Portsmouth - Discovering United Kingdom

Travelling to Portsmouth

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Portsmouth, a pretty good destination in United Kingdom (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Portsmouth and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Portsmouth, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through United Kingdom, here's everything to know about Portsmouth for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Portsmouth

Portsmouth is a historic naval city located in the county of Hampshire, southern England, United Kingdom. It is situated on the south coast of England, overlooking the English Channel. With a population of approximately 250,000 people, it is the second-largest city in the county after Southampton. Portsmouth is best known for its naval heritage, as it was the home of the Royal Navy for centuries. It is also famous for its many historic landmarks, museums, and galleries, as well as its excellent shopping and dining options. Some popular attractions in Portsmouth include the historic Dockyard, the Mary Rose Museum, the Spinnaker Tower, and the D-Day Museum and Overlord Embroidery.

What to visit in Portsmouth

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Portsmouth, United Kingdom and some information about each: 1. Portsmouth Historic Dockyard - The historic dockyard is home to HMS Victory, the ship that Lord Admiral Nelson commanded during the Battle of Trafalgar. It's also home to the Mary Rose Museum, which houses the remains of a Tudor warship that sank in the Solent in 1545.
2. Spinnaker Tower - The Spinnaker Tower is a 170-meter tall observation tower that provides panoramic views of Portsmouth Harbour, the Isle of Wight, and the surrounding countryside.
3. Southsea Castle - Southsea Castle was built by Henry VIII and played an important role in defending Portsmouth against sea attacks. Visitors can explore the castle and learn about its history.
4. Charles Dickens' Birthplace Museum - This museum is housed in the birthplace of the famous author and provides a glimpse into his life and work.
5. D-Day Museum - The D-Day Museum commemorates the Allied forces' landings in Normandy during World War II. Visitors can learn about the preparations for D-Day and the experiences of those who took part.
6. Royal Navy Submarine Museum - The museum is devoted to the history and technology of submarines. Visitors can explore the submarine HMS Alliance and learn about life aboard a submarine.
7. Portsmouth Cathedral - This historic cathedral is the mother church of the Diocese of Portsmouth and the seat of the Bishop of Portsmouth. It has a long and interesting history and is known for its beautiful architecture.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in United Kingdom, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Portsmouth.

When to go on holiday to Portsmouth

The best time to visit Portsmouth is during the summer months of June to August, when the weather is warmer and the days are longer. During this time, you can take advantage of outdoor activities such as sightseeing, visiting the beaches, and exploring the city's attractions. However, keep in mind that this is peak tourist season, so accommodations and popular sites may be more crowded and prices may be higher. Spring and early autumn are also good times to visit Portsmouth, with mild weather and fewer crowds. The winter months can be cold and rainy, but there are still indoor attractions such as museums and galleries that you can visit.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Portsmouth

There are a few ways to get to Portsmouth, depending on your starting location and travel preferences. Here are some options: - By plane: The closest airport to Portsmouth is Southampton Airport, which is about 30 miles away. From there, you can take a train or a taxi to Portsmouth. Alternatively, you can fly into London's Heathrow, Gatwick, or Stansted airports, which are all about 2-3 hours away by train or bus.
- By train: Portsmouth has two train stations, Portsmouth Harbour and Portsmouth & Southsea, which are both in the city center. There are regular trains from London Waterloo, Southampton, Brighton, and other cities in the UK. You can check schedules and buy tickets on the National Rail website.
- By bus: There are several coach companies that operate services to Portsmouth, including National Express and Megabus. The bus station is next to the train station in the city center.
- By car: If you are driving, Portsmouth is easily accessible via the M27 motorway. There are several car parks in the city center, including one at the Gunwharf Quays shopping center.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Portsmouth, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Portsmouth

Sure, here are some typical foods from Portsmouth (United Kingdom) with a short description for each of them: 1. Fish and Chips - This is a classic British dish consisting of battered and deep-fried fish (usually cod or haddock) served with chips (thick-cut French fries).
2. Pie and Mash - This is a traditional British dish that consists of a meat pie (usually made with beef or lamb) served with mashed potatoes and gravy.
3. Fry-Up - Also known as a Full English Breakfast, this is a hearty breakfast consisting of eggs, bacon, sausage, black pudding, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, and toast.
4. Ploughman's Lunch - This is a cold meal typically consisting of bread, cheese, pickles, and sometimes ham or other cold meats.
5. Roast dinner - This is a classic British Sunday meal consisting of a roasted meat (usually beef, pork, lamb or chicken), roast potatoes, vegetables, and gravy.
6. Jugged Hare - This is a traditional British dish that consists of hare (rabbit) stewed in a rich, spiced sauce.
7. Bubble and Squeak - This is a dish made with leftover boiled vegetables, such as potatoes and cabbage, that are mashed together and fried until crispy.
8. Toad in the Hole - This dish consists of sausages cooked in a batter made of flour, eggs, and milk, then baked until puffed and golden.
9. Shepherds Pie - This is a classic British dish consisting of minced lamb (or beef), vegetables, and mashed potatoes baked in a casserole dish until golden and crispy on top.
You can find general info about typical foods in United Kingdom here.

Is Portsmouth an expensive destination for tourists?

Portsmouth can be considered a mid-range to slightly expensive destination for tourists in the United Kingdom. Accommodation prices and dining out can be pricey, especially during peak travel seasons. However, there are plenty of affordable options for those on a budget, such as local pubs and street food markets. Additionally, there are many free or low-cost attractions in Portsmouth, such as exploring the city's historic naval heritage or taking a stroll along Southsea beach.

Where to find accomodation in Portsmouth

In Portsmouth, some of the best areas to find accommodation are: 1. Southsea: This is a popular area that is close to the beach, shops, and restaurants. It is well-connected by public transport and is a great choice for families.
2. Old Portsmouth: Old Portsmouth is a historic area that offers beautiful views and great restaurants. It is close to the harbor and is a good choice for those interested in exploring Portsmouth's naval history.
3. Gunwharf Quays: This is a popular area with a lot of things to do, including shopping, dining, and entertainment. It is close to the harbor and is a great choice for those who want to be in the heart of the action.
4. Portsmouth City Centre: This area is close to all of Portsmouth's main attractions, including the Historic Dockyard, the Spinnaker Tower, and the Guildhall. It is a good choice for those who want to be in the center of the city.
You can check hotel prices at Portsmouth here:
Booking.com

Is Portsmouth a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Portsmouth is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, like any other tourist destination, it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety, especially at night and in busy areas. It is recommended that visitors stay in well-lit areas, avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, and keep an eye on their belongings. It is also advisable to be aware of any local customs or safety concerns and to follow the advice of local authorities.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in United Kingdom here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Portsmouth.

What type of travelers will enjoy Portsmouth the most?

Portsmouth is a city that offers something for everyone, but it may be particularly enjoyable for history buffs, naval enthusiasts and families. Here is more information: - History buffs: Portsmouth is home to the Historic Dockyard, which is a great place to explore the history of the British Navy. You can visit the HMS Victory and the Mary Rose Museum, which is an award-winning museum dedicated to the Tudor warship that sank in the Solent in 1545. There are other historical attractions, such as the Spinnaker Tower and the Portsmouth Museum.
- Naval enthusiasts: Portsmouth has a long and proud naval history and the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is a must-visit. You can see the HMS Victory, which was Lord Nelson's flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar, and the HMS Warrior, which was Britain's first ironclad battleship. There is also the Royal Marines Museum and the Submarine Museum.
- Families: There are several family-friendly attractions in Portsmouth, including the Blue Reef Aquarium, Gunwharf Quays, and Southsea Castle. You can also take a boat trip to the Isle of Wight, which is just a short ferry ride away.
- Young people looking for fun: Portsmouth has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs in the Southsea area. Gunwharf Quays is also a popular shopping and dining destination.
- Couples: Portsmouth has some beautiful waterfront areas, including Old Portsmouth and Gunwharf Quays, which are great places to stroll and enjoy a romantic dinner overlooking the sea. There are also several spas and salons that offer couples treatments.

How to get around Portsmouth

In Portsmouth, you can move around using various forms of transportation, such as buses, trains, taxis, and even ferries. The city has a well-connected public transportation system, with several bus routes and train stations linking different parts of the town. Additionally, you can also use a bicycle or simply walk around the city, as many attractions and landmarks are within walking distance of each other.

What to see around Portsmouth

Here are some places to visit in a day trip from Portsmouth: 1. Winchester: Visit the beautiful Winchester Cathedral, stroll through the charming Winchester City Centre, and learn about the city's history at the Winchester City Museum.
2. Southampton: Explore the Southampton Old Town, visit the SeaCity Museum, and enjoy the waterfront views at Ocean Village.
3. The New Forest National Park: Enjoy the wilderness, go for a hike, and explore quaint villages such as Beaulieu and Brockenhurst.
4. Chichester: Visit the Chichester Cathedral, explore the historic Chichester City Centre, and walk through the beautiful Bishop's Palace Gardens.
5. Isle of Wight: Take a ferry to the Isle of Wight and visit attractions such as the Osborne House, the Needles Park, and the Blackgang Chine.
6. Arundel: Visit the Arundel Castle, stroll through the picturesque Arundel Town, and explore the Arundel Wetland Centre.
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