Things to do in Portsmouth

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Portsmouth
Portsmouth
Portsmouth
Portsmouth
Portsmouth
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Portsmouth must see attractions

1. Gunwharf Quays

Beneath the shadow of the famous Spinnaker Tower is the stylish shopping and leisure center of Gunwharf Quays, where you can easily spend a day browsing the many shops and enjoying the entertainment. The site's history as an ordnance yard is marked only by the cannons that line the waterfront. Today, the area is a modern, buzzing destination, popular with both local residents and visitors. Spoil yourself with a day of shopping and eating here.
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2. Portsmouth International Port

Portsmouth International Port is a gateway to the rest of Europe, as well as the nearby Channel Islands. Considered Britain’s best-connected port, it operates ferries, cruises and cargo ships. Access it easily just north of Portsmouth’s center. Start here for a great opportunity to visit the historical seaside town of Portsmouth.
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3. Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

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4. HMS Victory

The pride of the British fleet, HMS Victory, served in the American War of Independence and the French Revolutionary War. It earned its name at the Battle of Trafalgar, where Nelson led the fleet to success. Today view the ship in dry dock. It is still the flagship of the Royal Navy’s First Sea Lord after over 200 years in service and also serves as a museum dedicated to the Georgian Navy. Step aboard to find out more.
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5. University of Portsmouth

From a humble beginning in 1869, this academic center has grown in size and stature to be named the University of Portsmouth. Combine a stroll around the campus with your visit to the Historic Dockyard and other attractions near Old Portsmouth.
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6. Portsmouth Guildhall

The Portsmouth Guildhall is a majestic building and multi-use entertainment venue in the center of Portsmouth. Attend an event from its array of concerts, conferences, weddings, exhibitions and festivals.
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7. Mary Rose Museum

Experience what life was like for sailors on a Tudor-era warship at the Mary Rose Museum. With some 19,000 period objects and audio-visual displays, a visit to the Mary Rose Museum is a great day out for all ages. Come to the museum to be part of living British naval history.
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8. Southsea Castle

Once an important defensive structure, the beautifully preserved Southsea Castle is now a popular tourist attraction. Walk around the battlements, discover its captivating history and admire the sea views.
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9. The D-Day Story

A stunning tapestry forms the centerpiece of the D-Day Museum, a space dedicated to documenting and remembering a crucial moment in World War II. On June 6, 1944, the Allied forces launched a brave invasion of the north coast of France, a pivotal move that changed the course of the war. Engage with the tragedy and triumph of this day through interactive exhibits and displays.
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What to do in Portsmouth

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Portsmouth? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Portsmouth

Gunwharf Quays

Gunwharf Quays

4.5/5(50 reviews)

Stretching along the sea is one of Portsmouth's coolest areas, with plenty of shops, cafés, bars and restaurants as well as a contemporary art gallery.

Gunwharf Quays
Portsmouth International Port

Portsmouth International Port

4.5/5(6 reviews)

Embark on a trip to Europe or enter the lovely town of Portsmouth, England, through the comfort and ease of this modern port.

Portsmouth International Port
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

4.5/5(64 reviews)

Find heroic ships, triumphant naval vessels and World War I frigates at this dockyard, a tribute to the city’s maritime might.

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
HMS Victory

HMS Victory

4.5/5(31 reviews)

Lord Nelson's triumphant warship is one of the best-preserved vessels from the Napoleonic wars and one of Portsmouth's most impressive attractions.

HMS Victory
University of Portsmouth

University of Portsmouth

4.5/5(6 reviews)

The harbors of Portsmouth helped the city establish its importance in the world. Now this university continues innovating to deliver a global influence.

University of Portsmouth
Portsmouth Guildhall

Portsmouth Guildhall

Sing along to some of the world’s biggest names in music, laugh until you cry and join the celebrations in this central entertainment venue.

Portsmouth Guildhall
Mary Rose Museum

Mary Rose Museum

5/5(11 reviews)

Discover life onboard and the history of one of King Henry VIII’s favorite warships via displays of valuable artifacts and interactive activities.

Mary Rose Museum
Southsea Castle

Southsea Castle

5/5(4 reviews)

Located in a dramatic waterfront setting, this historic fort was once the first line of English defense and is now a fascinating museum.

Southsea Castle
The D-Day Story

The D-Day Story

This insightful and interactive museum commemorates the heroism of the Allied forces, many of whom set off from Portsmouth to storm the beaches of Normandy in 1944.

The D-Day Story

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Portsmouth

Southsea

Southsea

Plan a vacation in Portsmouth’s lively seaside neighborhood, which has an ancient castle, long beaches, sprawling gardens, museums, piers and entertainment centers.

Southsea
Portsmouth City Centre

Portsmouth City Centre

4.5/5(5 area reviews)

Victorian architecture lines the modern avenues of this port city, which has a thriving shopping boulevard and concert venues in historic buildings.

Portsmouth City Centre
Cosham

Cosham

3.5/5(9 area reviews)

Cosham is popular for its abundant dining options, and you can check out PlayZone Portsmouth, a top attraction in the neighborhood.

Cosham
Old Portsmouth

Old Portsmouth

The fascinating landmarks of the former medieval town still stand firm today, helping to piece together the history of this powerful maritime giant.

Old Portsmouth
Buckland

Buckland

Though Buckland might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Portsmouth International Port and Portsmouth Guildhall.

Buckland
See our Where To Stay guide

 

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Popular day trips from Portsmouth

Panorama of Mallets Mortar in the front of Fort Nelson - a Royal Armouries museum - near Portsmouth, Hampshire, UK

Fareham

View from Hayling Island to Langstone, Hampshire, England, UK

Havant

Hayling Island

Hayling Island

Panorama of Marina in Gosport from a drone, Portsmouth, Gosport, England

Gosport

Waterlooville
Photo by Taliswolf (page does not exist) (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0)

Waterlooville

South Hayling

South Hayling

Port Solent

Port Solent

Frequently asked questions

Is Portsmouth worth visiting?
Portsmouth has a unique blend of local charm, attractions and culture. Whether you're into history, the outdoors or local culinary flavors, there's a lot you'll find here.
How do I spend a day in Portsmouth?
West Wittering Beach and Mary Rose Museum are two awesome places to begin your sightseeing adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and shopping options in Portsmouth while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Portsmouth?
The top tourist attraction in Portsmouth is West Wittering Beach, so don't forget to add it to your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Portsmouth?
Three days in Portsmouth is enough to visit the city's main attractions. Many guests stay for two days on average. Mary Rose Museum, Southsea Beach and Clarence Pier are highly rated sights. Like to see more? Stick around a while longer to visit nearby hotspots such as Southampton.
Is Portsmouth a walkable city?
Some leading sights in Portsmouth, such as Mary Rose Museum and Southsea Beach, are within walking distance. You can also explore several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Just 1 mile from central Portsmouth is Southsea and Portsmouth City Centre is 0.1 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Portsmouth with kids?
If you're looking for activities and sights for all ages, check out these fantastic ideas for what to do in Portsmouth with kids.

What to do in Portsmouth for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Portsmouth, with activities for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Forelands Beach or Sally Port.
Are there free things to do in Portsmouth?
From enjoying parks to wandering around hip neighborhoods, it's easy to discover free things to do in Portsmouth. If you need inspiration, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Southsea Beach is a top spot for anyone planning to save on their traveling adventures.

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