3 Days of Adventure in Portsmouth, UK

Discover the maritime past and vibrant present of Portsmouth, UK.

22 April 2023

Portsmouth, located on the southern coast of England, is a vibrant city steeped in naval history. As a tourist, you can explore historical landmarks such as the HMS Victory or the Mary Rose Museum, and indulge in fresh seafood at the bustling waterfront. Additionally, you can take a stroll around the scenic Old Portsmouth neighborhood or visit the iconic Spinnaker Tower for breathtaking views of the city.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Sea, Shops, and Seafood

  • Check-in at the boutique Florence House Hotel, a charming Georgian townhouse near the seafront with cozy rooms and artful decor.
  • Walk along the promenade to the historic Portsmouth Dockyard, home to the famous ship HMS Victory and the impressive Mary Rose Museum.
  • Take a break at Gunwharf Quays, a stylish shopping and dining destination with over 90 designer stores, restaurants, and a cinema.
  • Indulge in the local seafood at The Still & West, a waterside pub with stunning views of the harbor, and try the crab croquettes and fish and chips.
  • End the evening at The Wedgewood Rooms, a lively music venue and nightclub that hosts eclectic acts from indie bands to stand-up comedians.
Day 2

Castles, Cakes, and Cocktails

  • Have a hearty breakfast at The Tenth Hole Cafe, a retro-style tearoom famous for its decadent cakes and pastries.
  • Visit the iconic Spinnaker Tower, a 170-meter-high observation deck with dazzling panoramas of the city and the Solent.
  • Explore the medieval fortress of Southsea Castle, built by Henry VIII to defend the coast from invaders, and admire the sea views from the battlements.
  • Treat yourself to a vintage-inspired afternoon tea at The Queens Hotel, a grand Victorian landmark with ornate architecture and a timeless ambiance.
  • Sip some artisan cocktails at The Merchant House, a speakeasy-style bar with a vast selection of spirits and a cozy atmosphere.
Day 3

Museums, Markets, and Music

  • Start the day with a breakfast at Garage Lounge, a quirky cafe housed in a former garage that serves tasty coffee, sandwiches, and cakes.
  • Discover the fascinating collections of the Portsmouth Museum, which feature local history, art, and culture, including the iconic Sherlock Holmes bust.
  • Stroll around the bustling Portsmouth Market, a vibrant indoor market that sells everything from fresh produce, vintage fashion, books, and crafts.
  • Go to the Portsmouth Guildhall, a legendary venue that has hosted rock and pop legends like The Who, Rolling Stones, and David Bowie, and catch a gig or an event.
  • Have a farewell dinner at 36 On The Quay, a top-rated restaurant that serves modern British cuisine with a focus on seafood, with elegant decor and lovely views of the harbor.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Portsmouth by plane is to fly into either Southampton Airport or Gatwick Airport, and take a train or bus to Portsmouth. From Southampton Airport, you can take a train to Portsmouth and Southsea Station, which takes about 30 minutes. From Gatwick Airport, you can take a train to Portsmouth and Southsea Station or a National Express bus to Portsmouth, which takes about 2 hours.

Car

The best way to get to Portsmouth by car is to take the A3(M) or M27, depending on where you are coming from. From London, take the M25, then the M3, and then the A3(M). From Southampton, take the M27 and then the A27 towards Portsmouth.

Train

The best way to get to Portsmouth by train is to take a direct train to Portsmouth and Southsea Station. You can catch a direct train from London Waterloo, which takes about 90 minutes. There are also direct trains from Southampton, Brighton, and Bristol.

Boat

The best way to get to Portsmouth by boat is to take a ferry from either Jersey, Guernsey, or St. Malo. There are also cruises that stop in Portsmouth, such as P&O Cruises and Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.

Bus

The best way to get to Portsmouth by bus is to take a National Express coach from London Victoria Coach Station, which takes about 2 hours. There are also coaches from Bristol, Birmingham, and Manchester.

Destination

Portsmouth

If you're looking for a coastal city with all the charm of a seaside postcard but with drastically less seagull poop, look no further than Portsmouth. It may just be the best place to experience both British history and fish and chips in equal measure.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

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More travel plans

5 Days of Adventure in Portsmouth, UK

Visiting Portsmouth, tourists can expect a range of activities and attractions to explore. History enthusiasts can explore the city's naval heritage at the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and The Mary Rose Museum. Experience the modern attractions such as Gunwharf Quays, the Spinnaker Tower, and the bustling Southsea beach.

A Romantic 4-Day Getaway to Portsmouth, UK

Portsmouth, located along the southern coast of England, is an excellent destination for a romantic getaway. Couples can take a stroll along the seafront and admire views of the Solent, spend a day exploring the historic dockyard, or relax with a picnic in the picturesque Southsea Common. There are plenty of cozy cafes and restaurants serving delicious seafood and other local delicacies to make the trip even more special.

Portsmouth's Budget-Friendly Day Trip Guide

Portsmouth, dubbed as the birthplace of Charles Dickens, is a delightful coastal town well-suited for on a limited budget travel. Notable landmarks include the iconic HMS Victory and the historic Portsmouth Dockyard set on the picturesque coastline. Foodies can enjoy a range of fish and chips shops and cafes, while free activities such as visiting museums and strolling along the white cliffs provide a memorable experience.

Portsmouth Unwound: A Fun 3-Day Budget Trip

Portsmouth offers an incredible experience for budget travelers on a limited budget. Visitors can explore many of the city's historic landmarks for free, including the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and the Mary Rose Museum. Additionally, there are plenty of affordable accommodations, restaurants, and public transportation options to make traveling budget-friendly.