Portsmouth, the waterfront city
Portsmouth, the waterfront city, has miles of sea views and centuries of history. It's a vibrant and dynamic city where poignant reminders of the past blend seamlessly with a modern waterfront.
Portsmouth is famous for its historic ships and its Historic Dockyard presents some of the finest maritime heritage in the world. With 11 museums, 2 cathedrals, a lively arts scene, year-round events and green open spaces, Portsmouth might just surprise you.
Memory of Portsmouth
“My favourite thing about Portsmouth is its people. They are always cheerful and helpful and justly proud of their great city. There seems to be a permanent 'buzz' about the city and with this great atmosphere, and so much to see and do for all ages, it is a perfect holiday destination.”
Ray Fairbank, Lincolnshire
Culture & heritage
With 11 inspiring museums, Portsmouth has a great story to tell. Discover more about its naval heritage at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and the Royal Marines Museum. Hear about Portsmouth’s role in WWII at the D-Day Museum and learn more about famous author Charles Dickens at the very place he was born.
Attractions
The Spinnaker Tower is a great place to begin your visit to Portsmouth. Standing 170m high with the city laid out before you, you’ll be able to see how compact the city is. Watch the bustling harbour in action and dare to step out onto Europe’s largest glass floor.
Food and drink
Portsmouth boasts a number of award-winning restaurants and is home to two of its very own food festivals. With regular farmers' markets and plenty of establishments offering a taste of local food, Portsmouth is becoming the South’s newest foodie haven.
Shopping
Portsmouth is a shopping haven, with three distinct areas offering something different. Portsmouth’s City Centre has all the big names you’ll recognise. Enjoy the indoor mall at Cascades and a street market dating back centuries. Southsea boasts an impressive range of specialist retailers plus two department stores. Or head to Gunwharf Quays and discover more than 95 designer outlet stores.
Sport
Head to Fratton Park to catch the Premier League’s finest in action and some of the most passionate fans in the country.
Every October Portsmouth is host to the Great South Run, Europe’s leading 10-mile road race.
Music & nightlife
The legendary Wedgewood Rooms in Southsea is the best place to catch the emerging Portsmouth talent and popular acts on tour. Gunwharf Quays is home to more than 30 bars and restaurants so perfect for a night on the tiles!
Buy before you fly
There are so many great things to see and do in Portsmouth, so don’t waste time. Visit our online shop to get discounts on attractions and services. For great offers, go to VisitBritain Direct (www.visitbritaindirect.com).
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Top daytime must-do's | Top night time must-do's |
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- Get the best view of the city from the top of Portsmouth’s iconic Spinnaker Tower
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- Shop ‘til you drop at all three of the city’s shopping areas – Gunwharf Quays, City Centre and Southsea
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- Walk along Southsea’s seafront promenade, backed by gorgeous green spaces
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- Check out the ‘A Study In Sherlock’ exhibition at Portsmouth’s City Museum
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