Portsmouth, England: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard houses over 800 years of naval history, including Admiral Nelson’s HMS Victory? This maritime city on England’s south coast offers a fascinating blend of naval heritage, modern attractions, and seaside charm that makes it perfect for a weekend getaway or longer exploration. From climbing the iconic Spinnaker Tower to exploring historic warships, Portsmouth delivers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Located 119 km (74 miles) southwest of London, Portsmouth is easily accessible by various transportation options. The city serves as a major port with excellent connections to the rest of the UK and beyond.

By Train

Regular train services run from London Waterloo and London Victoria to Portsmouth, with journey times between 1.5 and 2 hours. The city has two main stations: Portsmouth & Southsea (central) and Portsmouth Harbour (adjacent to the Historic Dockyard and Gunwharf Quays).

By Car

If you’re driving, Portsmouth is accessible via the M27 and A3(M). The journey from London takes approximately 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Once in Portsmouth, several car parks are available throughout the city.

By Air

The closest major airports are Southampton Airport (30 km/19 miles away) and London Heathrow (100 km/62 miles). From Southampton, you can take a direct train to Portsmouth. From Heathrow, National Express coaches offer direct services to Portsmouth in approximately 90 minutes.

By Sea

As a major port city, Portsmouth has ferry connections to France, Spain, and the Isle of Wight. Brittany Ferries operates services to northern France and Spain from Portsmouth International Port.

Best Time to Visit Portsmouth

Portsmouth enjoys a milder climate than many parts of the UK thanks to its coastal location, but timing your visit right can make a significant difference to your experience.

Recommended Seasons

Annual Events Worth Planning Around

• Victorious Festival (August Bank Holiday weekend) – A major music festival on Southsea Common
• Portsmouth International Kite Festival (August) – Colorful displays over Southsea Common
• Great South Run (October) – A popular 10-mile running event along the seafront
• Portsmouth Festivities (June) – A 10-day celebration of arts and culture

Getting Around Locally

Portsmouth is a compact city, making it relatively easy to navigate. The main tourist areas are walkable, but several transportation options are available for longer journeys.

Public Transportation

First Bus and Stagecoach operate regular bus services throughout Portsmouth. The most useful for visitors is the Park & Ride service from the M275 into the city center and the number 1 bus, which runs between the Hard Interchange (for the Historic Dockyard) and Southsea.

Walking

Portsmouth is ideal for exploring on foot, especially along the seafront. The Millennium Promenade walking route is marked by a chain motif in the pavement and guides visitors between the main attractions.

Cycling

The flat terrain makes cycling a pleasant option. Bike hire is available at several locations, and dedicated cycling routes connect major attractions.

Water Transport

The Gosport Ferry provides regular crossings between Portsmouth and Gosport, offering great views of the harbor. Water taxis also operate during summer months.

Where to Stay

Portsmouth offers accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences, from luxury waterfront hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts.

Top Attractions & Activities

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

The crown jewel of Portsmouth’s attractions, the Historic Dockyard is home to some of Britain’s most important naval vessels and museums. A single ticket gives you access to multiple attractions, making it excellent value for a full day of exploration.

Spinnaker Tower

Standing 170 m (560 ft) tall, this sail-shaped tower has become Portsmouth’s most recognizable landmark. The observation decks offer breathtaking 350° views extending up to 37 km (23 miles) on a clear day. Brave visitors can walk across the Sky Walk glass floor or even abseil down the tower for an adrenaline rush.

Southsea Castle

Built by Henry VIII in 1544, this coastal fort was part of the king’s defensive network against French invasion. Legend has it that Henry VIII stood here to watch the Mary Rose sink in the Solent. Today, visitors can explore the battlements, underground tunnels, and enjoy views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight.

The D-Day Story

This immersive museum tells the story of the D-Day landings through personal accounts, artifacts, and interactive displays. The highlight is the Overlord Embroidery, a 83-meter tapestry commemorating the Allied forces’ Operation Overlord.

Museums & Cultural Spots

Charles Dickens’ Birthplace Museum

Literary enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the modest terraced house where Charles Dickens was born in 1812. The museum is furnished in the Regency style of the period and contains memorabilia, including the couch on which Dickens died in 1870.

Portsmouth Museum & Art Gallery

Discover the story of Portsmouth through exhibits on local history, art, and culture. The museum houses a significant collection related to Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes, as the author practiced medicine in Portsmouth while writing his early Holmes stories.

Hotwalls Studios

Located in Old Portsmouth’s former military barracks, this creative quarter houses studios for local artists and craftspeople. Visitors can watch artists at work, purchase unique pieces, and enjoy the on-site café with harbor views.

Portsmouth Cathedral

Also known as the Cathedral of St Thomas of Canterbury, this Anglican cathedral dates back to the 12th century, though much of the current building is from the 20th century. The cathedral hosts regular concerts and exhibitions alongside religious services.

Nature & Outdoor Experiences

Southsea Beach

This shingle beach stretches for miles along Portsmouth’s southern edge. While not sandy, it’s perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and windsurfing when conditions allow. The promenade is ideal for walking, running, or cycling with sea views.

Southsea Common

A vast green space adjacent to the beach, popular for picnics, kite flying, and outdoor events. The common hosts major festivals including Victorious Festival and the International Kite Festival.

Water Activities

Portsmouth’s coastal location makes it perfect for water sports. Try sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or windsurfing with equipment rental and lessons available at several locations including the Andrew Simpson Centre.

Portsdown Hill

Rising to the north of the city, this chalk hill offers spectacular panoramic views of Portsmouth, the harbor, and the Isle of Wight. Several walking trails and picnic spots make it perfect for a half-day excursion.

Dining & Local Cuisine

Portsmouth’s dining scene reflects its maritime heritage, with seafood featuring prominently alongside traditional British fare and international options.

Where to Eat

Local Specialties

• Seafood – Fresh fish, particularly cod, plaice, and mackerel caught in local waters
• Portsmouth Pudding – A traditional dessert made with suet, breadcrumbs, and jam
• Hampshire Watercress – The county is famous for its peppery watercress, often featured in local dishes
• Local Ales – Try beers from Portsmouth’s craft breweries like Staggeringly Good and Irving & Co.

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Safety Tips

• Portsmouth is generally safe, but take normal precautions with valuables, especially in crowded areas.
• Be cautious when swimming as there can be strong currents. Always check for warning flags on beaches.
• The weather can change quickly on the coast – carry a waterproof jacket even on sunny days.
• UK emergency services number is 999 (or 112).

Local Etiquette

Portsmouth has a strong naval heritage and local residents (known as ‘Pompey’ locals) take pride in their city’s history. The city also has a passionate football culture centered around Portsmouth FC (nicknamed ‘Pompey’).

Tipping in restaurants is customary at around 10-15% if service isn’t already included. In pubs, it’s not expected to tip for drinks, but you might round up the bill or offer to buy the bartender a drink.

Naval Presence

Portsmouth remains an active naval base. You’ll likely see serving military personnel around the city, and occasionally warships entering or leaving the harbor. Photography of active military installations is restricted – always check before taking pictures around the naval base.

Visitor Comments About Portsmouth

Practical Travel Tips

Conclusion

Portsmouth blends maritime heritage with modern charm to create a destination that appeals to history buffs, families, and casual travelers alike. From the historic ships that shaped Britain’s naval dominance to the contemporary buzz of Gunwharf Quays, the city offers a diverse range of experiences. Whether you’re climbing the Spinnaker Tower for breathtaking views, exploring Henry VIII’s coastal defenses, or simply enjoying fresh seafood with harbor views, Portsmouth delivers an authentic slice of British coastal life. Start planning your adventure today!