Southsea is a bustling seaside resort set on the shores of The Solent. Visit this Victorian seafront neighborhood for family-friendly adventures at beaches, coastal gardens and piers. Tour a royal castle, spot marine life and catch shows at theaters and live music venues.
The district takes its name from Southsea Castle, a moated waterfront fortress built by King Henry VIII in 1544. Stroll through the underground tunnel that encircles the moat and enjoy sea views from the ramparts. Interactive exhibits highlight the history of the castle and Portsmouth’s defensive systems. Come on a Friday in summertime for live music events.
Southsea Beach runs either side of the castle with a long sweep of sand and shingle. Have fun on fairground rides and at an amusement arcade at Clarence Pier. Sharks, rays and exotic fish species swim in walk-through viewing tunnels at Blue Reef Aquarium. Peruse curios shops, dine on hearty British pub food and go fishing at South Parade Pier.
Spend a day barbecuing, flying kites and playing sports at beachfront Southsea Common. This is a venue for annual events such as Portsmouth International Kite Festival and Portsmouth Pride. Southsea Green is another seafront garden and the location of Southsea Model Village and Cumberland House Natural History Museum. Admire the green’s rose and Japanese gardens and go boating on Canoe Lake.
Get acquainted with military history at the Portsmouth D-Day Museum. This interactive museum celebrates the people and events of the Battle of Normandy. A major highlight is a 272-feet (83-meter) tapestry called the Overlord Embroidery.
For year-round entertainment, the Edwardian Kings Theatre puts on comedies, dramas, musicals and Christmas pantomimes. Music fans can attend performances by established and emerging acts at the Pyramids Centre Portsmouth and Wedgewood Rooms. Sample a range of cuisines, from Indian to Japanese and Turkish, at the restaurants on Albert Road.
Southsea occupies the southernmost section of Portsea Island. Several bus lines travel through the neighborhood and hovercrafts depart regularly for the Isle of Wight from Southsea Hoverport.
