as island city destinations.
As the UK ferry port with the most ferry routes on offer, Portsmouth International Port stands as an important hub for both commercial and tourist maritime travel. Whether you’re heading out to explore Europe or just want to enjoy the bustling atmosphere, Portsmouth Harbour is a destination in itself.
The Ancient Southsea Castle and Seafront
Beyond the Portsmouth Harbour, built upon the seafront, lies the Southsea Castle. This beautiful medieval castle first rose from the ground in 1544, upon the orders of King Henry VIII. It was built as a defensive fort to defend against continental threats. Today, it sits proudly along the waterfront as an iconic symbol of Portsmouth’s historical coastal defense.
Southsea Castle during sunset
The Southsea Castle has been witness to the ravages of a catastrophic fire, the turmoil of the English Civil War, and even a period of reinvention where it served as a military prison. It became a public heritage site after its military service, and today it stands as a great place for visitors to get a glimpse of historic Portsmouth.
The Eastney Esplande - Southsea Seafront
Beyond the stoic walls of Southsea Castle lies the Eastney Esplande, also known as the Southsea Seafront. This area is a unique blend of leisure and entertainment that complements the historical beauty of the nearby ancient castle.
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Here, you can choose from an abundance of leisure activities and museums. There are a great variety of things to do in this area of Portsmouth, like drifting on a boat through the waters of Canoe Lake and relaxing at the Japanese garden. Educational experiences like the Southsea Model Village offer miniature landscapes, and you can learn about natural history at the Cumberland House Natural History Museum.
The Southsea Parade Pier and Southsea Beach are also popular destinations in the area and are great for enjoying the waterfront on a warm summer day or catching some sea breeze during your sightseeing.
This area has a variety of things to do, and although they are not all must see destinations, picking one or two of these sites might be a great way to enjoy your free time in Portsmouth.
A Stroll Through Old Portsmouth and the City Walls
Old Portsmouth is a quaint corner of the city, within walking distance of Southsea Castle. It is a beautiful area, with cobblestoned streets and the Portsmouth Old City Walls. This history buff's paradise is where time has stood still and the Old Portsmouth of hundreds of years ago can be appreciated.
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There are many significant historic sites and landmarks that can be mostly enjoyed for free by walking the streets and walls. Some of the must-see locations in Old Portsmouth are:
The Portsmouth Anglican Cathedral, which dates back to 1185.
The Round Tower, an 18-gun battery turned art gallery and cafe, offers harbor views and is a piece of history in itself.
The Square Tower, which has served multiple purposes through time, now stands as a wedding venue and art space.
The Point, known for its historical trade of Caribbean spices at Spice Island, provides stunning views and retains the remains of early defenses, alongside atmospheric pubs.
King James’s Gate comprises two ornamental defense arches built in 1687 and 1760, part of the fortifications for Portsmouth Harbour.
The Royal Garrison Church, although damaged by firebombs during World War II, is a unique, roofless nave that attracts many visitors.
There’s more to Old Portsmouth than just historical landmarks. The area also hosts a variety of traditional pubs and tea rooms, which contribute to its unique historical allure.
Sunset view taken from the Old City walls
A stroll through Old Portsmouth is like stepping back in time and immersing yourself in the city’s rich history. I highly recommend it for anyone who enjoys history and architecture.
Enjoy the Cultural Centre at Guildhall Square
Guildhall Square is the dynamic center of Portsmouth’s cultural scene, engaging both locals and visitors with its lively atmosphere.
The highlights of Guildhall Square are its restaurants, bars, nightlife, and entertainment venues. Although Guildhall Square functions as a bustling urban area, it also houses the Portsmouth City Council, Portsmouth Guildhall, and the Portsmouth Civic Centre. This means it is undoubtedly the cultural hub of the city, where arts and architecture meet a modern urban lifestyle.
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This area is packed with things to do, and one of the most famous entertainment venues is the nearby Wedgewood Rooms. It's a venue that hosts a variety of national and international live acts in music and comedy, offering a rich cultural experience to visitors.
The Guildhall Square promises a cultural beat that resonates with all, whether you’re seeking an evening filled with laughter, a musical night, or even just a walk amongst the lively ambience.
Shopping and Leisure at Gunwharf Quays
Gunwharf Quays is a destination for those seeking a blend of shopping, dining, and leisure activities. Home to over 95 designer shopping outlets and exquisite dining with celebrity chefs like Raymond Blanc, the quays are conveniently located next to the seafront and the Spinnaker Tower.
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The complex houses a variety of leisure options, including:
the latest films at the Vue 14-screen multiplex cinema
bowling at the Hollywood Bowl
contemporary artistic events at the Aspex Gallery
a chance to relax or turn the excitement up at the Grosvenor Casino.
Spinnaker Tower
For those interested in Portsmouth’s history and stunning sea views, Harbour Tours from Gunwharf Quays provide insightful commentary on the Royal Navy ships, the Historic Dockyard, and the city skyline. From shopping sprees and fine dining experiences to leisure activities, Gunwharf Quays caters to a wide range of preferences.
Portsmouth's Panoramic Views: Spinnaker Tower
Perched above the vibrant cityscape along the waterfront of the Gunwharf Quays is the Spinnaker Tower, a soaring tribute to Portsmouth's beautiful maritime heritage. This striking structure defines the skyline of Portsmouth, inviting visitors to ascend and witness the city from above. Spinnaker Tower is the best viewpoint in Portsmouth, and the vast expanse of the Solent is an extraordinary perspective.
View of the Spinnaker Tower during sunset
For an indulgent twist, the High Tea Experience at The Clouds on View Deck 2 pairs traditional afternoon tea with the stunning backdrop of the sea and city below. The journey continues on View Deck 3's open-air Sky Deck, where you can enjoy the breeze and take in the views from one of the tallest accessible points in the UK.
The High Tea in the Clouds experience and the viewing platform experience of the Spinnaker Tower are sold as two different tickets. You will likely need to book the High Tea in the Clouds experience in advance, whereas the general viewing experience usually has tickets available on the same day.
The Spinnaker Tower delivers more than just a visual spectacle; it's an immersive viewpoint that elevates your understanding and appreciation of Portsmouth's unique coastal character. It is conveniently located at Gunwharf Quays, so it is perfect for a visit during a day of shopping and leisure.
Enjoy Portsmouth's Beach - The Shores of the South Coast
Portsmouth has a long stretch of coast, and while it is not necessarily known for its beaches, it does still have some scenic seaside areas to relax in. The coast of Portsmouth stretches far and wide, which means there is no shortage of space to sunbath and swim. Unlike many other seaside cities near London, Portsmouth's beaches don't' become as crowded. Some beaches within the city area are Southsea Beach, Eastney Beach, and Hotwalls Beach.
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If you feel like an adventure and want to seek some more idyllic beaches, then I recommend Shanklin Beach on the Isle of Wight or West Wittering Beach near Portsmouth. Because Portsmouth is located on the South Coast, there are a variety of beaches nearby. Meaning it won't be difficult to find your special beach getaway nearby.
The D-Day Story Museum and Portsmouth's Role in World History
The D-Day Story museum in Portsmouth educates visitors about the city’s pivotal role in international events, particularly its contribution to the Normandy landings. Portsmouth was the headquarters and primary departure point for the military and naval units that were destined for Sword Beach, playing a critical role in the success of the D-Day landings on June 6, 1944.
The Dockyard in Portsmouth was a significant embarkation point for the troops, and it was also where components of the Mulberry Harbours were constructed, aiding the D-Day operations.
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Located near Southsea Beach, the D-Day Story Museum provides insights into the dramatic and poignant events of D-Day, enhancing the understanding of Portsmouth’s role in this historic event. Visiting the D-Day Story Museum takes you on a historical journey, revealing Portsmouth’s significant role in World War II.
The museum is quite unique, as many visitors do not know the story of the UK ports or how they were involved in the war. I highly recommend visiting if you would like to find out more about how Britain aided the D-Day landings.
The Groundlings Theatre
Portsmouth’s artistic side comes alive at the historic Groundlings Theatre. The Groundlings Theatre, established in 1784, stands as one of Portsmouth’s oldest Georgian theaters, offering a broad array of performing arts, including:
plays
musicals
comedy
dance
If you are in town and want to experience the unique theatre shows, then I recommend booking in advance, as it might be difficult to find tickets for events the same day.
Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery
Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery is a beacon of cultural heritage and artistic expression located within the heart of the city. This esteemed institution showcases a diverse collection that spans fine art, decorative art, and the history of Portsmouth.
Visitors can wander through exhibits that include the works of renowned local artists, artifacts from the city's maritime history, and interactive displays that engage audiences of all ages. The museum also houses the famed 'Arthur Conan Doyle Collection', celebrating the creator of Sherlock Holmes, who once called Portsmouth his home.
With ever-changing temporary exhibitions alongside its permanent collections, the Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery is a complete experience for those looking for great art exhibitions in the city. It's both a museum exhibiting Portsmouth, a collection of British history, and a beautiful gallery showing the artistic culture of the region. The Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery provides a window into the city's past and present, and I highly recommend visiting.
Day Trips from Portsmouth, England
Portsmouth's beauty doesn't end with its city centre and sandy shores; this is also a city with a strategic location for touring Southern England. There are multiple day trips within easy reach of Portsmouth by car or coach. This makes it a great hub for traveling, experiencing the South of England, and enjoying some of the incredible destinations it has to offer. Some of the best destinations near Portsmouth are:
Southampton
Bournemouth
Isle of Wight
New Forest
My favorite day trips are New Forest and Bournemouth, although all of these places are great options if you're looking to explore the surrounding towns and areas.
View of Bournemouth Beach
I do recommend exploring Portsmouth first, though, and if you have some spare time in your itinerary, then an excursion to one or more of these destinations could be the perfect way to conclude your trip.
Places to Stay in Portsmouth
Portsmouth has no shortage of visitors. Being the beautiful and historic seaside destination that it is, Portsmouth has tourists flocking from all over the United Kingdom as well as its fair share of international visitors. However, the city is well equipped with hotels, ensuring there are a variety of places to stay.
There are some good budget options, like the Holiday Inn and Ibis, while also having some great locally owned hotels, like the Royal Maritime Hotel. If you are on a budget, there are plenty of options, and if you have access to a car, you might even want to consider staying outside the city center.
In general, Portsmouth has a good selection of accommodations, but you might want to book in advance during the summer months as it does get particularly busy with many visitors flocking to the English shores.
Summary
Portsmouth is a city steeped in history, brimming with culture and history, and offering panoramic views. It's a captivating destination that offers something for everyone. From exploring the historic dockyard to shopping for designer bargains in the Gunwharf Quays to strolling through Old Portsmouth and climbing the city walls,.
There is such an incredible variety of activities and unique things to do in Portsmouth. I highly recommend visiting and experiencing the city’s coastal charm and great attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Portsmouth, UK, worth visiting?
Yes, Portsmouth, UK, is worth visiting for its world-class attractions, coastline, and rich history. Start planning your trip to explore the city's unique charm.
What is Portsmouth best known for?
Portsmouth is best known for its Historic Dockyard, which is home to Britain's great warships and the Royal Navy. It is also a hub for high-profile UK and multinational companies.
Is Portsmouth a seaside town?
Yes, Portsmouth is a seaside city with a four-mile stretch of coastline offering beautiful beaches, historic fortifications, and family attractions.
Is Portsmouth a nice area?
Yes, Portsmouth is a nice area with excellent quality of life, good education, rich history, events, attractions, and transportation. It's a great place to make a difference in people's lives.
What are the iconic ships housed in the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard?
The iconic ships housed in the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard include the HMS Victory, the HMS Warrior, and the Mary Rose. These are must-see attractions for maritime history enthusiasts.