Things to do in Portsmouth

Activities, attractions and tours

Portsmouth
Portsmouth
Portsmouth
Royal Marines Museum showing art and interior views
Gunwharf Quays

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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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Gunwharf Quays showing modern architecture and a river or creek

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

3. Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

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Portsmouth Historic Dockyard showing a marina

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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HMS Victory featuring heritage elements and a statue or sculpture

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

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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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.

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

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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Southsea Castle showing a lighthouse, château or palace and heritage elements

What to do in Portsmouth


Popular places to visit

Areas of Portsmouth

Royal Marines Museum which includes heritage elements

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.

Southsea
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Portsmouth City Centre

4/5(67 area reviews)

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.

Portsmouth City Centre
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Cosham

4/5(110 area reviews)

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

Cosham
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Old Portsmouth

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

Old Portsmouth
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Buckland

While Buckland may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Portsmouth International Port and Portsmouth Guildhall.

Buckland