Portsmouth, the great waterfront city, has miles of sea views and centuries of history.
With more than 800 years of naval history, Portsmouth’s world renowned Historic Dockyard is a must-see. Featuring HMS Victory, The Mary Rose Museum and HMS Warrior 1860, along with the National Museum of the Royal Navy and Action Stations, this attraction offers a full day’s visit.
A brand new Mary Rose Museum will open early 2013, reuniting the Mary Rose hull together with her collection of artefacts, placed in context, in a brand new boat shaped Museum.
Enjoy spectacular views from the iconic Spinnaker Tower, soaring 170 metres above Portsmouth Harbour and the Solent, taller than the London Eye, Blackpool Tower and Big Ben!
Visit Gunwharf Quays and shop at over 90 designer outlets then enjoy a meal by the sea at one of 30 cosmopolitan bars, restaurants and coffee shops. Soak up the history with a walk along Portsmouth’s impressive waterfront, join a guided walk or self-guide yourself along the Millennium Promenade, taking in the Camber Dock, Round Tower and Square Tower.
Continue along the seafront to find green spaces, impressive gardens and a range of activities. Attractions include the D-Day Museum – relating the story of the Normandy landings, Southsea Castle – built by Henry VIII, Blue Reef Aquarium and the Royal Marines Museum.
For literary fans, Portsmouth is a surprising destination. The great author Charles Dickens was born in Portsmouth and his birthplace is preserved as a fascinating museum. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle created his famous character Sherlock Holmes whilst residing in Portsmouth and the city is now home to a large collection of Conan Doyle memorabilia, on display as ‘A Study in Sherlock’ exhibition at the City Museum
Portsmouth also has a lively and diverse cultural scene. All year round there are city wide events and live entertainment – find live music, theatre and comedy in Portsmouth Guildhall, Kings Theatre and New Theatre Royal along with smaller independent venues.