UK Home » Destinations » Portsmouth Guide »
Fresh seafood, Portsmouth beach and harbour

Portsmouth Destination Guide

Located on the coast of Hampshire, Portsmouth offers miles of waterfront together with a mix of historical, cultural and sightseeing opportunities. A lively arts scene, fine dining and specialist shopping makes Portsmouth an ideal destination.

Blue Reef Aquarium
Blue Reef Aquarium

Family Fun & Local Attractions

The Blue Reef Aquarium in Southsea, was voted Visitor Attraction of the Year by Tourism South East. It is situated on Clarence Esplanade, between the two piers overlooking the Solent. The aquarium houses sea life ranging from local marine species, to shoals of tropical fish in a gigantic ocean display, complete with underwater tunnel. The Pyramids Centre is a recreational area that allows you to escape to a unique water and tropical atmosphere. The complex houses an indoor swimming pool with a wave machine and waterslides.

HMS Victory, Nelson's famous flasgship
HMS Victory, Nelson's famous flagship

Fascinating History

Discover the world famous historic ships – HMS Victory, the Mary Rose and HMS Warrior 1860 that have shaped British history at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Home of the Royal Navy, other attractions include The Royal Naval Museum and the RN Submarine Museum.

Portsmouth is the birthplace of Charles Dickens, his house in Old Commercial Road is now preserved as a museum furnished in the style of 1809. The house includes an exhibition room displaying memorabilia and prints illustrating Dickens life and works.

Seafood at Gunwharf Quays
Seafood at Gunwharf Quays

Fine Dining

There are two main eating areas in Portsmouth - the city centre and Gunwarf Quays. The city offers a complete range of good eating, from restaurants with panoramic views to intimate bistros, offering the full spectrum of international cuisine.

Worlds larger glass floor at the top of Spinnaker Tower
Worlds larger glass floor at the top of Spinnaker Tower

Out & About

In the centre of Portsmouth, the Cascades Shopping Centre offers high street names such as Marks & Spencer, H&M, Woolworths and BHS.

Alternatively find some designer bargains at Gunwarf Quays, where you will find more than 90 designer outlet stores with an incredible range of fashion and leisurewear, household goods and toys, with savings up to 70% off high street prices.

» Portsmouth Tourism Website (Link opens in a new window)

Make a booking
Already made a booking?
Change contact details here
For other changes call 0845 609 1024
Where is Portsmouth?
Essential Info
Currency
The currency in the UK is sterling. There is a bureau de change onboard
Driving
Driving is on the left hand side
Parking
Most parking in Portsmouth is multi-storey or surface pay and display car parks
Shopping
Shopping in Portsmouth is divided into two main areas, the City Centre and Gunwarf Quays, a designer outlet
Public Holidays
2008 UK Public Holidays:
New Years Day (1st Jan)
Good Friday (21st March)
Easter Monday (24th March)
May Day (5th May)
Spring Bank Holiday (25th May)
Christmas Day (25th Dec)
Boxing Day (26th Dec)
Language
English
Climate
The climate in Portsmouth is generally mild. During the summer months there are many fine and sunny days
Camping/Caravanning
Condor Ferries offer the facility of carrying accompanied caravans. Caravans can be booked directly with Condor Ferries
Voltage
Electricity is supplied at 240 volts (50 hertz). An adapter is needed if travelling from Continental Europe or further afield