Visit Portsmouth to see all things nautical. Big boats dating back to Nelson and Tudor times are moored up for all to see at the historic naval dockyards. Portsmouth’s museums are very much in keeping with its maritime theme, covering Royal Marine history, D-Day, and sealife. Trace Henry VIII’s steps to Southsea Castle where he watched his beloved Mary Rose sink beneath the waves, little did he know she would be home and dry for all to see today. This Hampshire city has a few surprises too. With its two cathedrals, strange nickname (Pompey) and its location being perched on an island, Portsmouth is a great place to be.
Places to visit in Portsmouth
Investigate the origins of Sherlock Holmes at Portsmouth Museum
Discover more about the creator of the iconic detective Sherlock Holmes at Portsmouth Museum.
Location: Portsmouth, Hampshire
Take a step back in time in Southsea
From the Tudor ramparts of Henry VIII's Southsea Castle, to The D-Day Story, there's plenty of Portsmouth’s heritage for you to explore in the seaside town of Southsea.
Location: Portsmouth, Hampshire
Picnic within the walls of Portchester Castle
Surround yourself with thousands of years of history as you enjoy a picnic in the grounds of Portchester Castle.
Location: Portsmouth, Hampshire
Have a frightful Halloween with Dark Encounters
Discover a spookier side of Portsmouth on a ghost walk around some of the most haunted spots in the city.
Location: Portsmouth, Hampshire
Meet Normandy veterans at The D-Day Story
Visit The D-Day Story in Portsmouth and you may be able to meet some of the men and women who took part in the Normandy Landings.
Location: Portsmouth, Hampshire
Experience the life of a Royal Marine
Train yourself to the peak of physical fitness at an outdoor assault course and see if you've got what it takes, at the Royal Marines Museum.
Location: Portsmouth, Hampshire
Rainy Day Activities: Treat the kids at Portsmouth's Action Stations
Let your kids loose on this indoor playground, packed with exciting activities including a ninja course and the UK's tallest indoor climbing tower.
Location: Portsmouth, Hampshire
Strap on your sea legs on a Harbour tour
Get closer than ever to the Royal Navy's ships on a 45 minute guided boat tour of Portsmouth Harbour.
Location: Portsmouth, Hampshire
Uncover 900 years of horrible history on the Spice Island Ghost Walk
When things go bump in the night, do you investigate rather than hide under the covers? If that’s the case then you’ll love the hair-raising thrills of a paranormal walk around Portsmouth’s old city.
Location: Portsmouth , Hampshire
Enjoy a seafaring adventure at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
With maritime attractions that span 800 years, there's plenty to pack into a short break to this historic waterfront city.
Location: Portsmouth, Hampshire
Step on board HMS M.33, a small ship with a big history
Visit Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard this summer and you'll find a new addition to its amazing maritime collection.
Location: Portsmouth, Hampshire
Sample local craft beers brewed in Henry VIII's Southsea Castle
Discover the taste of Southsea Brewing Co., brewed in Southsea Castle's micro-brewery.
Location: Portsmouth, Hampshire