What to do in Portsmouth

Activities, attractions and tours

A wooden deck with people walking, a large ship's mast, and buildings in the background.
A stone fortification by a river with a sunset in the background.
A statue of St. John the Evangelist in front of a large red brick church with two towers.
A grand staircase with ornate railings and red walls adorned with framed portraits.
A city street with modern buildings, a café, and people walking.

Things to do

Isle of Wight: Osborne Admission Ticket

Isle of Wight: Osborne Admission Ticket

Rp523.949
per adult
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Isle of Wight: Osborne Admission Ticket
Bar & Club queue jump entry Party Pass to multiple venues in Portsmouth

Bar & Club queue jump entry Party Pass to multiple venues in Portsmouth

Rp237.081
per adult
Bar & Club queue jump entry Party Pass to multiple venues in Portsmouth
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Top places to visit

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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A modern urban waterfront with a tall glass building, a canal, and surrounding commercial buildings.

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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A modern building with a sign reading "Portsmouth International Port".

3. Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

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A modern architectural structure with a curved facade, a stone bollard, and a paved walkway.

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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A historic ship docked at a waterfront, with a large modern structure in the foreground.

5. 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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A historic building with a clock tower, surrounded by trees and a paved plaza.

6. 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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A modern building with a grid of windows and a sign that reads "University of Bristol".

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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A large, intricate shipwreck with exposed wooden beams and metal structures, displayed in a museum setting.

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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A historic fort entrance with cannons, a wooden archway, and a sign about Southsea Castle.

What to do in Portsmouth

Stay near popular Portsmouth attractions

A modern urban waterfront with a tall glass building, a canal, and surrounding commercial buildings.

Gunwharf Quays

9.0/10 (947 reviews)
Explore the UK's only waterfront outlet shopping centre with premium brands at up to 60% off. Savour harbour views from waterside restaurants after browsing over 90 designer stores at this Portsmouth destination.
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Where to stay in Portsmouth

Find the best Portsmouth areas for the activities you enjoy most.
A building with a sign reading "Golden Horseshoe."

Southsea

Southsea is a destination visitors seek out for its beaches, lively bars and seaside views. You might want to check out attractions like Fratton Park or Kings Theatre while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

A statue of St. John the Evangelist in front of a large red brick church with two towers.

Portsmouth City Centre

Portsmouth City Centre is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Portsmouth Guildhall and New Theatre Royal while in the area.

A waterfront building named 'The Still & West' with a stone pathway leading to the water.

Old Portsmouth

You'll enjoy the monuments and historical sites in Old Portsmouth. You might want to make time for a stop at Square Tower or Round Tower.

Portsea

While Portsea isn't home to many top sights, Mary Rose Museum and Gunwharf Quays are some notable places to visit nearby.

North End

While there might not be top attractions in North End, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Portsmouth International Port and Charles Dickens Birthplace.

Day trip destinations from Portsmouth

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Gosport

Frequently asked questions

Is Portsmouth worth visiting?
Whether you're coming to experience the cultural hotspots and local charm or try unique foods and explore in nature, there's no shortage of things to do in Portsmouth.
How do I spend a day in Portsmouth?
When you've checked off leading attractions like West Wittering Beach and Mary Rose Museum, spend some time exploring Portsmouth's shopping and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Portsmouth?
You can't go home without checking out West Wittering Beach, rated the top tourist attraction in Portsmouth.
Is three days enough to stay in Portsmouth?
Three days in Portsmouth is enough to visit the city's main attractions. Many guests spend two days on average. Mary Rose Museum, Clarence Pier and Southsea Beach are among the top-rated sights. Want to see more? Hang around a little longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Southampton.
Is Portsmouth a walkable city?
Some top attractions in Portsmouth, like Mary Rose Museum and Clarence Pier, are within walking distance. You can also discover several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Just 2 kilometers from the city centre of Portsmouth is Southsea and Portsmouth City Centre is 0.16 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Portsmouth with kids?
If you are after sights and activities for all of your group, check out these awesome ideas for what to do in Portsmouth with kids.
What to do in Portsmouth for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Portsmouth, with activities for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Forelands Beach or Sally Port.
Are there free things to do in Portsmouth?
One of the best ways to discover free things to do in Portsmouth is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on vibrant neighbourhoods, parks and other attractions you can experience without reaching for your wallet. Southsea Beach is one sight that doesn't have an entrance fee.