Things to do in Portsmouth

Portsmouth, a vibrant and historic city located on the south coast of England, offers visitors a wealth of attractions to explore. From naval history to art and culture, there is something for everyone in Portsmouth. Here are the top 8 things to do in Portsmouth.

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

What is it?
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is a large maritime museum complex located in the naval city of Portsmouth in southern England. It is home to several historic ships, including the HMS Victory, the HMS Warrior, and the Mary Rose, open for visitors to explore. The dockyard also features a number of exhibitions, galleries, and museums that offer a fascinating insight into the rich naval history of Portsmouth and the UK.

Why should you go?
A visit to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is a must for anyone interested in maritime history or naval architecture. The dockyard offers a unique opportunity to explore some of the most famous ships in British naval history and learn about the lives of the sailors who served on them. Highlights include the HMS Victory, which was Lord Nelson's flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar, and the Mary Rose, a Tudor warship that sank in 1545 and was raised in 1982.

In addition to the ships, the dockyard features a range of other attractions, including the National Museum of the Royal Navy and the Action Stations interactive exhibition. The dockyard also hosts a range of special events and activities throughout the year, including guided tours, family workshops, and live demonstrations of historic naval techniques.

Spinnaker Towerand

What is it?
The Spinnaker Tower is a landmark observation tower located in Portsmouth, England. It stands at the height of 560 feet and offers panoramic views of Portsmouth Harbour, the Isle of Wight, and the surrounding areas.

Why should you go?
Visiting the Spinnaker Tower is a must-do activity when in Portsmouth. The tower offers breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings, making it a popular attraction for both locals and tourists. From the tower's three observation decks, visitors can see landmarks such as HMS Victory, HMS Warrior, and the Mary Rose Museum. The tower also offers a glass Sky Walk, a thrilling experience for those who are not afraid of heights. Visitors can also enjoy a meal or a drink at the tower's café while enjoying the stunning views.

The Spinnaker Tower is also known for its unique design, which is inspired by sails and the maritime heritage of Portsmouth. The tower has won several awards for its architecture and engineering, making it a must-see attraction for those interested in design and engineering.

Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery

What is it?
Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery is a museum focused on the history of the city and its people. It is housed in the former Portsmouth Grammar School building, which was built in 1732. The museum's collections cover a range of subjects, including archaeology, social history, art, and natural history.

Why should you go?
Visiting the Portsmouth Museum is a great way to learn about the history and culture of Portsmouth. The museum's exhibits cover a range of topics, from the city's role during World War II to the life and work of Arthur Conan Doyle in Portsmouth.

One of the museum's highlights is the Story of Portsmouth, which explores the city's history from Roman times to the present day. The exhibit includes interactive displays, artifacts, and multimedia presentations that bring the city's past to life.

D-Day Story

What is it?
The D-Day Story in Portsmouth is a museum dedicated to the Normandy landings during World War II, also known as D-Day.

Why should you go?
Visiting the D-Day Museum is a must-do for history buffs and anyone interested in World War II. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the largest amphibious assault in history and highlights the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought for freedom.

The museum features a wide range of exhibits, including a replica of the famous Overlord Embroidery, a massive tapestry that depicts the events leading up to D-Day and the invasion itself. There are also interactive displays, films, and personal accounts from soldiers who participated in the operation.

Southsea Castle

What is it?
Southsea Castle is a 16th-century fortification located on the south coast of England in the coastal city of Portsmouth. It was built by Henry VIII to protect England from potential invasions by the French.

Why should you go?
Southsea Castle offers a fascinating glimpse into England's military history. Visitors can explore the castle's ramparts, which provide panoramic views of the Solent and the Isle of Wight. There is also a museum on site that showcases the castle's history and its importance in defending the country.
In addition to the historical significance of the castle, it is also a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities, such as kite flying and beach walks. The castle's location on the coast means that it offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding landscape.

Southsea Castle is easily accessible from the city of Portsmouth, making it a convenient stop for visitors to the area. It is also located near other popular attractions, such as the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and the D-Day Story, so visitors can easily combine a visit to the castle with other local attractions.

The Mary Rose Museum

What is it?
The Mary Rose Museum is a museum located in Portsmouth Historic Dockyard that displays artifacts from the Tudor warship, the Mary Rose. The ship was built in 1510 and served in the English Navy for over 30 years before sinking during a battle in 1545. The ship was raised from the seabed in 1982, and the museum was opened in 2013 to display the many artifacts that were recovered from the wreckage.

Why should you go?
The Mary Rose Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in naval history or Tudor-era England. Visitors to the museum can see the remains of the Mary Rose, which have been preserved and displayed in a unique way to give an insight into life on board the ship. The museum also houses thousands of artifacts that were found on the ship, including weapons, clothing, tools, and personal items of the crew.

The museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits and experiences, such as a virtual reality tour of the ship and a chance to handle replicas of some of the artifacts. The museum also has a viewing platform that overlooks the ship and provides stunning views of the harbor.

Charles Dickens' Birthplace Museum

What is it?
Charles Dickens' Birthplace Museum is a small museum located in the city of Portsmouth that is dedicated to the life and work of the famous Victorian author. The museum is housed in the building where Dickens was born on February 7, 1812, and features a collection of personal artifacts, manuscripts, and memorabilia related to the author.

Why should you go?
Visiting the Charles Dickens' Birthplace Museum is a must for any fan of the celebrated author's work. The museum offers a unique insight into the early life and influences of Dickens, and visitors can see the room where he was born and spent his early childhood. The museum also houses a collection of rare and original manuscripts, first editions of his books, and personal items belonging to Dickens, including his writing desk and chair.

The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and times of 19th-century England that Dickens wrote about so vividly in his novels. Visitors can learn about the poverty, crime, and social injustice that were prevalent during Dickens' lifetime and how he used his writing to bring attention to these issues.

Portsmouth Cathedral

What is it?
A Church of England cathedral located in the heart of Portsmouth's Old Town. The cathedral is built in the Gothic style and features a tall, elegant tower that dominates the surrounding skyline. It is the seat of the Bishop of Portsmouth and serves as the mother church of the Diocese of Portsmouth.

Why should you go?
Visitors to Portsmouth should definitely take the time to visit the cathedral, whether they are religious or not. The architecture alone is stunning, with beautiful stained glass windows and intricate carvings throughout the building. There are also regular services and events held in the cathedral, including concerts, lectures, and art exhibitions. Visitors can also see memorials and monuments dedicated to important figures in Portsmouth's history.