5 Days of Adventure in Portsmouth, UK

Discover the maritime charm of Portsmouth: where history and modernity coexist.

22 April 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrive in Portsmouth

  • Check in to The Clarence Hotel, located in the vibrant Southsea area of Portsmouth.
  • Stroll along the seafront promenade, taking in the views of the Solent and the Isle of Wight.
  • Visit the iconic Spinnaker Tower for panoramic views of the city and surrounding area.
  • Enjoy a late lunch at Pie & Vinyl, a quirky eatery serving homemade pies and vinyl records.
  • Explore the historic Mary Rose Museum, housing the remains of Henry VIII's flagship.
Day 2

Naval History

  • Take a guided tour of HMS Victory, Lord Nelson's flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar.
  • Visit the Royal Navy Submarine Museum to learn about the history of submarines.
  • Stop by the Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower to see weapons and ammunition used by the Royal Navy.
  • Enjoy fish and chips at The Fisherman's Kitchen, a popular seafood restaurant in Old Portsmouth.
  • End the day with a sunset walk to the historic Portsmouth Harbour Lighthouse.
Day 3

Art and Culture

  • Explore the contemporary art at the Aspex Gallery, showcasing local and international artists.
  • Visit the Portsmouth Museum to learn about the city's history and culture.
  • Enjoy a tea and cake break at the Tenth Hole Cafe, a vintage-style cafe in Southsea.
  • Take a tour of the Portsmouth Cathedral, featuring stunning stained glass and Gothic architecture.
  • Catch a show at the Kings Theatre, a historic venue hosting a variety of performances.
Day 4

Island Escape

  • Take a ferry to the Isle of Wight, just a short ride from Portsmouth.
  • Visit Osborne House, the former holiday home of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.
  • Stroll along the stunning Ventnor Beach and explore the Botanic Garden.
  • Try the local specialty, Garlic Mushrooms, at The Bluebells Cafe in Shanklin.
  • Return to Portsmouth for a cocktail at the oh-so-trendy Becketts Southsea bar.
Day 5

Market and Shopping

  • Explore the Southsea Shopping District, home to independent shops and cafes.
  • Visit the Portsmouth Guildhall for live music and events.
  • Discover local crafts and produce at the regular Farmers Market.
  • Have lunch at The Garage Lounge, a quirky restaurant serving a variety of international dishes.
  • End the day with a trip to the Skydome Cinema, the perfect way to relax before heading home.

Length of stay

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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

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Portsmouth in 2 Days: History, Art & Seafood

Portsmouth offers a rich history to explore, from the historic dockyard that houses the HMS Victory, the flagship of Lord Nelson, to the 800-year-old naval port. Additionally, the city offers a variety of museums, art galleries, and lively shopping districts, such as Gunwharf Quays. Visitors can also immerse themselves in the dynamic atmosphere of Southsea, with its restaurants, cafes and parks, as well as the stunning views of the harbor and the Isle of Wight.

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.

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 in Two Days: A Seaside Adventure

Experience the charm of Portsmouth without breaking the bank. A stroll along Southsea beach is an affordable and enjoyable way to soak up the maritime ambiance of this coastal city. Tour the historic dockyards and enjoy the stunning views of the Solent from the top of the Spinnaker Tower for free.