What To See In Portsmouth
Portsmouth is a bustling harbour city, with so much to see and do. If you’re short on time and want to make the most of your visit, these are the top places we think Portsmouth has to offer. Brace yourself for a trip through some of England’s most exciting bits of history.
Mary Rose Museum
This special museum houses the legendary Mary Rose, one of the first ships which were able to fire broadside and one of King Henry VIII’s favourite ships. After she sank in 1545, many thought this ship was lost forever.
But a dedicated 34-year long conservation project has successfully brought much of the ship and its artifacts back up to the surface where they can be viewed by the general public.
Visit Google Maps here for driving directions and more information about the Mary Rose Museum.
HMS Victory
Situated in the historic dockyard, the HMS Victory is best known for her role in the Battle of Trafalgar as well as leading fleets in the American War of Independence and the French Revolutionary War. In 1922, the ship was placed on the dry dock at Portsmouth, to be visited by millions of people each year.
Interestingly, the ship that you see these days is a far cry from what Nelson would’ve known, due to the various restoration projects that have happened over her long life.
Visit Google Maps here for driving directions and more information about the HMS Victory.
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
While you’re visiting the HMS Victory, you should take a walk around the dockyard as a whole. Featuring several famous ships such as HMS Warrior 1860 and the only remaining WWII-era British submarine.
There are tours daily, and the National Museum Royal Navy Portsmouth, and the Jutland Exhibition. The dockyard is situated in what is currently a working naval base, meaning this is one of the few places in the world where you can see the past, present, and future of maritime brilliance.
Spinnaker Tower
Standing at a whopping 170-metres tall, Spinnaker Tower is a must for anyone visiting Portsmouth. Offering panoramic views for 23-miles over Portsmouth Harbour and the surrounding areas. There is a high-speed lift up to the top and three viewing takes to really take in those views.
If you’re feeling brave you can also face the Sky Walk, a glass-bottomed deck 100 metres above sea level. But that’s not all. There are also informative touchscreen displays, virtual reality simulations, and the fantastic Sky Garden where you can enjoy a coffee or glass of bubbly with an incredible view.
Visit Google Maps here for driving directions and more information about the Spinnaker Tower.
The D-Day Story
This museum showcases the stories of the people behind D-Day. With over 10,000 items all collected and preserved to tell this amazing tale. Initially a museum with a military focus, it has now shifted to a more personal level – really paying tribute to the brave men and women involved in the conflict.
They have exhibitions regularly, as well as workshops and other activities, all designed to bring the D-Day story into the modern era, giving people a real sense of what it would have been like.
Visit Google Maps here for driving directions and more information about The D-Day Story.
Gunwharf Quays
Home to over 90 famous brands and outlet stores, all offering up to 60% off the regular retail price. No trip to Portsmouth is complete without visiting this shopping complex.
If you need to give your credit card a break then you’ll find any number of bars, cafés, and restaurants to wet your whistle and fill your stomach. There is also a Vue Cinema, Hollywood Bowl, nightclub, gallery, and casino. Something for everyone!
Visit Google Maps here for driving directions and more information about the Gunwharf Quays.
Other Information About Portsmouth
Places To Stay – 7 Top Rated Accommodations in Portsmouth
Where To Eat – 5 Best British Restaurants in Portsmouth
Fun Fact – 11 Fascinating Facts About Portsmouth