Things to do in Portsmouth

Boasting miles of Blue Flag coastline and a rich naval history, Portsmouth is one of the most vibrant and welcoming cities you could hope to visit. The great waterfront city doesn’t just offer watersports, lush beaches and historic naval attractions; you’ll also find plenty of things to do in Portsmouth whether you want to relax and unwind or adventure and explore.

If you’re staying with us at The Solent Hotel, you’ll be well-placed to explore the city. In fact, less than 20 minutes in the car will put you in the heart of the action in Portsmouth as well as nearby bustling Southampton, the town of Fareham and the beautiful surrounding areas. So, let’s get into some of our favourite fun things to do in Portsmouth for your next stay with us.

1. Portsmouth City Tours

From the cobbled streets to the busy docks, there’s no better way to find the best things to do in Portsmouth than through a city tour. While there are plenty of Portsmouth sightseeing tours to be found (both on land and by boat) you can also get around the city through a wide variety of self-guided tours. Add a tour to your list of fun things to do in Portsmouth and get exploring.

2. The Spinnaker Tower

One of more unique ways to see the city is from Portsmouth’s iconic Spinnaker Tower. Standing at a remarkable 170 metres, you can enjoy 23-mile wide views over Portsmouth, the Solent, the South Downs and the Isle of Wight. You can also relax on the tower’s Sky Bar, or grab a bite to eat in the restaurant. If you’re feeling brave, try the Sky Walk which takes you 100 metres above sea level or even abseil down the tower. Maybe certain parts are for the more adventurous but the Spinnaker Tower is definitely one of the best things to do in Portsmouth.

– Guided walking tours (historic & themed)

– Harbour and boat sightseeing tours

– Self-guided audio and map tours

1. Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard

One of the best things to do in Portsmouth is explore the city’s incredible 500-years strong naval history. Start with Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard. With nine Portsmouth attractions at this site, it’s a great place to have a whole day out for the family. Explore the city’s famed flagship HMS Victory, alongside other renowned ships and submarines.

2. Portsmouth Naval Museums

Whether you’re interested in historic missiles, Tudor artefacts or the Royal Navy, you’ll also find three different museums at the dockyard. It really is a great place to start when you’re looking for the best things to do in Portsmouth.

1. Southsea Beach & Promenade

The traditional resort town of Southsea is only a few miles away from Portsmouth city centre and is made up of much more than a beach and bustling promenade. It’s ideal for walkers as it’s a flat, 1.5-mile stretch with plenty to see and do along the way. History buffs will love the area’s rich collection of blue plaques that showcases its famous residents as well as exploring Southsea Castle standing at Portsmouth’s most southerly point.

2. Explore Southsea Canoe Lake

If the sea isn’t for you then tucked away just behind Southsea Beach promenade is a stunning recreation area that dates back to 1886. While it’s mostly known for its man-made salt water lake and pedal boat hire, you’ll also find a play area, rose gardens, a cafe, sports facilities and more. As the lake gets its water from the sea you can explore a variety of crabs, fish and other marine wildlife making it one of the best things you can do in Portsmouth.

3. Clarence Pier

There’s something for everyone at Clarence Pier if you’re looking for fun days out in Portsmouth. You can enjoy a wide range of rides including classics like dodgems and waltzes or thrilling rollercoasters and water rides. If the weather isn’t looking so good, you can take your pick of three large indoor amusement arcades, play some adventure golf or enjoy some refreshments at the iconic Wimpy restaurant. It’s one of the best family-friendly things to do in Portsmouth you’re sure to find but keep reading if you’d like a little more family-fun inspiration.

1. Blue Reef Aquarium

Discover an undersea safari at the city’s Blue Reef Aquarium that overlooks the beautiful Solent water. Boasting over 40 displays of everything from sharks and rays to tropical creatures and marine life, the whole family will love getting close to the sea from the aquarium’s glass walk-through tunnel. Alongside regular talks and live feeds, you can also enjoy an outdoor play area and splash park in the summer months which makes for one of the best family-friendly things to do in Portsmouth.

2. Portsmouth Museum & Art Gallery

The Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery is a dedicated space that celebrates the city and its people; and is one of the best family friendly things to do in Portsmouth. A huge range of permanent displays celebrate Portsmouth’s culture with displays including a Study in Sherlock and Football in the City, or its rich history with displays such as No Place Like Pompey and The Story of Portsmouth. With free admission, you’ll also explore an ever-changing programme of special events and displays that showcase local artists.

3. Hovertravel

The fastest way to cross the Solent between Southsea and Ryde remains via Hovertravel – the world’s longest-running commercial hovercraft service and the only scheduled passenger hovercraft service in Europe. This iconic mode of transport must be seen to be believed as it travels 1.5 metres above the water and at speeds of up to 30 knots. Even if you don’t fancy a trip aboard, join the revellers on the promenade’s edge to watch the hovercrafts come in and out and wave off passengers on their trips.

1. Independent & High Street Shops

There’s something to delight anyone looking for a bit of retail therapy in Portsmouth. For a traditional British high street experience Gunwharf Quays offers a huge range with over 90 premium outlets, as well as bars, restaurants and cafes. Whereas Southsea is home to smaller, independent boutiques and shops as well as great local markets. Portsmouth City Centre has a good mix of well-known and independent retailers to cater for every kind of shopper, while Port Solent has unlimited free parking for you to explore waterside shopping on the marina for something a little different.

2. Local Seafood Spots

As the UK’s only island city, if it’s fresh seafood you’re looking for then Portsmouth is the place to be. You’ll be spoiled for choice with many dedicated seafood restaurants including Porto Grill A Taberna and The Fisherman’s Kitchen, which are both highly rated as great things to do in Portsmouth for fresh, local seafood.

3. Traditional Old Portsmouth Pubs & Inns

From Sunday roasts to fish and chips, if it’s classic pub grub you’re after then Old Portsmouth is where you want to be. With a range of traditional pubs and inns, if you’re lucky enough to get a seat overlooking the water you can watch the boats coming in and out.