Top 10 Things to do in Portsmouth

Things to do in Portsmouth

Welcome to the vibrant and historic city of Portsmouth! Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, there are endless opportunities for fun and adventure here. So, grab your map and get ready to explore everything this city has to offer!

1. Spinnaker Tower

Rising high above the Portsmouth skyline, Spinnaker Tower is a marvel of modern engineering that offers breath-taking views of the city and beyond. Standing at an impressive height of 170 meters, this tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in the area.

A trip to Spinnaker Tower isn’t for those afraid of heights! As you climb higher and higher up its sleek spiral staircase or glass elevator (don’t worry – there’s a lift if you prefer!), your heart will race with excitement as you take in panoramic views stretching across miles of beautiful coastline.

Once at the top, visitors can step out onto a viewing platform where they’ll be greeted by stunning vistas over Portsmouth Harbour and beyond. On clear days, it’s even possible to see all the way to France!

For foodies looking for something special, The Clouds Café on level three is a must-visit spot. Here, visitors can indulge in sweet treats and light bites while soaking up unforgettable views from their table.

Whether you’re visiting for just an hour or planning to spend an entire day exploring everything Portsmouth has to offer, no trip would be complete without experiencing Spinnaker Tower first-hand!

2. The Mary Rose

The Mary Rose is a historical ship that has become a popular tourist attraction in Portsmouth. The ship was built by Henry VIII in 1510 and served as his flagship for over three decades. Unfortunately, the ship sank during a battle against the French in 1545 and remained at the bottom of the sea until it was rediscovered in 1971.

Since then, extensive efforts have been made to preserve the vessel and its contents. Visitors can now explore the museum dedicated to this iconic piece of British history, which features displays showcasing artifacts recovered from the wreckage. These include cannons, weapons, personal items belonging to crew members and even skeletons of some crew members.

The Mary Rose Museum also offers interactive exhibits where visitors can learn about life on board and how sailors lived during Tudor times. Moreover, there are several films showcasing different aspects of this fascinating story which make for an immersive experience.

It’s especially interesting considering that very few ships from this period have survived intact like The Mary Rose has – making it one of Portsmouth’s most important attractions for all those interested in history!

3. Fratton Park

Fratton Park is a football stadium located in Portsmouth and the home ground of Portsmouth Football Club. The stadium has a capacity of over 20,000 people, making it one of the largest football stadiums in the south of England.

The history of Fratton Park dates back to 1899 when it was first opened. Since then, it has undergone several renovations to improve its facilities for players and fans alike.

If you’re a fan of football or even just sports in general, visiting Fratton Park should definitely be on your list of things to do in Portsmouth. You can take a tour around the grounds and get an insider’s look at where some legendary moments have taken place.

For those who are lucky enough to catch a game at Fratton Park, you’ll experience an electrifying atmosphere that is unmatched anywhere else. The passionate fans create an incredible energy that makes attending a match here truly unforgettable.

Whether you’re there for a tour or cheering on your favourite team during a game day, Fratton Park offers something unique and exciting for everyone who visits.

4. Canoe Lake

Located in the heart of Southsea, Canoe Lake is a beautiful and serene freshwater lake that offers plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy. Surrounded by lush greenery, this charming spot is perfect for picnics or simply relaxing on the grassy banks.

For those looking for something more active, there are several water sports available including kayaking and paddleboarding. The lake also has a miniature golf course and a model village nearby which makes it an ideal place to spend quality time with family or friends.

One of the major attractions here is the swan boats, which can be rented out for leisurely rides around the lake. It’s an excellent way to soak up the scenery while enjoying some fresh air.

Canoe Lake also plays host to many events throughout the year such as live music performances and outdoor cinema screenings during summer months. With so much on offer, it’s easy to see why Canoe Lake remains one of Portsmouth’s most popular spots all year round!

5. Hotwalls Studios

Located in the historic Old Portsmouth, Hotwalls Studios is a hub of creativity and innovation. This unique space houses a community of talented artists who specialize in different mediums such as painting, ceramics, jewellery making and more.

The studios are housed within an old military barracks that has been transformed into modern workspaces while still maintaining its original charm. Visitors can wander through the open-air galleries and watch artists at work or even take part in workshops themselves.

Hotwalls Studios also boasts stunning views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight, which makes it the perfect spot for enjoying some art while taking in breath-taking scenery. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby where visitors can grab a bite to eat before or after exploring this creative haven.

If you’re looking for something truly unique to do during your visit to Portsmouth, make sure to add Hotwalls Studios to your itinerary. You’ll be amazed by the incredible talent on display here and inspired by these creatives’ passion for their craft.

6. Portsdown Hill

Located north of Portsmouth, Portsdown Hill is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers and history buffs alike. The hill offers breath-taking views of the city and its surroundings, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts.

Aside from admiring the view, visitors can also explore the Fort Nelson Museum located at the top of the hill. This museum houses a vast collection of weapons and artillery pieces from different time periods, including ancient Chinese trebuchets and modern-day missiles.

For those who love hiking or cycling, there are several trails around Portsdown Hill that offer varying degrees of difficulty. These trails take you through lush greenery and provide ample opportunities to spot wildlife such as deer and foxes.

Additionally, if you’re looking for a place to have a picnic with your family or friends while enjoying fantastic views overlooking Portsmouth Harbour, then Portsdown Hill may be just what you’re looking for!

Portsdown Hill offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance that makes it one of Portsmouth’s top-rated attractions.

7. Albert Road

If you’re looking for a vibrant and energetic area in Portsmouth, then Albert Road is the place to be. This bustling road is filled with independent shops, cafes, bars and restaurants that cater to every taste and budget.

One of the highlights of this street is The Kings Theatre – a stunning Edwardian playhouse that was built in 1907. With its ornate decor and impressive stage productions, it’s a great place to catch a show or enjoy some live music.

Foodies will also love exploring the many eateries on offer here. From vegan delights at Hunter Gatherer to spicy tapas at Monty’s Southsea, there’s something for everyone. And if you’re feeling thirsty, don’t miss out on grabbing a pint at one of the quirky pubs such as The Wine Vaults or The Fat Fox.

But it’s not just about eating and drinking here – Albert Road has plenty of unique shops too! Pop into Pie & Vinyl for some tasty treats (and vinyl records), browse vintage clothes at A Little Bit Different or pick up some cute trinkets from All About Tea.

In short, visiting Albert Road should definitely be on your list when exploring Portsmouth. You never know what hidden gems you might find!

8. Old Portsmouth

Old Portsmouth is a picturesque part of the city, with cobbled streets and historic buildings. It’s easy to spend hours wandering around this charming area, taking in the sights and enjoying the atmosphere.

One of the most popular attractions in Old Portsmouth is The Round Tower. This 15th-century fortification offers stunning views across the Solent and is open to visitors throughout the year.

Another must-see attraction in Old Portsmouth is St. Thomas’ Cathedral. This beautiful building dates back to 1180 and features exquisite stained-glass windows, ornate ceilings, and intricate stonework.

If you’re interested in local history, a visit to The Square Tower should be on your list. Built-in 1494 by Henry VII as part of his plan for coastal defence against France, it now serves as an arts venue hosting concerts and exhibitions.

For those who love walking or cycling along scenic routes; head towards Clarence Pier where you can stroll down Southsea seafront which takes you through Old Portsmouth before ending at Eastney Beach!

Old Portsmouth offers visitors a glimpse into its rich maritime past while providing plenty of opportunities for exploration and relaxation!

9. Royal Armouries

The Royal Armouries is a must-visit attraction for history buffs and anyone interested in weaponry. This museum boasts an extensive collection of arms, armour, and artillery from different periods throughout world history.

Visitors can witness the evolution of weapons and see how they were used by soldiers on the battlefield. The displays are informative, interactive and well-curated to provide a fascinating insight into military technology through time.

One highlight of this museum is its jousting tournament re-enactments that take place during specific days of the year. It’s an incredible experience to watch knights in full armour charge at each other with lances while riding horses at full gallop!

Another exciting exhibit is the War Gallery which showcases weaponry used in conflicts ranging from ancient Rome to modern-day warfare. Visitors can explore various war scenarios like trench warfare or guerrilla warfare.

The Royal Armouries offers a thrilling experience that will leave visitors feeling awed by human ingenuity when it comes to armaments production over time – definitely one of Portsmouth’s top 10 things to do!

10. Natural History Museum

There you have it, the top 10 things to do in Portsmouth. From taking in stunning views at Spinnaker Tower and exploring maritime history at The Mary Rose, to enjoying a day out at Fratton Park or canoeing on Canoe Lake, there’s something for everyone.

For art lovers, Hotwalls Studios offers a chance to discover local artists and their works while Portsdown Hill is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want to hike or cycle through beautiful scenery. Meanwhile, Albert Road has plenty of options for foodies looking to sample international cuisine.

Old Portsmouth allows visitors to step back in time with its charming streets and historic buildings while Royal Armouries showcases impressive collections of weapons and armour throughout history. Natural History Museum provides a fascinating look into the natural world.

So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip now and start exploring all that this wonderful city has to offer!