A former medieval port town, this cultured city attracts visitors with its splendid architecture and rich history, documented in its many museums.
The historic ships that line the waterfront of Portsmouth’s harbor are testament to this city's marine heritage, yet it's not just fans of maritime lore who are drawn here. Admire its state-of-the-art buildings and explore its bustling shopping centers and modern museums to see the dynamic place it has become.
Learn everything you need to know about the city in the Portsmouth Museum, a beautiful red-brick building with exhibits detailing the town’s eventful history. Select from the many other museums in the city. Board Lord Nelson's flagship, the HMS Victory, for a flavor of seafaring life or choose one of the other vessels at the Historic Dockyard. Experience different periods of military history in the D-Day Museum, the Royal Marines Museum or Southsea Castle, a Tudor fortress that faces the sea.
To get the best view of Portsmouth, travel up the iconic Spinnaker Tower, a distinctive building shaped like a sail. Steel yourself as you step onto glass floors and look down at the city far below. For additional exciting views, ride a roller coaster at Clarence Pier Amusement Park and climb along its swinging high ropes course.
Find plenty of trendy places to shop and eat in Portsmouth. Spend your day at Gunwharf Quays, a complex that features shops, cafés, a bowling alley, a cinema and an art gallery, all on the oceanfront. In the evening, relax at Port Solent, a marina area packed with stylish restaurants of every kind.
Visit in August for Victorious Festival, which features live music, food and drink tasting and kids’ events. In June, an electric atmosphere pervades as the whole city is taken over by Portsmouth Festivities, a 10-day celebration of arts across multiple venues.
Portsmouth is connected to London and other major cities by regular trains. The nearest airport is in Southampton. Book a long stay to enjoy everything happening in this lively and exciting city.