Things to do in Portsmouth on a two-day coastal getaway

Start your adventure at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, the cradle of the city’s maritime heritage. It’s free to walk around the docks, getting up close with its most famous vessels: you’ll spy HMS Victory, which dates back to 1759, as well as HMS Warrior (1860) and HMS Alliance (1945). Need some wind in your sails? For coffee and brunch with harbour views, head to Boathouse 4 restaurant.  

Dating back to 1511, the Mary Rose was the star of the Tudor fleet – and after being recovered from a wreck she now beautifully preserved in a dedicated museum. Step on board to discover the world’s largest collection of Tudor treasures, and to discover what life was like aboard Henry VIII’s favourite warship – and the battles in which she fought. Don’t miss the “Dive the Mary Rose 4D” experience, a multi-sensory show that brings the ship’s discovery, excavation and recovery to life. 

Soaring 170 metres above Portsmouth, the Spinnaker Tower is its most famous landmark – and a spectacular setting for afternoon tea. With the city and Solent at your feet, you’ll feast on scones and sweet treats – and maybe a champagne or a cocktail, too. Or if you fancy something more thrilling, the tower also hosts abseiling experiences: you’ll step over the edge to rappel solo down 100 metres, with 360º views that’ll make you quake. So, tea or terror? You decide…  

This evening, head to Portsmouth’s Wedgewood Rooms to catch a stand-up comedy night: the likes of Lee Evans, Bill Bailey and Jo Brand have played at this club, and it doubles as a venue for local live music too. Rock, soul, pop and dubstep fill its programme, alongside weekly comedy nights and stand-up gigs. Check listings ahead of your trip as acts vary nightly. 

Just a short walk from the beach and a short drive from the Historic Dockyard, with views over the Solent, this Grade II listed Edwardian hotel is another icon of Portsmouth’s seafront – and it’s your home for tonight. Head to Dukes Bar for a late supper and a nightcap; its signature cocktails include Sabbia, a medley of rum, pineapple, fresh ginger and raspberry jam. 

Shake off last night’s excesses with a 20-minute walk to Hotwalls Studios and a strong coffee (and bacon bap?) at its café The Canteen. Hotwalls’ cluster of independent artists’ studios features ceramicists, painters, jewellers and more – with the opportunity to see them at work and buy pieces directly from the people who made them. The perfect place to pick up a unique Portsmouth souvenir and meet local makers in their studios.  

Don’t just admire the beautiful stretch of water between Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight – get on it! On Board runs thrilling RIB cruises on the Solent from Gunwharf Quays. Buckle up for a white-knuckle ride to the Mary Rose wreck site or the Solent Forts, with an expert skipper at the helm. Its 30-and 40-minute cruises depart throughout the day, from around 12pm.  

All Saints, Calvin Klein, Kurt Geiger, Tommy Hilfiger – you’ll find them all at Gunwharf Quays. This discount designer outlet offers big savings on some of the world’s best-loved designer fashion, homeware and beauty brands, as well as 30 dining options for lunch. It puts more than 90 brands at your fingertips, with up to 60% off RRP – and if you want to shake up your style, there’s even a bespoke personal shopping service.  

Take an immersive journey through one of World War II’s most pivotal moments at The D-Day Story, a fully accessible attraction which brings the Normandy Landings to life. You’ll travel back to June 1944, to discover the incredible bravery and ingenuity behind the events that marked a key turning point in the war – hearing personal stories, exploring military vehicles, and seeing the extraordinary “Overlord Embroidery” tapestry up-close.  

Southsea Castle’s stone ramparts and cannon-lined defences made it one of the Tudors’ most impressive fortresses, though Henry VIII’s much-feared invasion never actually transpired. You can explore it all on a guided tour, or sneak off for a solo adventure. Look out for spectacular views over the Solent, and summertime events in the courtyard – such as the Champagne Bar and Victorious Festival (August).